Mrs. Beth Spataro
7th Grade Language Arts
Pathfinders Team Leader
(919)560-3970 ext. 70440
beth.spataro@dpsnc.net
Seventh grade language arts focus is oral language, written language, and media and technology for expressive, informational, argumentative, critical, and literary purposes. Students will also explore the structure of language and study grammatical rules in order to speak and write effectively.
General Information about Our Class
As a class, we will be exploring the world of literature through a variety of genre and using reading strategies that will allow the reader to make the most of the meaning of the text. We will also work diligently through the writing process giving students experience in the different forms of written expression as well as improving grammar and sentence structure.
* Advanced placement classes will follow the N.C. Standard Course of Study as well as integrating the William and Mary Curriculum for High-Ability Learners. The Persuasion Unit of Study provides the resources and rigor required to challenge our high-ability learners.
* Holt: Elements of Literature is the textbook for seventh grade. A textbook will not be assigned to students for home use. I use supplemental resources to integrate quality, high interest literature that may not be in our textbook. If a reading is required for homework, a copy will be provided to each student.
* Students will be required to read at least one novel each quarter and complete a presentation/book report each quarter.
* Students will visit the library every two weeks as a class. Students are encouraged to check out a library book of individual interest and read independently each evening. Reading independently is a requirement during Core Plus if the students has no other assignments to complete. If students have an over due account in the library, they will be unable to check out a library book until their account is cleared. Please make every effort to return library books on time and/or replace lost books.
* Students will be working with the computers continuously throughout the school year. If a students does not have an internet permission slip on file, please return one as soon as possible. Not having a permission slip on file may hinder your ability to complete activities in class.
* Grades will be percentage based. Percentages will change each quarter due to the different requirements and instruction per quarter.
* Students will be required to keep a writing portfolio. During the seventh grade, students will focus on each writing genre and write several examples of each. Examples will be kept in a portfolio folder in the language arts classroom.
* Students should copy their homework from the board into their agenda at the start of each class period. I will monitor student participation of this activity during the first quarter by stamping agenda books each day. Please follow up with your student each evening to monitor that they are completing their responsibilities of successful students.
* Homework is to be turned in on the assigned due date. Homework that is not turned in on the required due date will receive a zero grade until the assignment is turned in. Students will be able to utilize Core Plus time to make up assignments, complete missed test, and request additional help on concepts they do not understand.
* If students were absent, it is their responsibility to inquire about any missed materials and/or assignments. In accordance with Durham Public School Policy, absent students will have a minimum of five (5) days to make up missed work.
Classroom Expectations:
Please review Pathfinder Procedures Powerpoint
* Come prepared to class each day with a pen, paper, binder with a language arts section, homework and writing journal. No cell phones, I pods, or other electronics are allowed in the classroom. If they are found, according to school policy I reserve the right to take them and return them to a parent or guardian. We are here to learn. These instruments are not part of the learning process.
* Wait quietly in a line outside the classroom. Do not enter the classroom until you have been invited by myself to enter.
* Enter the room quietly and take your seat without interrupting others. Begin writing the evenings homework in your agenda and take out any homework assigned within previous class sessions.
* There is not a pencil sharpener in the classroom. If you prefer to write with a pencil make sure it is
sharpened before you come to class and you have a backup writing implement.
* Always use small inside voices in the classroom. A loud classroom interrupts other classes around us and disrupts learning.
* Once I have called the class to order, all quiet side bar conversations must end and remain ended till a more appropriate time.
* Once class has started, please do not get out of your seat to throw trash away, get tissue, sharpen pencils, etc. unless you have permission.
* Always raise your hand during class discussions and you will have your turn to speak.
* There are designated locker and restroom breaks built into our team schedule. Please use them effectively. You will not have an opportunity during class time unless it is an extreme emergency.
* I will dismiss you when class is over. Please collect all your belongings and take them with you. If you created any trash during class pick it up and place it in the trash can.
* Please be aware that the classroom cabinets, drawers, team phone, and my desk are off limits to students. I will respect your belongings so please respect mine.
* The classroom materials are for all Pathfinder students to use. Please respect them. If we waste or mistreat what we have they may not be replaced. This means we will have to do without.
* Lastly, always respect yourself and those around you. Treat others as you would like to be treated and you will receive the same treatment in return. Remember. . .
Together Everyone Achieves More!
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