ELA 2012 - Jamesville-DeWitt Central School District

Language Arts with Mrs. WalshSeptember 2012During the double period of LA we will develop a respectful community of readers, writers, speakers,and listeners. We will spend a lot of time together this year!Materials Provided: Scott Foresman reader, spelling, grammar, and practice books.Materials From Home:2 two-pocket folders1” binder to keep in the classroom3x5 index cards (100-200)General supplies to be used in all classes: colored pencils, loose leaf, pencils, highlighter, pens,flash drive, (suggested: pencil case, scissors, glue)Scott Foresman Reading Program K-6 th Students familiar with the program will recognize theanthology, as well as the spelling, grammar and practice books.Selection Tests will be given to assess vocabulary, reading skills, and comprehension.Unit Tests (multiple choice and written response) will be given five times this year.Spelling Quizzes will be held each Friday.Grammar skills will also be assessed in writing pieces and quizzes.Novels will provide opportunities to learn new vocabulary and investigate character, setting, plot, andconflict/resolution elements of literature. Students will read independently, in small groups, and as awhole class. Reading will be followed by group discussion, written responses, and book report projects.Students will record their reading of at least 25 novels this year.Reading Log (RL) with a guardian signature will be collected. Daily reading helps strengthen readingand writing skills. Students should bring a book to class each day. Please encourage your child to readdaily for a total of at least 100 minutes a week.Writing assignments may be “quick-writes” or process pieces. (typed or handwritten)

Homework assignments are assigned four or five nights a week. Always check my teacher page andhomework board in class. I post daily homework assignments and upcoming assessments. I try to uploadworksheets and packets, too! Helping your child to organize materials and time may be a challenge this year.Nightly ELA homework should require no more than 30 minutes. There will also be mini-projects tocomplete. Work diligently, and ask for help if you need it. Practice and learn from your mistakes! Students willreceive a lower grade for work handed in late. Homework handed in more than two days after the due datewill receive NO credit.Absent students are expected to hand in work previously assigned. Students must ask to find out what workwas missed in class and assigned for homework.Music Lesson attendance is encouraged. Students should ask BEFORE going and drop off homeworkBEFORE attending the lesson. On occasion, students will be asked to remain in math class to complete theactivity. If math class is missed, students must make-up class work and come prepared the next day.Grades will be posted on an on-line gradebook for families to view. We have a new system. Please be patient.Students will receive grades for homework, work completed in class, and a variety of assessments (tests andquizzes). Keep an eye out for more information that will be sent home to help you access your child’s account.Additional help…just ask! I volunteer to work with students during lunch, study hall, and my planningperiods. Set-up a time, and we will work together!Class Rules:Try your best no matter how large or small the task.Make eye contact when speaking to someone.Be prepared for the start of class.Always say please and thank you.Sixth Grade Student Responsibilities: Always give it your best shot! Be on-time. Being tardy three times results in a student lunch detention. Be prepared. Be sure to check the list of materials on the board. You’ll always need somethingto write with and a reading book. Additional help is offered at lunch and study hall by request.

Dear Parents/Guardians:Welcome to sixth grade! I get the pleasure of educating your child during the school day, but I need yourhelp. Reading takes place in and out of school. Students must read a minimum of 100 minutes per week.In an effort to learn more about my students, I would appreciate thoughts about your child as a readerand a writer. Please write a letter to me about your child. You may include any information you want meto know. If you need a starting point, here are a few questions you may want to answer:What is your child’ writing history? Reading history?What are your child’s reading/writing habits? Interests? Favorite books?What are your child’s reading/writing strengths and weaknesses?What is your goal for your child in ELA this year?You may send it with your child or write an e mail. I will not share these letters with your childwithout your permission. Please keep in touch throughout the school year. Mrs. Lisa Walsh lwalsh@jd.cnyric.org