Class+Information

toc This information applies to both English and Reading classes.

=Programs:= We have several different programs going on at the same time. These include, but are not limited to:

Word Within a Word
We will study a large amount of vocabulary and roots this year, and I will lists of definitions for each unit. Studying the vocabulary is your responsibility. All lists will be found on quizlet.com If you miss a vocabulary test due to an excused absence, you will need to come to advisory to make it up. I announce the tests’ dates long in advance, so missing the day before the test does not excuse you from the test.

Novel Studies -
Students will be required to read 40 books this school year. Details can be found here. Two book clubs will be held this year - one in the fall, one in the spring. Students will have personal choices as to the novel they read.

=**Writing**= Students will write both formal essays and informal reflections, often responding to particular reading assignments and often posted to classroom.

=Typed Assignments:= Most assignments are typed and turned in via google classroom. I expect students to have a plan for accessing the internet and to use the cloud to continue working on assignments started in class. If computer issues at home are an issue, the student should make arrangements with me prior to the due date.

Late Work Policy:
All work is due on the date assigned. If a child is absent, and the date was assigned prior to their absence, they will be responsible for turning it in or being prepared the day they return.

Daily Work: This work is due at the beginning of class when I ask for it.

Tests, larger work: This work is due anytime during the day that it is due. That means if there is a printer problem at home, the student has the entire school day to solve the problem and hand it in before going home.

Can we throw it away?
Students always want to throw old work away, and my answer is, “Do so at your own risk, but remember, I often go back to past assignments to use them currently.” Also, I am responsible for entering so much data that I inevitably make mistakes. You can prove discrepancies are my mistakes by keeping work I’ve handed back to you. If you toss it in the garbage can, your work cannot be verified. I recommend keeping a folder, in your binder, for graded papers until given permission from me to discard them. DO NOT keep them at home prior to my instructions for discard.

=Policies=

Absences
When you are absent, you are responsible for visiting the class blog for a description of our activities for that day, and if you have questions about the content there, you may see me during a free moment---NOT during the beginning of a class period. If you ask me at the beginning what we did, I will mumble something, but do not consider it the final word. If the information is missing, please see me during stretch.

Tardies
I expect students to be on time. Students arriving late will sign in and sit down quietly, refraining from explaining to anyone why they were late. Please see school policies for further information on tardies.

Testing
Benchmarks will be given as central admin dictates. STAAR testing will include Language usages ( writing and editing). reading and mathematics.