Language Arts 1

Language Arts 1

Class Summary:

Language Arts 1 builds off of everything you have learned in middle school. We will be studying all the aspects of language: reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing.

Skills and Goals:

As we progress through the semester, we will be working to improve your reading stamina, comprehension, and close and critical skills as well as your writing and discussion skills.

Class Materials:

ü  Composition Notebook (for your Interactive Notebook)

ü  Loose-leaf lined paper

ü  Folder or binder to hold handouts

ü  Glue sticks

ü  Pencil or Pen

ü  Suggested: Highlighters, Colored Pencils, Markers, Art Materials, Index Cards, Post-it Notes

What you must bring with you to class EVERY DAY:

ü  DHS Planner (no planner, no passes)

ü  ID (Media Center usage)

ü  Interactive Notebook and Folder

ü  SSR+ (individual choice) book

ü  Writing supplies and glue stick

Class Structure

There is an in/out box located in the classroom with designations by hour. In the same location, you can also find the previous weeks’ assignments (this is where you check for any absent or missing handouts). All assignments will also be posted on the blog.

Grading Policy:

We follow the school’s policy of 80% Summative (tests, essays, projects) and 20% Formative (classwork, homework, participation). Assignments will be turned in complete and on time. With teacher approval, assignments may be accepted late – for reduced credit.

Extra credit assignments will be assigned periodically throughout the semester but are only available to those students with no missing assignments.

Any copying of classmates’ assignments or plagiarism will result in a ZERO.

The most important thing to understand is that your teachers do NOT give you grades. You EARN your grades through your own hard work and effort!!

“Teachers open the door. You enter by yourself.” - Chinese Proverb

100-94 A

93-90 A-

89-87 B+

86-84 B

83-80 B-

79-77 C+

76-74 C

73-70 C-

69-67 D+

66-64 D

63-60 D-

59-0 E

“Teachers open the door. You enter by yourself.” - Chinese Proverb

Contact Information:

If you or your parents have any questions or concerns, please let us know! The best way to reach us is email, but we are also available by phone.

iBlog: iblog.dearbornschools.org/9thla

Email:

Phone: (313) 827-7807 (313) 827-8202

Classroom Norms and Expected Behaviors:

·  Gum, Food and Drink: You are welcome to have a drink with you in class – so long as it has a top/cap. If you have a documented health reason to require food during the hour, that is the only exception. If you want to chew gum – dispose of it in the trash can. If we find students sticking gum on our bookshelves/cabinets/tables/chairs – EVERYONE will lose the privilege.

·  Classroom Care: Our classroom is available for everyone – so everyone needs to share responsibility for its appearance.

o  Do not write on desks or leave trash/gum behind.

o  If you use materials, make sure you return them to the correct place.

o  Leave chairs pushed in and books neatly arranged on the bookshelves.

o  Take ownership and help contribute to our beautiful classroom’s upkeep (even if you aren’t the one who made the mess)!

·  Cell Phone Usage: Cell phones should be turned to silent and kept out of sight during class. The only exception is when the green signal bar is placed on the front white board. This is visual permission that it is acceptable to use your phone – for class-related activities only. You may not charge your phone in our classroom. If you don’t use it, the battery won’t drain J

Contract of Agreement:

My parents/guardians and I have read over the LA1 syllabus and agree to all of the requirements and expectations included.

“Teachers open the door. You enter by yourself.” - Chinese Proverb

Student Signature:

Parent Signature:

“Teachers open the door. You enter by yourself.” - Chinese Proverb

Please subscribe (both students and parents) to the class blog by 9/8 for a grade: iblog.dearbornschools.org/9thla

“Teachers open the door. You enter by yourself.” - Chinese Proverb