Derek McKenzie

derek.mckenzie@rentonschools.us

Notebook Prompts

Course Information

Course Description: 

Welcome to our class! I am so excited to be your 10th grade Language Arts teacher. This is my first year at Hazen and I am honored to be a new member of this school community. This trimester we will be learning about a vast array of texts, from poetry to narratives to short stories. As we move through this work, we will engage in practices such as analysis, close reading, and effective discussion techniques, to name a few. 

Throughout this process, my hope is that you fine-tune your personal writing style and deepen your appreciation of discussing literature. I’m looking forward to getting to know you, your interests, and your goals for this trimester.

Course Objectives: 

This course is designed using the Washington State/Common Core Standards for English Language Arts. Students will be able to:

• read, analyze, and think critically about literary texts
• apply the writing process to communicate ideas effectively
• analyze an author’s craft and apply techniques to narrative writing
• engage in critical self-reflection and identity meaning-making through poetry
• engage in group discussions that are effective, inspiring, and collaborative
• speak clearly and persuasively

Grading Policy

Grading Scale

All texts will be provided in class, and online readings will be accessed here on Canvas.

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