What to Expect This Year:
1. Reading some terrific literature. We have a great selection of genres to work with this year. There is virtually no way you will not find something you enjoy. Class time will be set aside for sustained SILENT reading. Complete silence during this time is expected of all students. If you are not on task, you will be asked to leave the class.
2. Self-selecting reading. You are required to have the novel of your choice with you everyday as the opportunity to read for pleasure will be made available to you on a weekly basis. Please take this very seriously in my classroom, because this is probably one of the most relaxing times you will find to read.
3. Opportunity to discuss the books you are reading while you read them. Throughout the year, you will engage in literature discussion circles with your classmates. I will participate as well. Each group will receive questions to guide your discussion. Consider this opportunity your chance to review for upcoming tests/quizzes/assignments related to the novel or short story we are currently studying. If you are not on task, you will be asked to leave the classroom and receive a "0" for a participation grade. Discussion is the single most important aspect of my class.
4. Meaningful writing. You will receive a healthy balance of assigned and self-selected topics during the course of the year. The majority of which will be completed in a writing workshop atmosphere. I will provide plenty of class time to write, revise, and edit your assignments, so there is no excuse for poor writing. You will learn how to conference with me and your classmates to make your writing increasingly more sophisticated. You must be on task with each workshop, because someone else may be counting on you to make their paper better.
5. Preparation for the high school. One of my goals for you is to prepare you for the next big step of your educational life. I have taught at the West Deptford High School, so I can tell you first hand what to expect. So please feel free to ask any questions. Let me help you get ready!
Extra help from me is always available. It is up to you to take the necessary step to tell me you need help but, rest assured, I will surely make ample time for you.
2. Self-selecting reading. You are required to have the novel of your choice with you everyday as the opportunity to read for pleasure will be made available to you on a weekly basis. Please take this very seriously in my classroom, because this is probably one of the most relaxing times you will find to read.
3. Opportunity to discuss the books you are reading while you read them. Throughout the year, you will engage in literature discussion circles with your classmates. I will participate as well. Each group will receive questions to guide your discussion. Consider this opportunity your chance to review for upcoming tests/quizzes/assignments related to the novel or short story we are currently studying. If you are not on task, you will be asked to leave the classroom and receive a "0" for a participation grade. Discussion is the single most important aspect of my class.
4. Meaningful writing. You will receive a healthy balance of assigned and self-selected topics during the course of the year. The majority of which will be completed in a writing workshop atmosphere. I will provide plenty of class time to write, revise, and edit your assignments, so there is no excuse for poor writing. You will learn how to conference with me and your classmates to make your writing increasingly more sophisticated. You must be on task with each workshop, because someone else may be counting on you to make their paper better.
5. Preparation for the high school. One of my goals for you is to prepare you for the next big step of your educational life. I have taught at the West Deptford High School, so I can tell you first hand what to expect. So please feel free to ask any questions. Let me help you get ready!
Extra help from me is always available. It is up to you to take the necessary step to tell me you need help but, rest assured, I will surely make ample time for you.