Course Content
In language arts an emphasis is placed on the study of grammar usage, mechanics,
and their application and use in speaking, reading, and writing. A variety of
activities and learning strategies will be incorporated to enable all students
to master the material being taught. A typical lesson includes instruction on a
specific topic, guided and independent practice, and homework assigned as needed
to reinforce and/or extend the material covered in class.
Writer’s workshop is in an integral part of the language arts program. The students are expected to maintain a working portfolio which contains the expectations, editing checklists, conference forms, writing goals, and all the drafts of writings-in-process. They will keep a showcase portfolio, which contains the final drafts of their writing assignments and evaluations. All writings are evaluated on a four-point rubric with one grade given for content and another for mechanics (found in working portfolio). Students are expected to bring their portfolios home on a regular basis and share their work with you. As you review their work, please keep in mind that it may not be a polished piece.
Seventh grade social studies is a historical journey beginning in the colonial times and continuing through reconstruction following the Civil War. The majority of our class content stems from the basic text, History Alive!, and supplemental learning materials.
In literature,
we will read and discuss a variety of novels that correlate with the historical
areas we study. In addition to discussions, activities, and assignments, the
students will write journal entries, focusing on interpretation and reflection,
not summarization.
The vocabulary text consists of fifteen units plus a review unit after every three units. In each unit students are introduced to 15-20 words and definitions some of which will be familiar while others stretch their word base.
Students are
expected to spend approximately 45-60 minutes a night on homework. This will
vary depending on the assignment, but daily reading is strongly encouraged. All
assignments must be neat and legible and in blue or black ink.
While the expectation is that students will have all work done the day it is
due, emergencies do arise that prevent the student from completing an
assignment. Therefore, each student is given one homework pass at the beginning
of each quarter. The work then must be turned in the next day. If a student
chooses not to do the required homework, detention after school from 2:15-3:15
must be served. Students are responsible for making up any work and
tests/quizzes given during an absence. A zero will be given for any work not
made up.
Evaluation
All class/homework is gone over in class, collected, graded, and returned to the students. Quizzes and tests are also gone over in class once they are graded. Tests with failing grades will require a parent signature. All grades will be posted on My Gradebook.com on the Internet.
Prentice Hall Writing and Grammar Literature binder
Vocabulary Workshop
– level B Writing portfolio
American Republic Social Studies text Other items on supply list
Novels and other
literary selections