Welcome to Language Arts with Mrs. Herbert
Grade 7
by Anne Herbert
August 13, 2008
Learning is NOT a spectator sport. Be prepared to be active in this class!
Ask questions, share your opinions, offer new ideas!
Course Description: Students will work on developing reading and writing skills including exploring new authors and genres, writing proficiently in each of the four text types (narrative, expository, persuasive, technical), as well as expressing ideas articulately and confidently both in writing and in speaking.
Course Curriculum:
Literature: We will use the district literature text as well as two novels chosen by district. Novel choices may include: Walk Two Moons, Steal Away Home, The Giver, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry. In addition, we will use short stories from other texts and publications.
Vocabulary: Vocabulary words will be chosen each week from reading material we are using in class. In addition, we will study roots, suffixes and prefixes.
Spelling: Students will record individualized lists of words missed in their own writing. We will study and test on these words periodically.
Writing/Grammar: In conjunction with our study of literature, students will complete at least one major writing assignment and several shorter writing assignments each quarter. Major writing projects are an assessment of skills taught over a period of time and they are evaluated using the 6-trait writing rubric. Grammar will be taught in conjunction with this writing.
Exploratory Reading: During the course of each quarter, students will self-choose books from a wide range of genres, completing this reading independently. One class period per week will be allowed for in class reading and discussion of these books; the remainder of the reading should be completed outside of class. Books will be chosen and pre-approved with the students' reading level and goals for improvement in mind.
Speaking: Opportunities will be given for students to share their work and ideas with others both informally and as formal presentations.
Grading Policies: Grades will be earned according to the scale listed below. Comprehensive tests or projects will count for a double weighted score. Work will be evaluated for a grade after skills have been taught and practiced. Practice assignments will be graded, but points will be often assigned for having completed the activity.
Scale: 90-100 = A 80-89 = B 70-79 = C 60-69 = D Below 60 = F
Daily work which is discussed and graded aloud in class will not be accepted late except in the case of absence. Other work may be accepted for a late grade at a reduction of 10% per day up to a week late. It is the responsibility of the student to let the teacher know if something is late, and to make arrangements for turning the assignment in promptly.