Letter to Parents

British Literature - Highland Park High School

September 6, 2000

Dear Parents:

Your child is currently enrolled in a class in British Literature that I teach. By now you may have heard that this class may be a little bit different from what the students are used to. I would like to explain briefly how the class is organized and to offer the theoretical bases for conducting this class in this way.

This class is based on several educational theories about learning: constructivism, problem-based learning, and real world applications. In the spirit of these learning theories, the class does not require students to take any tests or quizzes. Grades at the quarter and semester will be determined by a review of a portfolio of their work. The students themselves are helping to determine class expectations as well as the criteria for assessment.

Last year, students in this one-semester British Literature class wrote and published on the Internet the curriculum being used for the class this year. This year’s students are following and making adjustments to that curriculum. Because a good amount of choice is key in this curriculum, the process affords them the opportunity to learn about the breadth of British literature while providing opportunities for them to delve deeper into some of the literature. In addition, they will learn to analyze the comparative worth of a variety of pieces of literature, a skill that they will employ in selecting literature for the rest of their lives. Their work will also address all of the requirements of a senior English elective by incorporating worthwhile content with skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, group processes, and technology. By the end of the semester, the class will have produced a final product that will best present their own curriculum to a panel of expert judges.

If you are interested in seeing the work produced by last year’s students or in keeping abreast of this year’s work, feel free at any time to check out this living curriculum at http://www.d113.lake.k12.il.us/hphs/curriculum/senese/index.html.

I hope that I will have the opportunity to meet you face to face on the evening of Open House, Wednesday, September 20. If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please do not hesitate to call me at 926-9247 or write to me at jsenese@d113.lake.k12.il.us. I look forward to creating a meaningful and enriching experience with your child.

Sincerely,

Joseph C. Senese