7th Grade English

Welcome to the 2007-2008 school year. I am looking forward to having your child in my class this year and will do everything I can to ensure a positive and rewarding academic year.

Reading/Writing Workshop

Curriculum: This is a one period block of reading, writing and word study. The Reading/Writing Workshop will emphasize the integration of listening, speaking, reading and writing to help students to become more proficient readers. This year's units of study include expository text, narrative and persuasive. All of the reading we will do will be closely aligned with the California State Standards:

http://www.cde.ca.gov .

Our writing will also follow the California State Standards. Our writing projects will include the following: short story, summaries, research reports including reference and citations page, persuasive compositions and responses to literature. NOTE: All seventh grade students in California submit a writing exam as part of the California state testing. This test is given in the spring.

Homework: Students will be required to read and respond to their writing nightly. Additionally, students may have unfinished class work to complete for homework. Assignments will be written on the board and it is the student's responsibility to write it down in their planner. Assignments turned in one day late will receive ½ credit and thereafter will not receive any credit. When students are absent, it is the responsibility of the student to request the missed work.

Grading: Students will receive grades every six weeks. Grades will be based on independent reading, writers' notebook, writing projects, tests/quizzes and class participation.

Please know that you are welcome and encouraged to visit our classroom at any time. Please check your child's planner as a form of communication regarding specific and upcoming assignments.

I will go over the curriculum and grading in more detail on Back to School Night, September 26 th . Please feel free to call me or email me with any questions or concerns. I look forward to a positive and rewarding year!

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Garrett