S.S.R. Audio-Visual Project Examples

Here are teacher examples of the following project options for this quarter's S.S.R. book:

Prezi Option:

https://prezi.com/oazynjxu9kof/the-meaning-of-maggie/

Webpage Option:

http://www.weebly.com/weebly/main.php

Powtoon (Mini-Movie Option):

http://www.powtoon.com/show/bMwWeDQL6tN/the-meaning-of-maggie/

Study Tool for the Quarter B CRT!

 

Click on the following Quizlet link to study for the Quarter B CRT (December 17th or 18th): http://quizlet.com/42298206/quarter-b-crt-terms-flash-cards/

December 3rd: Imagery, Oxymoron, & Juxtaposition

1). Click on the following link and fill in your notes skeleton for the following figurative language techniques:

*Imagery Videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4LVTn4d_-Q

*Oxymoron Video
http://video.about.com/grammar/What-Is-Oxymoron-.htm

*Juxtaposition Videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLme6-ddADg

2). If you still have time, play the following game to review what you just learned from the video by clicking on the following link: http://www.vocabulary.co.il/word-play/match-and-make-oxymorons/

3). If you still have time you can read our S.S.R. book OR study for Friday's quiz.

http://quizlet.com/60138059/week-16-17-roots-flash-cards/

Tuesday. December 2nd: Literary Elements & Figurative Language in Poetry

1). Make sure you have headsets plugged into your computer, the volume is loud enough/not on mute (check your computer and the volume switch on your headphone cord).

2). Click on the following video link reviewing point-of-view (1st person: "I,me,we,us"; 2nd person: "you", and 3rd person: "he, she, they, the name of someone")  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pv8HMBouN_s

3). Now get out your poetry comprehension packet for today. We will be listening to audio examples of some classic poetry to identify the mood and tone of each piece and to review different elements of literature. Click on the following link to get started: http://www.poetryoutloud.org/poems-and-performance/listen-to-poetry When you are done with the packet, you may keep it in your binder for Friday.

4).  Click on the following link to practice your Roots for Friday's quiz: http://quizlet.com/60138059/week-16-17-roots-flash-cards/

Tone & Mood Practice

Song Lyrics are a form of poetry (lyrical poetry) and the Tone of these poems can be interpreted in many different ways depending on the reader/artist who wants to perform them.

*Materials Needed:

*Computer/Internet Access

*Mrs. Enos’ webpage for the appropriate links: www.readingwithenos.blogspot.com

*writing utensil

*headphones

*this handout

Directions:

1). Choose five different titles (2 artists/title) to listen to.  This means you will be listening to each song twice.

2). Appropriately fill out the grid for each one of the songs.

3). There are seven song options, so you can pick and choose which ones interest you the most.

4). Think about the contrasting mood each reader/artist gave to the song.  Same words, but different interpretations and decide for yourself which tone/mood seems to fit better with these lyrics/poetry.

Example: "Piece of My Heart"

A = Janis Joplin version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8PGDlh6GfM

B = Faith Hill version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORsw3FBTfm0

Example: "What a Wonderful World"

A = Lois Armstrong version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3yCcXgbKrE

B = Israel Kamakawiwo version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cY5VI4whiys

Example: "I Heard it Through the Grapevine"

A = Marvin Gaye version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hajBdDM2qdg

B = Gladys Knight and the Pips version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ah1cvL_ez-M

Example: "Always on My Mind"

A = Willie Nelson version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDGiSoLIG8I

B = Da'ville version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DT5L3vuXCIc

Example: "Eleanor Rigby"

A = The Beatles version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaRNrDaoMqw

B = Aretha Franklin version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ_dhKnooQ8

Example: "Leaving on a Jet Plan"

A = John Denver version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19ToC8pQrCY

B = Chantel Kreviazuk version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jb6J_ejLd7o

Example: "I Fought the Law"

A = The Bobby Fuller Four version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJlKzgl1tZQ

B = The Clash version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mke3x4Hstd4

Station A: Figurative Language Pre-Test

Click on the following link to find out what you've retained from previous English instruction in regards to figurative language (make sure to show Mrs. Enos your score): http://www.quia.com/quiz/449371.html

Station A: Round vs. Flat Characters

Click on the prezi link below to complete your notes skeleton.

You will want to wear the headphones and start at frame 19/34.

https://prezi.com/spokj6_lzx1j/copy-of-characters-antagonist-vs-protagonist-flat-vs-round-characters/

Symbolism

*We will first review the main concepts of symbolism by filling in our skeleton notes that coincides with the following prezi: https://prezi.com/s93r4tla1a7e/symbolism/

*Still confused?  Here is a video to reiterate the characteristics of symbolism, but explained in a different way. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-F599mU6L4

*Before we read a passage with symbolism for one of tomorrow's station, you are going to reflect on the concept of symbolism by creating a symbol that represents you.

1). First choose to either create a symbol in the form of a:
      A) Flag
                     OR
      B) Tattoo
2). Your symbol needs to represent the following meaning/traits about you
      -A number that represents something important in your life.
      -At least one color (on than black/white) that represents a personal emotion
      -a group/family/club/society you associate with the most
      -a goal you have for the future
      -your top priority in your life/what you're most loyal to
3). Have the symbol drawn on one side of the page and the explanation on the back side.
        Example: -The green color on my flag represents my greed for money.
                         -The paw print represents my loyalty to me dog.

Protagonist vs. Antagonist

1). Watch the following Prezi presentation, in order to have completed notes, here is the link! (make sure your headphones are plugged in)

  http://prezi.com/ygj-szwcxjey/characters-antagonist-vs-protagonist/

  2). Today's enrichment activity: To show you understand the concepts and the differences between a protagonist and an antagonist in a story, we will be creating trading cards of the protagonist OR antagonist (choose one) in the small group novel you've been reading for class.  Click on the link below to get started!  Make sure to print off your work and turn it in with your binder on Friday.  

  http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/trading_cards_2/

3). End the class with S.S.R. and your double-entry journal.

Station A: Commonly Confused Words Practice

 

Click on the following link and the choose word sets that tend to confuse you the most when reading or you tend to mix up in your writing.  http://homepage.smc.edu/reading_lab/words_commonly_confused.htm

CRT Quarter A Study Tools!

 

Use the following links to study for your upcoming CRT!

http://quizlet.com/38024564/test?written=on&matching=on&mult_choice=on&tf=on&prompt-with=1&limit=20

http://flipquiz.me/quiz/10191

Quarter A's: A-Z S.S.R. Prezi Example

 

1) Choose one of the books that you've completed during our first 8 weeks of S.S.R.

2). Create a Prezi https://prezi.com/signup/public/  using all 26 elements (A-Z list) that you've identified in this piece of literature.  You do not have to showcase the 26 elements in alphabetical order, but you must include all 26 elements in your presentation.  Please use labels/headings as well when explaining your information.

3). A checklist/grade sheet will be given to you while you work, so you will know exactly what you'll be getting graded on.  DEADLINE = Beginning of class on Tuesday, October 14th.

*You will have Friday, 10/3 and Monday, October 10/6 to work on your Prezi in class.

 

"Different Like You" Vocabulary Quiz

Use the Quizlet tool to study for Thursday's vocabulary quiz!

http://quizlet.com/51335786/different-like-you-flash-cards/

Use Quizlet to study for Friday's Vocabulary Quiz!

http://quizlet.com/50580924/flashcards

Censorship: Constitution Day and Banned Books Week

 

To conclude the different readings we've covered on the topic of censorship, we will be utilizing our digital literacy and listening skills by viewing the following video commentary from the well-known opinion writer, Andy Rooney.  Click on the following link.  While listening to Rooney's commentary, map out his main arguments on the topic of censorship and word choice (specifically in this case, swearing/profanity).  http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/rooney-cursing-censorship/

 

Today you will be previewing Quarter B literature circle reads.  Refer to your preference list you were given and watch all of the book trailers/read the book summaries before listing your preferences on the sheet of paper.  Please make sure your headphones are on and properly plugged into your computer.  You will be reading and discussing this title with Reading9-10 students across all sections of the day through an online forum during the first four weeks of quarter B (Discussions will be once/week).  

Al Capone Does My Shirts http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aRdCXYy5YM

Aquamarine http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktGTCzqEY6Q

Bar Code Tattoo http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4Z_SjtsRWs

Before We Were Free http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q75VyWKQx5A

 The BFG http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv8tzV3EPbE

The Cage http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_MsYczjEMQ

California Diaries: Sunny (overview from www.amazon.com)
Major stress at home with mom's illness. Bug fight with the best friend. Where can a girl go to find peace of mind? This new series has a first-person, diary format that draws readers into an intimate look at preteen life in the 1990s. 

The China Garden (overview taken from www.bn.com)

 When Clare moves with her mother from London to Ravensmere, an historic English estate, she can't shake the feeling that the residents already know her, especially Mark, a maddeningly attractive biker. Clare also feels compelled to take midnight walks in Ravensmere's abandoned China Garden. Then her mother reveals that their own past is tragically linked to the estate. But when Clare discovers that Ravensmere is in grave danger, will she risk her future-and Mark's-to save it?

Crushed (overview taken from www.bn.com)

 Audrey and her two best friends have just transferred to Jemison High from their tiny private school. They're a nerdy little trio, so everyone is shocked when the handsome new guy, Wickham Hill, asks Audrey out. Audrey is so smitten that she doesn't pay much attention to The Yellow Paper, a vicious underground school newspaper...until it threatens to tell a tale that could change everything.

Driver's Ed http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCNS99ggfrY

Flight to Freedom (overview taken from www.bn.com)

  Yara Garcia and her family live a middle-class life in Havana, Cuba. But in 1967, as Communist ruler Fidel Castro tightens his hold on Cuba, the Garcias, who do not share the political beliefs of the Communist Party, are forced to flee to Miami, Florida. There, Yara encounters a strange land with foreign customs. She knows very little English, and she finds that the other students in her new school have much more freedom than she and her sisters. Tension develops between her parents, as Mami grows more independent and Papi joins a militant anti-Castro organization.

Flush  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pg2ByvoGr7c

Fore One More Day (TV Movie Trailer) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tZlCZyGBIk

Forged by Fire http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPGqnZRMpEQ

 Frankenstein  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isE15Ktqyt0

Freak the Mighty  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cM94fsJZ80Y

Hatchet http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwuIto3zPSU

Holes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekC4JJrGjmE

Hope Was Here  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJKyROyZZWk

I Survived: The Attacks on September 11, 2001  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxrpw18KY3g 

Island of the Blue Dolphins http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3cOSBCmoJY 

Journey to the Center of the Earth(movie version trailer) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQx2wLyagk4 

Kit's Wilderness  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlMivl26e0A

Lord of the Flies  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEWqIIyoODs

Make Lemonade  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbjCw0inl_Y

The Nanny Diaries (movie trailer) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fwb8euJ-Evk

Night  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCAXkt8BZq4

Old Yeller http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCNwFYF-CgU 

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3QMxf4yySA

The Royal Diaries: Cleopatra VII 

 While her father is in hiding after attempts on his life, twelve-year-old Cleopatra records in her diary how she fears for her own safety and hopes to survive to become Queen of Egypt some day. (annotation from www.bn.com) 

Rules  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxNGaC-bbRA

Rules of the Road http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LknnB9TtarM

The Skin I'm In http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5nhcIhH6oc

Silent to the Bone http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsLZa--pw4w

Slam  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95xIQ17cz-U

Speak (movie trailer version) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2gdDDpSGvk

Stargirl http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oQ6VGYWUbA

Stick and Whittle (overview taken from www.bn.com)

Stick is a Civil War veteran, down on his luck and searching for his long lost sweetheart. Whittle is an orphan on the lam, looking to repay the world a favor he claims to owe. When the two meet up out West, they become partners on a high-stakes adventure that includes a kidnapping, travel by tornado, and a dramatic rescue mission.

Sweetgrass (overview from www.bn.com)

Sweetgrass, a 15-year-old Blackfoot girl, longs to be married like the other girls her age, and she has a young warrior in mind, Eagle-Sun. Her father feels she is too young for marriage, but over a difficult year for their tribe, which include natural disasters, encounters with white settlers, fights with other tribes, and a smallpox epidemic, she proves her courage, intelligence, and maturity. 

Tracker (overview taken from www.bn.com)

For John Borne's family, hunting has nothing to do with sport or manliness. It's a matter of survival. Every fall John and his grandfather go off into the woods to shoot the deer that puts meat on the table over the long Minnesota winter.But this year John's grandfather is dying, and John must hunt alone. John tracks a doe for two days, but as he closes in on his prey, he realizes he cannot shoot her. For John, the hunt is no longer about killing, but about life.Only thirteen, John must track a deer in the Minnesota woods for his family's winter meat, and in doing so finds himself drawn to the doe who leads him and hating his role as hunter.

Trickster's Queen (overview taken from www.bn.com)

  The native people of Copper Isles, the raka, know that the ancient prophecy handed down their trickster god is on the brink of coming to pass. But what they don't know is that all their hopes rest on the slender shoulders of Aly Homewood -- formerly Alianne of Pirate's Swoop.

From daughter of the powerful to slave in a foreign land, Aly is also a pivotal leader in the underground movement to put a new queen on the throne. Witty, intelligent, and a talented spy, Aly is used to staying two steps ahead of the action. But with new adversaries -- and a faltering romance -- Aly is blind to the threat that lurks right under her nose. What will happen if the queen-to-be is lost?

In this dramatic sequel to Trickster's Choice, Tamora Pierce examines the power of loyalty, family, and friendship in the face of adversity. And in doing so, she gives us the stories of three unforgettable young women discovering who they are and who they want to become.

Aly fails to foresee the dangers that await as she uses her magic to safeguard Dova and her younger siblings, despite knowing that her thirteen-year-old charge might be queen of the Copper Isles when the colonial rulers are defeated.

The Trouble with Lemons (overview taken from www.bn.com)

His real name was Tyler McAllister, but he felt like a lemon. He had allergies and nightmares, and was the only unfamous person in his family. But one night he and a friend went swimming at the forbidden quarry, and Tyler found a dead body. Now he's determined to find out who killed the man and why they're now after him....

The Watson's Go to Birmingham--1963 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLFWc390V9A

When Zachary Beaver Came to Town http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ETrVYs8lUs

Whirligig  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbNHf_kcYNk

Letter Essay for September 12th!

September 12, 2014

Dear Reading 9/10 Students,

The book I’m going to focus on in my letter essay this week, is the realistic-fiction novel, Winger, by Andrew Smith.  I read a review on this book a few weeks ago and I thought the cover was fantastic (high school guy with stitches and a bloody nose looking pretty damaged) so I ordered a used copy off of Amazon and started reading!

Ryan Dean West (nickname “Winger”) attends a prestigious private boarding school and is one of the starting players on the rugby team.  He’s also pretty intelligent for his age.  Even though he’s in the 11th grade, he’s only 14 years old, but rather than being friends with/relating to the freshmen on campus more, his best friends are all three years older than him.  How does Valentine’s Day fit into all this?  Ryan Dean has fallen for his best friend, Annie.  Of course another classmate, Megan, is starting to show interest in him too, but the twist is Megan is dating Ryan Dean’s very large, very intimidating hulk of a roommate, Chas and Ryan Dean’s friend, J.P. has asked Annie out as well just to keep this web of relationships interesting.

For all you Valentine’s Day haters out there, this is not a lovey-dovey book  I do think this book was originally intended for a male audience.  Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty of females that would like it too (myself included).  Smith, the author, does a nice job painting a realistic picture of how most high school guys think, because he was once one himself.  The book is laced with profanity on just about every page.  I’m personally not shocked by it, because the reality is high school students swear, and based on what I hear in the hallways, high school students swear a lot when it’s not really necessary and really doesn’t fit the situation.  Just like at FHS, these kids simply swear, because they can.

I will state though, that the book is written very well!  It’s hilarious, easy to visualize (Ryan Dean is also a decent artist and sometimes journals via cartoons or writes notes to his friends via cartoons about what he’s thinking---very much like the Origami Yoda books and other sketch books out there, but it’s not on every page and it’s much more professional looking), and the plot is constantly moving forward.  When you think the main character is a guy with constant bad luck, something redeeming and exciting happens and you find yourself rooting for the guy and cheering him on, then soon after you’ll start to pity him and feel sorry for the guy, but no worries, within the next couple of pages, you’ll be smiling again.  I enjoy the roller coaster of emotions rather than reading multiple pages in a row of dark and depressing plot points.

Does the book you’re currently reading remind you of any books you’ve read in the past?  How are they similar?  I know some of you have finished a book recently based on discussions we’ve had in class.  Were you satisfied with the ending?  Why or why not?

I’m really enjoying this novel.  Smith also has a new book coming out titled 100 Sideways Miles.  The cover on this one doesn’t disappoint either with an upside down horse falling through the sky.  I have zero idea what the book is about, but I’m definitely intrigued.  How would you judge the cover of the book  you’re currently reading?  Is that why you picked it?  I know they say, “Never judge a book by it’s cover.” but it’s a marketing tool and it’s art.  What might make a more effective cover for your book?

I think what has really sold me with Winger is the voice in the writing.  This story is told from a first person point of view and Ryan Dean is the type of person most of us can relate to, because he’s not perfect.  I personally enjoy his sarcasm, the ability to laugh at himself, the ability to admit when he’s wrong, and the ability to be gutsy, push the envelope, and stick up from himself.  What point of view is your book written in (1st, 2nd, or 3rd person)?  Do you find your main character likeable?  At the beginning of the book he was that short, tiny guy in his class these older kids kind of liked to tease or treat more like a little brother, but halfway through the book, Ryan Dean gains this confidence that makes you wonder what he’s going to do or say next.

Look back on your colored packet for tips on topics to write about when constructing your letter this week.  Happy Friday!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Enos

Fact vs. Opinion Practice

 Test your knowledge of deciphering from what is a fact and what is an opinion statement.  Do Levels A, B, and C in alphabetical order.  

 http://www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise/quiz/en06opin-l1-quiz

Studying for Friday's Vocabulary Quiz!

Click on the following Quizlet link to study for Friday's vocabulary quiz!

http://quizlet.com/26002801/test?matching=on&mult_choice=on&tf=on&prompt-with=1&limit=8

FACT vs. OPINION

Here is today's Prezi presentation over Fact vs. Opinion.  Feel free to re-watch/review the material.
http://prezi.com/xmovrn8gmjz3/facts-vs-opinion/

Great Independent Reading Tips!

6 Important Tips for ATTACKING Those Paragraphs 

WHEN READING FOR HOMEWORK OR A TEST!

Click on the link below to fill in your study guide notes about "The Six Steps to Attacking Reading Paragraphs".   CAUTION:  EXTREME CHEESINESS IS IN YOUR NEAR FUTURE!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cxllqT01rE

Reading a History Textbook is like Reading a Story!

 

    Do you have trouble remembering what you just read out of the chapter in your History textbook?  Yes, there may be a lot of pages, thus a lot of facts, dates, and events to remember, but try looking at the text you're reading in a different way.
     History is incredibly interesting!  Just like when you watch a captivating movie or an intriguing book, see your history textbook as a historical story.  Think about it.  Every historical event you read about has a beginning, middle, and an end (plot).  There is a time and location (setting), people involved with that event (characters), some kind of issue, problem, dilemma or drama (conflict), and if it's a part of the past/history, some type of finality to it (resolution).
     We will be reviewing the reading out of your history textbooks from yesterday, "The Watergate Scandal" and then mapping out this section into story form.  Readers will remember the important details of a captivating story and by reading your History textbook with the perspective that this is an important, factual retelling, you can better remember the details of the material!

 Use your hard copy 13-Step Directions to complete today's assignment.

*If you finish early you may read the Fremont Tribune and/or your choice reading book until the bell rings.

Click on the following link to get started: http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/storymap/

Reading Strategies for Your History Textbook

 

Today we will be reading a section out of your U.S. History textbook that focuses on our 35th president, John F. Kennedy.

Our during-reading strategy will be using sticky-notes to bookmark important information of this biography for future recall.

Directions:

1). A sticky note pad will make it's way around to you.  Please take 11 stick notes

2). Write the following labels on your sticky notes:

* #1 - Name

* #1 - Time Period

*#1 - Place

*#2 - Occupation

*#2 - End

*#3 - Personality

*#4 - Accomplishment

*#4 - Accomplishment

*#5 - Challenge

*#5 - Challenge

*#6 - Quote

3). While we read, place the labeled sticky notes directly on your photocopied section where they apply.

4). Click on the following link to create a bio-cube as a 3-D way to create notes for this section for future recall. http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/cube_creator/

5). Use your sticky noted sections of the reading to help you fill out the prompts on the bio cube.  

6). When you have finished, print off your bio cube, 3-hole punch your work (if you use a binder), and keep both the sticky-noted textbook section and your bio-cube together to turn in with this week's graded binder work on Friday.

7). If you get done early, you may silently read or peruse Mrs. Enos' classroom website (sound off please).

8). IF YOU THINK YOU WILL RUN OUT OF TIME = Print off what you have so far, then fill in the remaining boxes with your hand-written answers.  WORK IS DUE WITH YOUR FRIDAY BINDER/FOLDER.

Math Requires You to READ!

You might be wondering, "What does Math have to do with my Reading class?"  Whether you're looking at a story problem or an equation, you're reading!  We will be learning how best to READ MATH!

Click on the following link below and choose from the video list to get great tips and advice when taking Math tests!

12 Tips for Math Test-Taking
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0P5U9s4wYE&list=PLD15DF1C98D5F1197

Welcome to Reading 9-10!

Reading 9/10 Syllabus

Teacher: Mrs. Enos

Classroom Website: http://readwithenos.blogspot.com

School E-mail: Laura.Enos@fpsmail.org

Room: B106                                                  

Welcome to Reading 9/10!  This course offers you the opportunity to grow as a reader, reflector and analyzer.  Whether you feel in this moment that improving your reading and vocabulary skills is important to you or not, hopefully by the end of the semester you will see how applicable the issues we cover in class are connected to the topics and situations that you will be faced with beyond this classroom experience.  Remember, we aren’t all starting at the same place—our strengths and weaknesses are as varied as our personalities.  Each of us can improve this year if we work together to build a strong classroom community.  In other words:  We must respect each other!

Materials:

* A notebook or binder with paper (this will be used for brainstorming, in-class activities, journaling, written reflections, homework and background notes)

*A folder/binder/organizer to store your daily assignments  (don’t throw anything away that hasn’t been graded or is on colored paper!  When in doubt, just ask.)

*Pencils

*Highlighter (optional)

*Google Account login & password We do complete writing assignments using google docs. through our email account.

          

Agenda:

           Writing(Good Writers Make for Good Readers): This will entail journaling,

           personal reflections, formulating discussion questions, brainstorming, outlining, and

            essay writing.            

Reading: We will examine a variety of authors and a variety of literary genres:

novels (choice reading and literature circles), fictional short stories (including all fictional sub-genres), poetry, non-fiction (a variety of examples), and drama.

Text Schedule: Quarter A will be predominantly nonfiction and Quarter B will mostly entail fictional pieces in regards to the types of texts we’ll be reading for classroom lessons..

       

Choice Reading: Our reading goal for the year is that every student reads for at least 100 minutes/week (For example: That would be the equivalent of reading 20 minutes a day for 5 days with 2 days off) at or above his/her reading level.  A log will be kept where an adult (family member, friend, teacher, mentor, etc.) will sign off, witnessing and verifying what you’ve read and length of time.  There will be some silent reading time built into the week as well that can go towards these 100 minutes since I know many of you work/have a job outside of the school day or are involved in extracurricular activities.

Quizzes: Vocabulary quizzes (new words, prefixes and suffixes)  will be given periodically with the purpose of checking your knowledge, progression, and mastery of the material.  Essentially, are you understanding the information being learned in class?

Texts/Exams: Tests will be given at the completion of each quarter (CRTs - cold reads). There will always be an in-class review and study guide given prior to the test.  We will also have a reading comprehension pre and post assessment to measure your individual growth (Did your skills improve over the 18 weeks we were in class together?), and we will do continuous reading fluency checks with the goal of improving on your pronunciation and fluidity skills while you read.

Homework: In addition to sustained silent reading in the home/outside of school, each Friday your notebook/writing binder will be turned into your teacher including the following:

* a “letter-essay” to reflect on what you’ve been reading (examples and further explanation will be given

* journaling we’ve done throughout the week

*In-class activities completed on notebook paper as opposed to a handout

*Newspaper/Informational print comprehension homework: You will receive a free copy of the Fremont Tribune each Thursday and the accompanying assignment will be due the next day/Friday.

*Notes taken in class

*All of the work we’ve done during the week will be turned in for feedback,

evaluation and credit/a grade in the grade book.  Every day counts so your

attendance is very important!

Homework Policy Philosophy:

-          developed by the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (2005) found on http:// www.netc.org/focus/strategies/home.php

• Homework provides time outside of the classroom for students to practice and deepen their understanding of the content being presented in class.
• Homework is meant to be set at an appropriate level based on a student’s prior knowledge or level of exposure to specific content.
• Regardless of student ability or prior coursework, the amount of time students actively and attentively devote to homework increases their achievement.(Keith & Cool, 1992)
• Feedback will be given along with a grade for all turned in homework assignments.  I make an effort for assigned homework to not be “busywork” but to possess quality/purpose in your child’s learning experience.

• Parent Involvement:
• Students and/or Parents should set regular time frames, a place to focus, and clear expectations for where and when their children will work on homework.
• Encourage the following skills with your child throughout the school year: responsibility, confidence, persistence, goal-setting, and planning.
• Facilitate homework completion, not teach content
• Encouraging healthy study habits supports learning.  Not only will your child see and feel the reward for his/her efforts, but they will grow in their ability to effectively handle areas of difficulty (Bempechat 2004).

Grading: assignment grades are based on total points—every assignment counts!

·         A = 100% - 93%

·         B = 92% - 86%

·         C = 85% -78%

·         D = 77% -70%

·         F = 69% - Below

·         You will receive two days for every one day missed of class to make up any homework (school policy) that was given/assigned the day of your absence.

Late Homework: A student can turn in completed-late work the following day for a 70%.  After that, up to a 50% can be earned (again the work must be fully completed).  If your IEP qualifies you for extended time, that will be honored, but please be proactive and discuss the need for an extension with your teacher.  We will work together to come up with the best solution.

Extra Credit:  Will not be given.  If you have an idea for an alternative to an assignment given, please discuss with your teacher the possibility for an alternative product to turn in to show me what you’ve learned.  Rather than ask about extra credit, we will be focusing on not settling for zeros in the gradebook and working to our highest ability.

Procedures/Rules:

·         Tardiness: If you arrive late to class, you must have a legitimate pass from a FHS staff member.

·         Etiquette: It is important that all students treat one another with kindness and respect.  The Student Handbook clearly defines the school’s expectations. The rules of the Student Handbook will be enforced at all times in this classroom.  Please respect the learning environment to avoid a consequence for a poor choice. If a behavior issue arises, parental units and administration will be contacted immediately to best address the issue.  Also, always clean up your work area before leaving my room, don’t leave a mess behind you.  If you borrow my materials, please return them promptly (pencils, erasers, etc.).

Leaving the Room: Restroom and water breaks should be taken care of during the passing period.   I will make exceptions if you have special needs or are not feeling well, but please let me know at the start of class or ask for a pass (all passes will be given on the day’s date of your student planner/agenda---No planner = no hallway pass).  

I’m looking forward to an enriching semester!

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(Please cut off this bottom portion and turn it into Mrs. Enos by Friday, August 15th).

I understand and agree to the class expectations explained in the provided syllabus.

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Student Signature Parent/Guardian Signature