August 2026

Hello English students and parents,

Welcome to High School English class!  I am excited to read, discuss, and write with you this year.

Our focus will be on essay writing and Hamlet. Below are just a few bits for you to absorb before I see you on Wednesday, September 9, 1 p.m.

About Writing

• My job is to teach you to write, and I love my job!
• Your job is to write for me, without using AI. We’ll discuss this thoroughly when we see each other.

About Essays

• This year we’re writing essays.
• Essays are nonfiction, informational and/or persuasive writing.
• We write best when we write about topics which interest us. I will give you freedom to choose your own topics.
• You will also write in-class essays.

About Hamlet

• We’ll begin our study of Shakespeare’s Hamlet in January. Please make sure you have the No Fear Shakespeare Hamlet play by January 5, 2027.
• You will read, recite, and perform a very short portion of the play.
• You will also write a literary analysis essay on it.
• Fun Fact: Seattle Shakespeare Company is performing Hamlet this fall, September 19 – October 11. Sadly, I will not be able to attend, but if you and your family/friends are interested, check it out here:  Hamlet

About Homework

• You will always have homework.
• Know what’s due and how to complete homework by checking the post right here each Wednesday afternoon.
• I am happy to answer questions regarding homework via email. Please do not text me with a homework question.

About Your English Grade

• English is worth one credit on your high school transcript.
• I will evaluate your homework and assign a grade for it.
• I will also send your parents a copy of your grade report approximately every 2 weeks so they can keep track of your progress.
• Due dates are real. If you don’t turn in any assignment when it is due, you have just one extra week to get it to me — in person, not via email – and if you don’t, you’ll receive a “0” for that assignment.

Thank you, and please enjoy the few weeks of summer remaining before we dive into high school English!

In Christ,

Mrs. B