Welcome to this wonderful adventure known as 8th grade English! Eighth grade English is a chance to explore a variety of language experiences. In other words, there is something for everyone (at least I've tried really hard to make it that way). Here is a look at what lies ahead.
Writing promotes fluency in language and is a vital part of this course. Students will do some form of writing nearly every day. We'll cover everything from journalism to fiction, and poetry to personal experience.
Reading opportunities are abundant in this class since frequent reading promotes literacy, comprehension, and improved writing skills. We study a variety of short stories, poetry, novels, and plays. We will also work hard to prepare ourselves for the PSSA Reading Assessment Test to be taken next semester.
Speaking and Listening are talents that all 8th graders possess. They are especially gifted at speaking. Standing in the cafeteria at lunchtime verifies this. This course will refine both of these essential skills through class and group discussions as well as formal speech opportunities.
Spelling and Vocabulary are weekly events. The words will be selected from the units of study.
Classroom Activities and Lessons are carefully planned for maximum learning potential. If a student says, "We didn't do anything in English today," parents should be skeptical. If you'd like to know what lessons/activities went on in class, please check my website (www.geocities.com/kzeglen) and click on Eighth Grade English. I try to update it weekly with the upcoming week's lesson plans.
Now, here's a look at a few of the business aspects of the class.
Homework assigned depends upon the current unit of study. I prefer that students do the majority of assignments in class so that my help is readily available to them. However, there are times, especially when we read novels or do projects, where homework can be a nightly event. If you want to know what homework has been assigned and when it's due, check my website.
Incomplete Assignments are not accepted. My job is to help kids learn. Students learn more about the content taught and the fulfillment of responsibility from a completed assignment than an incomplete one.
Late Assignments are accepted in most cases. If I won't accept it late, students will be told at the time the assignment is given. Late work receives 1/2 credit of the original score. Work not turned in when it is called for in class, will be considered late.
If the Student is Absent the day an assignment is due, it is still eligible for full credit if it's turned in the day the student returns to class. If an assignment is given the day a student is absent, the student is responsible getting the assignment the day of return and completing it as instructed at that time in order to avoid earning late credit.
Tests & Quizzes missed due to absence must be made up the day the student returns.
Grades and assignments are posted on Lettergrade. Please understand that it might take me a few days to record grades. Earning an A requires consistent hard work and effort. Failing requires a seriously negative attitude and a profound commitment to non-productivity (a.k.a. laziness). Students will be given a grade report at the end of each term that must be signed by a parent and returned. Feel free to request progress reports any time.
Extra Credit Opportunities are offered each term. All the students receive the same opportunities. I don't give extra credit to panicked individuals making a last minute attempt to redeem a grade. Students who make an honest effort throughout the term, won't need to panic.
Citizenship expectations are high in my class. Everyone's efforts are required to create a positive learning environment, but it only takes the actions of one to destroy it. Honor citizenship goes to students who accomplish the following:
1- Pay attention and actively volunteer and participate in class discussions and activities every day. (Sitting quietly everyday is fine, but it doesn't merit honor citizenship.)
2- Always be prepared with materials, assignments, etc.
3- Never create discipline problems/ distractions for yourself or others.
4- Maintain a positive attitude (no whining) and show respect for yourself and others.
5- Have no more than one tardy per six-week period.
6- Make me smile/laugh daily. (OK... that's not really a requirement, but it wouldn't hurt.)
Wow! It's almost mind-boggling that so much could be packed into 180 days. I believe that if students dig in with enthusiasm and imagination, by next June we will all marvel at their long list of accomplishments. If, by chance, students find themselves not adoring everything we do in class, my advice is to make a reasonable attempt to act excited and motivated. They just might be shocked to discover that a positive attitude makes every situation better. Thanks for reading through all that information. If you have questions during the year, please let me know. I look forward to working with you this year.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Kristen Zeglen