Welcome to 8th Grade English!

"By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." ~Benjamin Franklin

I know this is an ominous quote with which to start the page, but it is appropriate. Eighth-grade English is all about preparation. This year we will work together to develop your reading, writing, and public speaking skills so that you are ready for your high school career.

We will do LOTS of reading! In addition to our classroom reading list, we will utilize poetry, non-fiction, newspapers, and short stories to enhance your reading and analytical skills.

We also will do LOTS of writing! Virtually every class will begin with a writing exercise. If not literature-inspired, I will provide a variety of prompts, including art, photography, music, sculpture, and short films. During some classes, students will share their writing by reading aloud to the class.

In addition to this creative writing, we will also develop your formal writing skills through a variety of short and long writing projects. I will also incorporate grammar practice to strengthen your mechanics.

Lastly, this site is for you! As you increase your independence in anticipation of high school, I expect you to utilize this site to find out about assignments you missed when you're absent, to reference important documents needed for assignments, and to plan ahead. You may also contact me at jennifer.macleod@sau41.org with any questions you may have. Should you wish to meet with me for extra help, I am available during 5th or 8th period most days. If these time slots do not work for you, please talk to me about setting up a different time; I'm happy to work with students before school, during lunch, or essentially any day after school, as long as I have advance notice. I'm here to help you, so please don't hesitate to ask! :)