Welcome to Senior English at Galena High School

Note: This content is based on 43 quick-write texts authored by students on Wednesday, August 28, and consolidated into web content by Claude 3.5 Sonnet. The prompt for the student texts is at the end of this web page. 

Preparing Grizzlies for Their Next Adventure

As you embark on your final year at Galena High School, our Senior English class is designed to polish your skills, broaden your perspectives, and prepare you for the exciting challenges that lie ahead. Whether you're heading to college, entering the workforce, or exploring other opportunities, the skills you'll develop here will serve you well in all aspects of your life.

Our Mission: Engage, Explore, Excel

At Galena High School, student engagement is our top priority. In Senior English, we're dedicated to:

1. Refining essential skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical thinking
2. Exploring diverse literature that challenges and inspires
3. Fostering a supportive community of learners
4. Preparing you for college, career, and lifelong learning

What to Expect in Senior English

Exciting Curriculum

This year, we're diving into a variety of engaging texts and topics:

• Greek mythology, including the story of Prometheus
• Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein"
• Exploration of themes such as heroism, chivalry, fate, and societal change
• Analysis of authors' choices, point of view, and purpose in literature
• Comparative studies, such as connections between "Prometheus" and the "Alien" movie series

We're excited to explore our brand-new textbook, which offers fresh perspectives and contemporary works to complement our classic readings.

Skill Development

Our class focuses on five key areas:

1. Reading: Enhance your ability to analyze complex texts and understand diverse perspectives.
2. Writing: Develop your voice through various writing projects, including essays, research papers, and creative pieces.
3. Speaking: Gain confidence in expressing your ideas through class discussions, presentations, and debates.
4. Listening: Improve your ability to absorb and critically evaluate information from lectures and discussions.
5. Critical Thinking: Learn to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate complex ideas and arguments across various media.

A Typical Day in Senior English

1. Begin class by securing your phone and retrieving your materials.
2. Review the day's agenda on Canvas.
3. Engage in a variety of activities, which may include:
   • Taking detailed notes on lectures or readings
   • Participating in class discussions and debates
   • Working on writing assignments or projects
   • Analyzing texts or media
   • Collaborating with peers on group assignments

Technology in the Classroom

We utilize technology to enhance your learning experience:

• Canvas: Our primary platform for assignments, resources, and communication.
• AI Tools: We explore the responsible use of AI to support your learning, writing, and critical thinking skills.

Remember, while technology is a valuable tool, we prioritize handwritten notes for better retention and understanding.

Keys to Success

1. Stay Engaged: Participate actively in class discussions and activities.
2. Master Notetaking: Develop efficient notetaking skills, which will be crucial in college and your career.
3. Manage Your Time: Complete assignments on time and avoid late penalties.
4. Think Critically: Challenge yourself to analyze texts deeply and form well-supported arguments.
5. Embrace Technology: Learn to use AI and other digital tools responsibly to enhance your learning.

Important Policies

Late Work Policy

• 10% deduction per day late, up to 5 days
• Maximum score of 50% for assignments submitted more than 5 days late
• No credit for work submitted after the posted quarterly deadline

No-Phone Policy

To maintain a focused learning environment, phones must be stored away during class time.

College and Career Preparation

Senior English is designed to bridge the gap between high school and your future endeavors:

• Practice college-level reading and writing assignments
• Develop research skills essential for higher education and many careers
• Refine your ability to craft resumes, cover letters, and college application essays
• Enhance your public speaking and presentation skills
• Learn to balance independent work with collaborative projects

Advice from Current Seniors

Our students have shared some valuable insights for incoming seniors:

• "Don't overthink it. Senior year is not even half as bad as you might imagine."
• "Stay ahead in every assignment and discussion. Engage with the people around you and don't be afraid to share your ideas during class discussions."
• "Always communicate with your teachers! If you can't do something in time because of outside stuff, most of your teachers will be understanding and work out a way for you to succeed in the class."
• "Take lots of notes and come up with creative ways to turn those notes into a way you would like to study."

Join the Grizzly Pride!

Senior English is more than just a class—it's a stepping stone to your future and a chance to leave your mark on Galena High School. We're excited to embark on this journey of learning and discovery with you.

As one student shared, "This class has made me think about my future because we have talked about jobs and real life. It has made me think that I will have to be very organized and on top of my daily tasks."

Are you ready to roar with Grizzly pride and prepare for your next big adventure? Let's make this final year of English an unforgettable experience that sets you up for success!

Prompt: As you prepare to graduate, reflect on your Senior English experience and create a guide for future seniors and their families.

Include:

1. Key themes or essential questions we're exploring this year
2. How this class is preparing you for college, career, and life after high school
3. Major projects or assignments that are particularly meaningful or challenging
4. How your writing and analytical skills have developed over your high school years
5. Advice for incoming seniors on how to make the most of their final English class
6. A personal anecdote about how this class has impacted your thinking or future plans