ELA Class Policies: 

Classwork: Each day when students enter the classroom they will have a 'Do Now' activity to reinforce and refresh material. The daily tasks are always posted on the smartboard. There will also be a weekly work board located in class. This chart will contain assignments that will appear in the gradebook. The assignment will have the date we worked on it in class and the last turn in date for credit. Students typically have a week to complete work. Of course, just reach out if there are any circumstances that would require additional time.

Homework: In ELA, students will receive a weekly homework assignment—typically a worksheet handed out on Monday and due by Friday. Items may be completed on any day that works best for your family.  These assignments are a great way to reinforce word study and review key concepts that will appear on quizzes and tests. Each homework sheet includes a weekly calendar featuring important due dates, helpful class updates, and an overview of what we’re reading and working on in class. On average, there will be five homework assignments per marking quarter.  That means there will be some weeks without a formal homework assignment. During those times, I encourage students to continue reading their independent reading books, which they’ve selected from the library.  These assignments are averaged into one quiz grade. A sample homework sheet will be available for you to view during Meet the Teacher Night. This is a helpful resource to stay informed and support your child’s success in ELA!

Major Grades: These assignments carry more weight in the gradebook and are important indicators of student progress. Each quarter, students will complete at least one major reading unit test, one formal writing assignment, and a project. In addition, we’ll focus on a different style of writing each quarter—narrative, informative, and persuasive. Students will also complete book report projects using the independent reading books they’ve selected from the library. These projects are done in class. At times, students may be required to read a book from a specific genre. Please note that graphic novels are generally not suitable for these projects due to content depth and structure. Encouraging students to challenge themselves and grow as readers is a key focus in our classroom. We are fortunate to have access to an excellent school library, where students can check out up to two books at a time. Students can use this second selection for a genre of their choice.

SS Class Policies: 

Classwork: Social Studies is typically scheduled during the second period of our block on B days. This year, we will be exploring American history from the post-Civil War era through the Cold War. Integrating ELA and Social Studies remains a key goal of mine, as it helps deepen students’ understanding and strengthens their critical reading and writing skills across subjects. 

Homework:  Typically, Social Studies does not require separate, assigned homework. However, any classwork that is not completed during the school day may need to be finished at home. Important tasks, such as studying for a Social Studies test, will be clearly indicated on the weekly homework sheet that students bring home. This approach helps keep all assignments and reminders organized in one convenient place for both students and parents.

Major Grades: These assignments carry significant weight in the gradebook and serve as important indicators of student progress. Each quarter, students will complete at least one Social Studies test, one research assignment, and a project. The week before a test, students will receive a study guide along with an opportunity to complete a note-catcher worksheet designed to help them answer questions accurately. Tests are typically administered electronically through Google Forms.

Throughout the quarter, students will access their notes via Google Classroom, which they can review at home. These interactive notes include vocabulary definitions, images, audio instructions from me, and short videos to enhance understanding and engagement.