Class Information:  Overview & Syllabus

Language Arts Syllabus 2025

Welcome to Newton Middle School!  I am looking forward to working with you this year in Language Arts. Here is some very important information about our class to help you get started. 

Google Classroom

Google Classroom will hold our assignments and will help answer questions you may have.  Classwork will be organized by a weekly schedule to ensure organization and consistency throughout the school year. I will also post our weekly slides (containing everything from class) in Google Classroom.   Parents are welcome to join, as you can keep a pulse on what we are learning and  help your child keep track of due dates.

Class Supplies

• School-issued Chromebook (recommended to bring charger as well)   

• 1 inch binder (to be kept in the classroom)   

• 5 subject dividers for binder 

• Writer’s Notebook (composition book)

• Pencil bag: pens/pencils, scissors, glue, markers or colored pencils

• Headphones (no bluetooth/ airpods) 

• Independent reading book 

Planners: 

Using the student planner (provided by school) to keep track of homework assignments, tests, and projects will be a lifesaver. Your planner will greatly help you keep it straight. I clearly announce and post assignments in class and will provide you with time to write them down each day.  Checking your child’s planner is a great way to stay in touch with their schoolwork.  

Follow the CODE (Newton’s behavior policy):

Be Caring – act kindly toward others, yourself, and property.

Be Open Minded - challenging reading, constant writing, and lots of teamwork can feel overwhelming at times – staying open to all perspectives helps a ton! Be a willing partner that contributes and listens to others.

Be Disciplined – Motivation may come and go, but disciplined people stick with their goals no matter what.  Keep working hard, advocating for yourself, and communicate with your teacher.  

Be Engaged – show focus, interact with your teachers and peers appropriately. Be         involved in what we are doing 

Grading Categories:  (based on ELA Standards) 

1. Language Arts content:  

• Oral Expression and Listening

• Reading for All Purposes

• Research, Inquiry & Design

• Writing and Composition

2. Work Habits (effort, turning in assignments on time, learning behaviors, etc.)  

All grades are given using the Standards Based Grading Scale, meaning a rating of 4, 3, 2, or 1. Grades will be posted on Infinite Campus. If you have questions about a grade, check Infinite Campus first and read any comments that go with the assignment. I will include information on the assignment in the form of an "I can" statement so students and parents know what the grade is based on.   Feel free to contact me with any questions. 

Absences

When students are absent, they have time to complete makeup work.  If they are absent when an assignment is due, they are responsible for turning it in upon their return to school.   Students are expected to check in with their teachers regarding make-up work-- we recommend that they email their teachers or make sure to talk to them during class or reading block.  

Information regarding homework and independent reading expectations will be communicated soon!   

Contact Information:

E-mail: scosenza@lps.k12.co.us

Room 1429

Teacher Page: Be sure to check out my Teacher Page on the Newton website.

https://sites.google.com/lps.k12.co.us/mrscosenzasclass/about-me

I look forward to an awesome year!