Class Information

Reading

The Middle School reading program is designed to expose students to a rich and broad body of literature. Our program includes works in poetry, drama, fiction, nonfiction, essay, diaries/journals, short stories, and plays. The program presents a full range of human emotion, mood, and perspective: comedy, satire, tragedy, and romance. Selections are chosen for diversity: representing male and female authors, ethnic and racial groups, and classic and contemporary selections.

Writing

At TCPS we place quite an emphasis on the process of writing: brainstorming, prewriting, first drafts, editing and rewrites, proofing, and final draft. The rewriting and refining stage of writing is not always enjoyable or easy for students. I try to underscore the importance of the whole process by requiring students to include all steps of the writing (the brainstorming work and all drafts with hand-written changes and corrections) when turning in the final product. Most of our writing is done in class so that I can guide and evaluate each student.

Vocabulary

This year we are going to use the vocabulary program called Wordly Wise. It emphasizes learning and using words in context and introduces several meanings of the word. In addition to in-depth discussions about how and when to use each word, we will incorporate learning games and activities. At the end of each semester, the students will take a final exam not only to ensure review, but also provide the students with the experience of studying for and taking a final exam.