Language Arts
Ms. Thomas
GRADE 8
Course Overview
This course was designed to help students become effective users of language, information, and ideas through reading, writing, and speaking. This will be accomplished through amazing writing (creativity, computer usage, cooperative learning, and presentations) and diving into reading (extensive reading, independent thought, a vivid imagination, and thoughtful analysis).
Required Materials for Class
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3 Marbled Composition Journals - TWO WILL BE KEPT IN CLASSROOM AS A READING & WRITING INTERACTIVES. ONE WILL BE LABELED AS NOTES AND MUST BE BROUGHT TO CLASS EVERY DAY. Loose leaf or paper from a spiral notebook will not be accepted.
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Blue (navy) & Black Ink Pens (colored ink and pencils are NOT permitted)
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Post-It Notes
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Novels . . . Regular/Advanced ...
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Grading Period 1
INDEPENDENT NOVEL LIST
Grading Period 2
INDEPENDENT NOVEL LIST
Grading Period 4
INDEPENDENT NOVEL LIST
Grading Period 3
INDEPENDENT NOVEL LIST
Independent Reading ONLY!
Documents
Novel Literary Analysis Format
One-Sentence Summary Frame
ELA Informative Writing Rubric
ELA Argumentative Writing Rubric
ASSIGNMENTS (WRITING)
Classroom Policies, 2017
Required Independent Reading (2017)
Strategies for Success Registration Form
ASSIGNMENTS (READING)
PROJECTS
Summer Reading Book-in-a-Bag Project
Classroom Policies, 2018
Wanted Bio-Poem Format
One-Sentence Summary Frame
Newspaper Template
PROJECTS
TEACHER EXPECTATIONS:
1. Students should respect their teachers and peers, as well as themselves.
2. Students should come to class prepared with a notebook, paper, pens, and a positive attitude.
3. Students should be quietly seated and ready to work when the tardy bell rings.
4. Students should follow all classroom and school-wide rules.
5. Students should turn in all classwork and homework on time.
6. Students should ask questions when in doubt or confused about class assignments.
7. Parents should check student's homework regularly.
8. Parents should assist teachers in the area of discipline.
STUDENT EXPECTATIONS:
1. Fair and equitable treatment from teachers and peers.
2. Teachers to be prepared to teach everyday.
3. To receive homework , correlating to classwork, at least two (2) days a week.
4. Teachers to explain lessons thoroughly.
5. To suffer consequences when rules are broken.
6. To receive rewards when rules are followed.
PARENT EXPECTATIONS:
The education of our children is the key to our future. We are all responsible for preparing our children for the obstacles of this world. I cannot impress upon you, as a parent/guardian, the importance of your involvement in your child's education. As your child's teacher, I will strive to provide the best education that is conducive to learning. In order for me to be successful, it is imperative that you become a member of our (school) team. Your cooperation, suggestions, and input are vital if we are to pass on the gift of education to your child.
Parents should:
1. Develop and maintain an open line of communication with your child's teachers.
2. Attend monthly Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA) meetings.
3. Chaperone school events; attend school events - show your child that you support his/her school.
4. Make arrangements with teachers for a classroom visit.
5. Have on-going discussions with your child about the classes they are enrolled in and the topics that are covered.
6. Assist your child with his/her homework.
7. Stress the importance of good classroom and school behavior - DISCIPLINE is crucial for success.