"Things do not change; we change" - Henry David Thoreau

Late work will be penalized. All work turned in late will be stamped with one frowny face for each day late, and it will lose one letter grade per frowny face. Moral: turn work in on time or your grade (and your morale) will suffer.

Because of the rigorous nature of this class, and because of our dependence on classroom discussion for understanding, all reading must be done on time. You are welcome to get started early on your reading, as all major texts have been indicated on this syllabus.

It is recommended that you purchase your own copies of all texts read in class. Although purchasing your own books is not required, students who have personal copies of texts are able to annotate directly on the page in the book and thus they already have an advantage. Check used bookstores and college bookstores to find less expensive used copies of books. All required reading will also be available to check out from your teacher.

Come on time to class. With so much to read and write this year, it is important that we use all of our time wisely. Do not make the class wait on you.

Be ready to speak. A large part of understanding and analyzing text is classroom discussion. You will be expected to participate in classroom discussion as well as in group discussion daily. You will also be expected to participate in spirit reading as the occasion requires.

1. Language as it characterizes its user

2. Language and its power to persuade

Keep up.

If you have a question, ask.

If you are having trouble, come talk to me.

If you need more clarification, come talk to me.

If you want to talk about ideas, come talk to me.

If you want a bit of extra practice, come talk to me.

Do you see a trend? Come talk to me if you have ANY questions, concerns, or difficulties.