LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

LANGUAGE ARTS WITH MS. SANTOS - TEAM 7-2


INTRODUCTION
The seventh grade language arts curriculum focuses on the skills necessary for reading, writing, and thinking. The goal is to strengthen those skills through an integrated reading and writing program. An overview of the course requirements and areas of studies is described below. I look forward to working with you and your child. I believe this could be an enjoyable and productive year if we all work together as a team.


WRITING
Your child will continue to improve his/her writing skills through short-term and long-term writing assignments and projects. This includes narrative, persuasive, and expository writing. Students will also engage in writing workshop twice a week. During this time, they will explore their own ideas for creative and meaningful writing, which may be inspired by mini-lessons. Finally, spelling and vocabulary lessons will also be a part of the curriculum.

LITERATURE AND READING TEXT: LANGUAGE OF LITERATURE
Literature will frequently inspire short-term writing assignments. Students will learn literary terms and techniques and will study various forms of literature representative of different cultures, ethnic groups, eras, and ideas. In addition to our textbook, students will be required to read novels. The novels at times will be assigned but most months will be self-selected. These novels will serve as a model for long-term writing assignments.

GRAMMAR/MECHANICS/USAGE TEXT: LANGUAGE NETWORK
Instructional units from this text will focus on strengthening specific grammar skills. Exercises and tests will be given to meet the needs of each student. Also, the writing assignments will often reveal that certain skills need to be reviewed or mastered. This textbook will address those special needs through the use of exercises that will be applied directly to students’ writing.


LISTENING AND SPEAKING SKILLS
Students will learn to use spoken language effectively in formal and informal situations each trimester.




GRADES AND ASSESSMENTS
Grades will be calculated according to the percentage of total points earned of those available. Students will earn points for each assignment. Late work will be penalized and absent students are responsible for making up missed work. Rubrics will be given for writing assignments and long-term projects.


MATERIALS NEEDED

• (1) pocket folder (bring to class every day)
• Loose-leaf paper in pocket folder
• (1) 3 subject notebook (stays in class in appropriate crate)
• Pens (blue or black only)

TOOLS FOR SUCCESS

• Assignments, quizzes, tests, and long-term projects are posted on the homework board. Students should bring their student planners to class every day.
• Study sessions will be held as needed. These sessions will be announced ahead of time, and students are required to get a pass from me before the day of the study session. Check weekly syllabus and blog for study session days and times.
• Retakes and revisions are offered to help students raise their scores.
• A weekly syllabus is given to students every Monday. I will also post my syllabus on my blog.
• Copies of long term assignments such as book reports will be posted on my blog.