Providing a rigorous program in writing from Vocabulary development to proper MLA style writing, the Jr. High Language Arts program challenges our students to become well rounded learners.
Beginning in 6th grade, students are exposed to a different form of vocabulary knowledge that cares them well into the 8th grade year. This program is intended to enrich the growing mind with a broad base of word knowledge.
Expanding on the writing styles, our Jr. High students work to a level of readiness that more than prepares them for the High School challenge.
Bellwork:
When you come into the classroom each day, there will be a brief bellwork to complete. Bellworks are short writing activities that should be completed in the first five minutes of class. These activities will count for a completion grade, so you want to begin them as soon as you enter the classroom. You will keep track of your bellworks in a spiral bound notebook. You will need to bring this notebook as well as a pencil to class each day. The bellwork notebook will be collected each day and kept in the classroom.
Absent Work:
If you are absent from class, you need to contact me to make up the work you missed. Students who are absent will have as many days as they missed to complete missing work.
Late Work:
Projects and assignments must be turned in by the deadline in order for students to receive full credit. Late work will receive a deduction of one letter grade. I will not accept late work that is five or more days past the deadline. If a student is missing three or more assignments or a major project, that student will need to stay in for lunch/recess to complete the assignment.
Revision Policy:
Students are able to revise any written assignment for an improved grade; however, before you revise you will need to meet with me to create a plan for revision. Students will have a week to revise the assignment after the revision plan is created. No late revisions will be accepted.
Retakes:
Test retakes will be allowed for any student who earns a D or lower. Students will be allowed one retake per trimester. These students will be given partial credit up to 76 percent. It is up to the student to ask me if they can retake their test. The student must set up an appointment to retake their test within two days of receiving their grade. Any student retaking their exam, must have their test signed by a parent.
Grading:
All assignments will be assigned points; those points will then be weighted depending upon the category the assignment falls into.
Grading Categories:
40%— Papers and Projects
30%—Tests and Quizzes
20%—Homework
10 %—Participation
Extra Credit:
Students will not have opportunities to earn extra credit. Therefore, it is especially important for students to complete all assignments on time and to take advantage of the revision policy as needed.
Discipline:
Please see the student handbook for information regarding the discipline policy.
Technology in the Classroom:
As a reminder, cell phones should not be seen or heard during class; otherwise, the phone will be taken and will need to be picked up by a parent.
We will use our Chromebooks frequently during class. These devices are learning resources and you need to use them responsibly. If you are not on task or are using your Chromebook to view non-school-related websites, you will receive a Chromebook violation.
Extra Help:
I am available after school everyday (except Tuesday) until 4 for students who need extra help or have questions. I am also available before school by appointment. I also encourage you to email me with questions. I check my email frequently and usually respond to messages with in a 24-hour period.
St. Cletus Grading Scale:
A+ 99%
A 95%
A- 93%
B+ 91%
B 87%
B- 85%
C+ 83%
C 79%
C- 77%
D+ 75%
D 71%
D- 69%
U 67%
Textbooks:
Materials:
You are responsible for coming to class prepared. Students who frequently come to class unprepared may have participation points deducted from their grade, as a student cannot fully participate in class if they do not have the materials they need for success. Each day you come to class, you should bring:
Projects and assignments must be turned in by the deadline in order for students to receive full credit. Late work will receive a deduction of one letter grade. I will not accept late work that is five or more days past the deadline. If a student is missing three or more assignments or a major project, that student will need to stay in for lunch/recess to complete the assignment.
Electronic Textbooks
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