ELA9

Syllabus Outline: Introduction to Literature

Course Overview

  • Course Title: Introduction to Literature
  • Grade Level: 9
  • Instructor: Paula Pulwicz
  • Contact Information: ppulwicz@gaflint.org

Course Objectives

  • Develop critical reading and analytical skills.
  • Explore various literary genres and their characteristics.
  • Enhance writing skills through literary analysis and creative responses.
  • Foster discussions on themes, motifs, and cultural contexts in literature.

Required Texts

  • A selection of novels, short stories, poetry, and plays (titles to be announced).
  • Supplementary readings and resources will be provided throughout the course.

Unit Schedule

  1. Week 1: Introduction to Literature and Literary Terms
  2. Unit 2: Short Stories – Analysis and Discussion, Introduction to Literary Criticism
  3. Unit 3: Poetry – Forms and Techniques
  4. Unit 4: Novels – Character and Plot Development
  5. Unit 5: Drama – Understanding Dialogue and Stage Directions
  6. Week 17: Literary Movements and Their Historical Contexts
  7. Unit 7: Thematic Analysis in Literature
  8. Week 25-26: Creative Writing Workshop
  9. Week 27-29: Group Presentations on Chosen Works
  10. Conclusion: Final Project Preparation and Review

Assessment

Ethical Use of AI

Artificial intelligence tools can be valuable for brainstorming, research, and learning — but using AI to complete assignments, write essays, or generate work that you submit as your own is academic dishonesty. This course expects all submitted work to reflect your own thinking, effort, and voice.

What counts as unethical AI use:

  • Submitting AI-generated text, analysis, or responses as your own work
  • Using AI to answer quiz or test questions
  • Copying and lightly editing AI output without genuine engagement
  • Concealing the use of AI when it was used to complete an assignment

What is acceptable:

  • Using AI to brainstorm ideas that you then develop yourself
  • Using AI to check grammar or spelling after you’ve written your own draft
  • Asking AI questions to better understand a concept — then doing the work yourself
  • Using AI tools when explicitly permitted and directed by the instructor

Consequences for cheating or unethical AI use:

  • Zero grade on the assignment or assessment — no opportunity for a redo
  • A parent or guardian meeting with the instructor and/or administration
  • Possible suspension depending on the severity of the violation or repeat offenses
  • The incident may be documented in the student’s school record

When in doubt, ask. If you’re unsure whether a particular use of AI is appropriate for an assignment, ask before submitting — not after.

  • Participation and Attendance: 20%
  • Weekly Assignments: 30%
  • Essays/Writing: 20%
  • Final Project: 30%

Class Rules

  1. Be respectful to peers and the instructor.
  2. Arrive on time and be prepared for class.
  3. Keep electronic devices silenced and put away unless authorized.
  4. Actively participate in discussions and group activities.
  5. Complete assignments on time; late work will be penalized.
  6. Use appropriate language in all communications.
  7. Follow instructions and guidelines for group work.
  8. Maintain a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
  9. Seek help when needed and offer assistance to others.
  10. Adhere to all school policies and regulations.

Three-Strike Policy

Strike 1: Verbal Warning

  • The student will receive a verbal warning for the first infraction of the class rules.

Strike 2: Written Warning

  • The student will receive a written warning and a discussion with the instructor regarding the behavior and its impact on the learning environment.

Strike 3: Parent Notification and Consequences

  • The student’s parents will be notified, and a meeting may be scheduled to discuss further actions, which could include detention or other disciplinary measures.