Hull High School
Student Course Expectations
2011-2012
Baseball in Literature Mr. Cunningham 3 credits
Course Overview
This course will study the vibrant cultural meaning of baseball in the United States, from the origin of professional leagues in the late 19th century to the introduction of free agency and the increasing nature of commercial competition which currently exists. Through literary readings, and online discussions covering the history of baseball and the examination of literary texts the sport inspires, students will delve into issues of American identity and discover how sport can be a manifestation of society as well as a mechanism for change.
Course Objectives
Students will write effectively for a variety of purposes.
Students will gain knowledge and usage of literary terms
Students will present information and ideas fluently and comfortably before an audience
Students will read actively and critically.
Course Content
Required Writing
Essays and journal entries based on stories and selected literary works
Research based essays
Course Evaluation Criteria
Specific percentages will be announced when assignments are given.
Course Policies
Effort: Never has anyone who really tried received a failing grade in one of my classes, and most who try their best didn't get below a 'C'. But how do you define trying? The simplest way is this: putting forth your absolute best work possible everyday. Not just at the end of the term, not just at the beginning, but always. It means behaving in class, coming after school for extra help when necessary, and paying attention to what's going on
Homework: Some nights, you'll have something to do, oftentimes reading assignments for class the next day. If you are absent the day an assignment is due, I expect it complete the day you return. Here's the real point: do your homework!!
If you are absent, it is up to you to find out what you missed while you were not in class. While your friends may be able to let you know, it is usually best to check with me or on the web site for missing work. Unfortunately, I don't have time to track everyone down and remind you about missing work; if it is not completed in an appropriate time frame, it will be recorded as a '0'.
Discussions: Much of class time is devoted to discussions about many different topics. NEVER be afraid to say something you think or feel related to what we are talking about. This year, I'm going to be asking quite often what you think, and why you think what you do. Please speak your mind, and think for yourself; you don't always have to agree with your classmates (or me for that matter!).
Plagiarism: Defined in the American Heritage Dictionary as, "To steal and use (the ideas or writings of another) as one's own." Plagiarism is not allowed in any endeavor that you undertake in this class: homework, tests, papers, projects, etc. All sources must be documented, and available for inspection if requested. Any assignment plagiarized will be given an automatic '0' and further disciplinary action may result.
Grades: Please see me either before or after school to check your grade status. While there is usually not time during class to discuss your current grade, I am more than happy to schedule time outside of class for you to keep up with your progress.
Tentative Schedule for (subject to change with or without notice!):
Each topic area will have a variety of assignments and assessments during the course of the term.
September
· Baseball: The Rules of the Game (Class discussion)
· Ken Burns Opening for Baseball (Video)
· Wait Till Next Year (Short Story)
· The Web of the Game (Short Story)
· Who’s on First (Short Video)
October
· The Thrill of the Grass (Short Story)
· Shoeless Joe (Novel)
· Ken Burns: Chicago Blacksox (Video)
· Baseball Poetry
· The Catch (Short Story)
· Roger Maris (Short Story)
November
· Casey at the Bat (Short story)
· Yogi (Short Story)
· The Natural (Novel)
December
· 2004 (Video)
· Excepts from Faithful (Novel)
· The Greatest Season (Academic Essay)
· Jackie Robinson’s Legacy (Academic Essay)
· America’s Two Realms (Academic Essay)
· Back, Back, Back (Play)
January
· The Greatest Season (Academic Essay)
· Jackie Robinson’s Legacy (Academic Essay)
· America’s Two Realms (Academic Essay)
· Back, Back, Back (Play)
Student/Parent Acknowledgment
Your signature indicates that you understand the terms of these expectations sheets and know what is expected of you for the successful completion of Baseball in Literature. Please keep these sheets in your notebook and refer to them whenever you have any questions regarding the course.
Student Signature: _____________________________ Date:_____________________
Your signature indicates that you have had the opportunity to read these expectation sheets and discuss the expectations with your son or daughter. I thank you for your cooperation, and please do not hesitate to call me at the high school (781-925-3000 ex 2102) should you have any questions or concerns about your child's progress or if you would like to make an appointment with me.
Parent/Guardian Signature:_________________________ Date:___________________
Parent/Guardian email address: ______________________________________________
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