Middle School Language Arts

Course Overview and Policies

The subjects of English and Reading are combined and called Language Arts in the 6th - 8th grades. Therefore, this class will count double in a student’s GPA. The following will be covered.

Reading Literature and Informational Text:

  • Key Ideas and Details

  • Craft and Structure

  • Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

  • Range of Reading and Level of Text Complexity

Writing:

  • Text Types and Purposes

  • Production and Distribution of Writing

  • Research to Build and Present Knowledge

  • Range of Writing

Speaking and Listening:

  • Comprehension and Collaboration

  • Presentation of Knowledge and Ideas

Language:

  • Conventions of Standard English

  • Knowledge of Language

  • Vocabulary Acquisition and Use

Textbook: Students will be using HMH Into Literature textbooks and online programs this year. Look for your child’s account information to come home by mid-September.

Supplies: Please refer to the supply lists on my web page. This differs by grade level for my 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students.

Grades: Quarterly grades will be comprised of the following for all 6th and 7th-grade students:

  • AR quizzes

  • Reading selection quizzes and tests

  • Vocabulary quizzes and tests

  • Journal writings

  • Grammar quizzes and tests

  • Writing compositions

7th and 8th GRADE students SHOULD SAVE ALL WORK FOR SEMESTER EXAMS!!!

Homework will be assigned as needed. Homework assignments will be posted in the classroom on a daily basis. Students are responsible for writing assignments in their calendar at the end of each Language Arts class. It is important for assignment calendars to be checked each night by students and parents/guardians. This is an excellent way for parents/guardians and teachers to communicate with one another. Please refrain from removing any pages from the assignment calendar. Please check my website at the beginning of each week to view upcoming assignments and due dates for your student. Also, remember to monitor your child’s Progress Book account throughout the school year.

Homework assignments taken as a completion grade (i.e. skill and practice work) will be worth 5 points. Whereas, an assignment evaluated for content will vary in point value depending on complexity. Homework will cover work students were unable to finish in class, along with worksheets, projects, bookwork, and studying for quizzes and tests.

Students are responsible for making up classwork and homework due to an absence. The Handbook policy will be followed. Makeup work is to be done promptly.

Late assignments can greatly impact a student’s quarterly grade. Assignments that are taken as a completion grade will not be accepted after the due date. Other more complex assignments will be accepted one day late with a 50% deduction. Beyond one day late those assignments will receive a zero.

Grades will be updated weekly using ProgressBook, an online grade book. Your student's account should be active and accessible at this time. Please check to see if you are able to log in with your child’s login information from last year. If you need assistance in accessing ProgressBook, please contact the school office.

In order for learning to take place, students must have a clear understanding of what is expected of him/her. Knowing the teacher’s expectations enables a student to feel more secure and confident in the classroom. All students are expected to adhere to the following behavior guidelines in the classroom.

  • Respect Yourself-Always think positively and do your best at all times. Take pride in your work and hand it in on time.

  • Respect Others- Appreciate other's ideas and treat other's property respectfully.

  • Speak at Appropriate Times-Raise your hand to share your thoughts and ideas during discussion time and group work.

  • Be Active Listeners-Have your eyes and ears on others while they are speaking. Raise your hand if you need further instructions, and stay seated unless directed otherwise.

  • Be Prepared for Class- Have necessary books and supplies with you.

  • Be Responsible- Ask for help when needed, use technology appropriately, and when absent, take the initiative to gather your make-up work.

  • Follow Classroom Procedures-Making the classroom run smoother for everyone.

  • Have Faith in God- He is always their to help and guide you.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you have by using the assignment calendar, my email, lauckt@sccslima.org, or a phone call at 419-222-2536 ext. 1071 and I will return your call.

I look forward to working with you and your child this year in middle school!

God Bless