7th Grade English
Please utilize this website to see our class schedule, my contact information, and other important information pertaining to 7th grade English and Douglas Middle School.
CLASS OVERVIEW
The seventh grade language arts program covers the areas of reading, writing, grammar mechanics, speaking and listening. Units will be developed through creative writing, journal writings, various reading materials, and activities. Emphasis will be given to organizational skills, self-discipline, listening and social skills through written and oral language.
Writing: Grammar mechanics are introduced and reviewed. These will be practiced within the writing units. Writing projects may include narratives, descriptive writing, expository writing, persuasive writing and creative writing. Students are expected to learn to practice all stages of the writing process. Spelling is also included in the writing process with activities centered around rules of spelling and vocabulary.
Reading: Reading comprehension, reading strategies and vocabulary are developed through both independent reading and directed reading. Students will examine non-fiction, fiction, poetry, essays and drama from a variety of sources with the primary selections coming from the Glencoe textbook.
Speaking: Oral textbook reading and drama readings are a part of 7th grade program. Learning to speak before a group is ventured in various unthreatening ways appropriate to social skills.
Listening/Viewing: Listening skills are developed through oral lessons, dictations and expression with other students.
Language Arts: 7th grade also supports research skills developed through other disciplines. Students entering 7th grade language arts are expected to have a clear understanding of the writing process, reading strategies, grammar skills, and oral communication skills as taught in previous grades. When students leave 7th grade, all of those skills should show improvement. Students should be able to utilize all stages of the writing process with appropriate grammar, read and comprehend grade-appropriate material, and demonstrate improved skills in oral communications.
About Me
Hello!
My name is Travis Ladwig and this is my 1st year teaching at Douglas Middle School! Though new to DMS, I am not new to the world of education.
After graduating from Black Hills State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Education, I taught in Huron, SD for 5 years. I had varying settings of teaching there that saw me in 3rd grade, 6th ELA, and 8th science. During this time I received my Masters in Education from Northern State University. I then moved back to the beautiful Black Hills and taught 8th grade science in Spearfish. And now, entering my 7th year of teaching, I have the awesome privilege to teach at DMS!
A quick glimpse into my life outside of the classroom: I am married to my beautiful wife Amanda, who is also a teacher. We have a two year old daughter named Maxlyn, who runs our house. I am a boys varsity basketball coach but you'll see me in the stands for all other sports and activities as well! I love the Hills and riding my motorcycle through the jaw-dropping scenery.
This school year will bring fun, engaging lessons that will challenge students, but open up avenues of inquiry and imagination as well.
Go Patriots!