Welcome 

 ELA (English Language Arts) 8 is a single class that integrates reading, writing, speaking, and listening. 

Materials Needed for ELA 8:

--> Folder or section in a binder for ELA

--> Composition notebook specifically for ELA (to be left in class)

--> Wired earbuds for school use (can be kept in a pencil pouch with other general supplies)

--> Pencils

--> Highlighters (preferably a couple of different colors)

--> Charged Chromebook

--> Independent Reading Book

8th Grade Curriculum Focus/Learning Targets

Our curriculum uses HMH "Into Literature" as its text/workbook. Students will use a workbook in the classroom, and the text in its entirety can be accessed by students and families through Rapid Identity (students' "lock and key"). 

While we work on many learning targets throughout the year, the majority of our graded work will focus on the following High Priority Benchmarks: 

• 8.1.4.2 Determine multiple themes or the central idea of a single text and analyze its development over the course of the text. 

• 8.1.2.1 Read independently and self-monitor understanding of grade-level text and independently annotate learning, independently applying strategies when meaning breaks down, including, but not limited to, making predictions, recalling purpose of reading, and activating prior knowledge to confirm understanding.

• 8.2.6.1 Write to create, applying advanced literary techniques including complicated plots, pacing, rhythm, and rhyme to develop mood and tone in various literary forms.

• 8.1.4.1 Cite textual evidence that most strongly supports conclusions of what a text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text including analysis of what characters or individuals are saying in the text (dialogue and quotations); objectively summarize the text.

• 8.2.7.2 Plan and conduct independent research, synthesizing information from a wide variety of sources, and share findings in writing. (e.g.,sources of different formats and/or perspectives)

• 8.1.7.1 Evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is valid and the evidence is relevant/irrelevant and sufficient.

• 8.1.8.2 Analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone of a variety of academic, technical, and domain-specific words and phrases in informational text.

• 8.2.4.2 Write to persuade, clarifying the relationship between opinions and supporting facts, building on skills from previous years. 

• 8.2.1.1 Consistently write and edit work for correct punctuation, spelling, capitalization, and grammar. 

• 8.3.3.1 Communicate claims and findings, emphasizing important points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, valid reasoning, and carefully selected details, in a variety of presentation styles, following ethical and safe communication practices.

Click HERE for a complete list of current ELA state standards. 

Homework:

Read at least 20 minutes every night! Independent reading at home is a huge factor in academic success. Please help your child carve out some time each night to practice this important skill. Students can read a variety of texts from school or home, using printed texts or audio and e-versions. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Advanced ELA may have additional homework in writing, reading, or special projects.