Course Overview: 

In 7th grade English, we will concentrate on expository and persuasive writing. Our focus for learning will include crafting sophisticated thesis statements, drawing connections between texts, supporting arguments with compelling evidence, and organizing essays clearly and logically. Students will read class novels and plays that include The Circuit, Animal Farm, The Great Gatsby, and Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Vocabulary and grammar lessons will be spiraled throughout each unit and integrated into student writing.Class discussions will center around the theme of society and expectation, allowing students a safe space to question and reflect on the world around them.

Class Website: https://sites.google.com/view/newman-english/home

Students and families are strongly encouraged to bookmark this site, as it will be used on a regular basis. Lessons will be published weekly, providing access to relevant course materials, discussion prompts, and assignments.

Homework 

Homework may include Word Voyage lessons, written responses, vocabulary and grammar exercises, and assigned readings. Each of these assignments is intended to prepare students for class. Completing the work means being prepared to engage in upcoming lessons, assessments, and discussions.  

Late Work

All work that needs to be submitted late must be discussed ahead of time. If a student is absent due to illness, he or she has the number of days missed to make up any work. Work turned in late without permission will lose twenty percent for every day late. Repeated lateness will be reflected in the effort grade for this class. Assignments that require multiple days or weeks to complete may not be eligible for late credit if not discussed in advance.

Tardiness

All students must arrive to class on time with the required materials. Leaving the room to perform personal errands such as going to a locker, bathroom, or drinking fountain at the beginning of class will result in a tardy mark for attendance. In order to be counted as on time, one must be in his/her seat with the required materials for class. Repeated tardiness will result in a lowered effort grade and reported to the Head of Upper School for further review.

Grading

40% Principal Assessments (Essays, Tests, Projects, etc.) 30% Quizzes & Classwork 

15% Homework 15% Participation

A Note on AI

While technology will play a supportive role in our learning, it's important to note that the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to complete student work will not be accepted. Instead, we will work together to explore meaningful ways to use technology that enhance and deepen our understanding. From research tools to creative projects, we will learn how to responsibly integrate technology in ways that bolster learning, while ensuring that all work reflects each student's personal effort and growth.