Reading and Language Arts – Seventh Grade                                          Mrs. Paige Wolcott

 

Class Description:

This class will approach language arts from a modified whole-language point of view. Each quarter will be separated into specific units of literature (short stories, poetry, drama, novels, etc.). The units will be designed to teach specific styles of writing and elements of grammar usage that will enhance the study and comprehension of the selected literary work. Students will build their vocabulary knowledge and skills each week through SAT/ACT activities and testing. Students will also participate in daily grammar and writing skill-building activities. A writer’s notebook will be kept to encourage individual expression through language. Students will also be given the opportunity to read and study approved novels of their choosing. All activities and instruction are directed toward creating strong and confident writers who share an appreciation for and an understanding of literature.

 

Textbooks:

Literature: Red Level

Language Arts Today (orange)

 

Required Materials:

- two composition books

- an accordion file w/ 12 sections

- a 2-ring binder w/ 5 dividers (could be shared with other subjects)

- notebook paper

- pen/or pencil

- 2 red pens

- 4 different colored highlighters

- colored pencils 

- an approved book of choice (always) 

 

Grading:

Classwork:      15%  (checked for effort, understanding and participation)

Homework:     15%  (checked for effort, understanding and completion; turned in on-time)

Quizzes:          25%  (vocabulary, D.O.L., novel chapters, spelling; literature terms)

Tests/Major Writings: 30%  (unit exams, essays, example writings)

Responsibility/Participation: 15% 

-    3 pts. are given each day for the following rules.

-     points are deducted daily for each rule not followed:

• H-no homework, L-locker, T-tardy, TMT-too much talking, OT – off task

 

Classroom Procedures and Expectations:

Basics:

Listen and participate respectfully.

Bring all required materials daily.

Actively participate and give your best effort daily.

Be in your seat and quietly working on the warm-up assignment when the tardy bell rings.

 

Assignments:

Follow specific directions of the given assignments.

All assignments must be completed and turned in on time.

Assignments must be legible with proper heading.

All handouts, quizzes, tests, and assignments should be kept in the binder for references and review for quizzes and tests.

 

Late- work:

1 – day late will lose 10% of total points (10pt assignment will lose 1pt.; 50 pt. will lose 5pts., etc.)

2 – days late will lose 20% of total points

3 – days will lose 50% of total points

More than 3 days will result in a zero.

 

Make-up work:

When you return to class from an absence, your make-up work will be in the blue wall-organizer on the board. It is your responsibility to pick-up your assignments, complete the work and return it to me by the new due date. Of course, I am available for tutoring if the concepts are new.

 

All homework assignments will be posted on the homework helper link available on the school web page.

This can be useful in keeping up with missed assignments in an extended absence.

 

Special Note:

I am available for tutoring/extra help after school every day until 3:15PM.

 

Please contact me with questions, comments, or concerns throughout the year.

Email: pwolcott@southfield-school.org 

Phone: 868-5375 (school voicemail)

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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