Welcome to 6th Grade Language Arts! Mrs. Spina, Room 308 Miss Sheridan, Room 310

Contact Information Email: dspina@cwcboe.org Website: www.cwcboe.org/gcms Email is best! Extra Help Hours: 8:15-8:30 am/3:00-3:30pm (or by appointment)

Goals for the Year Increased Literacy: Elevated reading comprehension Elevated critical thinking skills (lots of “why?” “how?” and explaining!) Elevated writing skills (organization, depth, length) Improved Speaking and Listening: Broaden vocabulary Refine communication skills Refine listening skills

Reading TC model- focuses on strategies to help students to become “middle school” thinkers and readers Four core texts: Because of Mr. Terupt, Among the Hidden, The Giver, Memories of Anne Frank Selected short stories and nonfiction passages Book club books Independent novels

Writing When we read, we write! Narrative writing Text-based evidence writing Expository Essay Journal writing Strategies based approach- graphic organizers, acronyms, and workshopping Feedback is both verbal and written

Homework Website Homework Website: Go to www.cwcboe.org/gcms Click “staff.” Click Dana Spina. Click “Homework Calendar.” Click on the gray box. Assignments will ONLY pop up in a new screen when the gray box is clicked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grades/Gradebook Q: My child was absent, and there is a 0 or “F” in the gradebook for an assignment due that day. Why? A: The zero acts as a place holder in the gradebook, indicating that the assignment has not been handed in yet. When the student returns from their absence, and hands the assignment in, the grade will be changed.

Grades/Gradebook Q: I see that my child has a 0 or “F” in the gradebook for an assignment. Why? A: If a student is not absent, the zero, or “F” could be for one of the following reasons: the assignment was not handed in at all, the assignment was handed in over one day late, or the assignment was not complete enough to earn any credit.

Grades/Gradebook Q: I saw my child’s completed homework at home, but it is a zero in the gradebook. Why? A: Chances are, the assignment never made it to class! It could still be in your child’s locker, or folder. A quick reminder to turn it in would be helpful!

Grades/Gradebook Q: I keep checking gradebook, and it seems as though grades have not been updated in awhile. What is the reason for this? A: Grades are updated as frequently as possible so that you can get an accurate picture of how your child is doing. However, there are times when there are not many grades. Holidays, standardized testing days, or long term projects are usually factors that hinder grades from being updated as frequently as usual.

Grades/Rubrics Q: I don’t understand the grade that my child got on a particular assignment. How should I begin? A: The best place to start is with your child. Most assignments are graded with a rubric, with comments. If they are not able to explain why they earned the grade they did, send them in so that I can explain it to them, and they, in turn, can explain it to you. If you’re still unclear, feel free to email.

Study Habits Q: How can I encourage better study habits at home while still encouraging independence? A: Urge your child to check the website and gradebook. Provide a quiet study space at home. Create a routine. Encourage re-reading of homework and writing assignments. Encourage your child to take advantage of extra help sessions.

Study Habits Q: Since my child is now in middle school, I’ve adopted a “hands off approach.” I’ve discovered that this isn’t working. How do I achieve a balance? A: While we encourage fostering independence in middle school, students do need help balancing multiple classes, teachers, and their extra-curricular activities. Check in with them periodically, encourage good study habits, and ask them to seek the help of teachers.

Independent Reading Q: What should I expect when I hear that my child has independent reading? A: The TC model encourages lots of reading! Please encourage your child to choose a book that they’re interested in. They should be reading a minimum of 20 minutes a night.

Helpful Resources http://www.whatshouldireadnext.com/ https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/bookwizard/

Expectations of… me! 100% effort at all times Open, prompt communication (email is best) Available for extra help Grades will be posted Provide your child with strategies and skills necessary to make them productive and literate individuals

Expectations of Students 100% effort at all times Seek extra help when needed Come to class prepared and ready to learn Keep an open mind Be honest RESPECT- self, adults, and others

Expectations of Parents Facilitate independence Encourage literacy Encourage reading (ANYTHING!!!) Read and comment on writing Discuss school- ask for papers! Check the website- homework & grades Keep me posted on any questions, concerns, or issues!

Grades New grading scale: 100-91 = A 90-81 = B 80-71 = C 70-63 = D 62-0 = F Grades will be listed as numbers on the report card.

Website Under construction! Check out: Tips for 6th grade students & parents Basic skills worksheet Novels to be studied (will be updated) Homework calendar