ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING!!
The first and most important rule is RESPECT!! This is a completely different way of learning then we are used to. First and foremost, please have respect for yourself. You are expected to kind and courteous at ALL times in my class. Never let anyone you come across feel less than.
Be RESPONSIBLE. You have a lot more freedom than you are used to having, so it is your responsibility to show up ON TIME and be ready to LEARN, ENGAGE and HAVE FUN.
Be HERE and be READY. Focus on the speaker, follow directions and complete and turn in your work. If you CANNOT be here, it is your responsibility to find out what you missed. COMMUNICATION is KEY!
PARTICIPATE. Participation is vital!! The more you interact and voice your opinion, the better student you will become. Please try to avoid "hiding" behind your screen. We are in this together!!
Coursework for eighth grade Language Arts consists of reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar. I utilize the California Common Core Content Standards for Language Arts as well as the Pleasanton Unified School District Course Outline to determine the specific content of my instruction.
The general standards I will teach this year include the following:
Reading: standards focus on three areas: word analysis/vocabulary development, reading strategies/comprehension, nonfiction with articles of the week and literary response and analysis.
Writing: standards focus on essay writing in the following genres: persuasive, literary analysis, biographical sketch and research.
Written and Oral Language: standards include listening and speaking strategies and applications.
Curriculum includes:
STUDY SYNC ( various stories from different units)
Core Novels: A Christmas Carol, SeedFolks and a novel of chose from our Holocaust unit.
Daily Grammar and Vocabulary
Non-fiction Articles
HOMEWORK: While we are virtually learning, homework will look a little different than it normally does. All assignments will always be turned into the Google classroom . For now, homework will be finishing work we started in class or practicing grammar and vocabulary.
SUPPLIES: For now, the only supply you will need is a spiral notebook for your language arts notes. It isn't that necessary right now, but will be if and when we are finally back in the classroom.