Course+Description

7 th Grade Language Arts/Writing Chapman Middle School 2011-2012



Instructor: Mr. Matt Dalke Work 785-922-6555 (ext. 321) mdalke@473mail.net

Course Descriptions:

Classes are designed to increase proficiency in the four components: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. We will be reading narrative, expository, technical, and persuasive text types throughout the year. The 6-Trait Model will be used when scoring most writing assignments. Students will give various presentations to the class which will be scored using a presentation rubric. Listening to teacher lecture as well as participating in class discussions is essential for success in class.

Course Objectives:

• The student will write a narrative piece. • The student will write an expository piece. • The student will write a persuasive piece. • The student will write a technical piece. • The student will write and send an e-mail or memo. • The student will prepare numerous Keynote presentations. • The student will prepare a presentation using Microsoft Publisher. • The student will demonstrate understanding of an oral message by accurately summarizing it in writing or by answering written questions. • The student will listen to peers to complete a given task. • The student will demonstrate the ability to speak to peers. • The student will compare/contrast the video and written version of the same work by writing a comparison/contrast paper. • The student reads and comprehends text across the curriculum.

Text: • Prentice Hall Literature, Copyright 1994 • Prentice Hall Writer’s Companion, Copyright 1995

Assessments: • Active Class Participation <span class="style_2">• Bell Ringers <span class="style_2">• Reading Counts <span class="style_2">• Quizzes <span class="style_2">• Exams <span class="style_2">• Presentations <span class="style_2">• Products

Main Classroom Rule: <span class="style_2">• Students need to show <span class="style_1">respect for self and others

Make-Up Work: All school work missed may be made up without penalty following an excused absence. Please refer to the student handbook for make-up work policies.

School Activities: If a student is absent from class due to a school activity, it is the responsibility of the student to see the teacher prior to the absence. The make-up work for the missed class is due in accordance with district policy and is listed in the student handbook.

Prime Time: Prime Time is used for students to practice their silent reading skills. Every Monday – Friday, students will be required to read from a Reading Counts book of their choice. Students are required to attain 36 points each nine weeks through the completion of Reading Counts material and subsequent exams. Reading Counts accounts for 20% of the student’s Language Arts grade.