Mrs. Natalie Aspaas Academic Expectations Language Arts 1-2 Mrs. Natalie Aspaas Academic Expectations 623-376-3141 Natalie.aspaas@dvusd.org

Language Arts 1-2 Writing Writing Components: Explanatory, informational as argumentation, literary analysis, and narrative. Types of writing: Microthemes, journals, research skills and essays, and time capsules Revisions are welcomed!!! Use office hours!

Writing Skills as a Focus: Write arguments to support claims in analysis Use valid reasoning Write to examine and convey complex ideas through effective organization Develop writing skills in: word choice, ideas, voice, sentence fluency, conventions, and organization

Vocabulary 10-15 words every other Friday. Quiz every 2 weeks. (Include definitions and sentences) High-frequency words on standardized testing, class specific words such as literary terms, and words student will encounter in the reading for the week.

Language Skills Focuses on the following: clarity (i.e. combining sentences and active-vs-passive verbs) grammar (i.e. verb tense and the parts of speech) Punctuation (i.e. apostrophes and semicolons) Mechanics (i.e. abbreviations and italics) Grammar will be taught in mini lessons with practice assignments. Grammar will be demonstrated in student writing.

First Semester Reading To Kill a Mockingbird The Odyssey Non-fiction related texts Other related readings It is suggested that students get their own copy if possible for annotations.

Second Semester Reading Romeo and Juliet The Glass Castle Non-fiction related materials Other related materials Again, suggested to purchase a copy of Shakespeare Made Easy.

Reading Skills as a Focus: Analyzing texts for author’s style, central idea, author’s purpose Citing strong textual evidence to support analysis

Speaking and Listening Socratic Seminars Agree/Disagree Class discussions Interviews Participation is required.

Technology Students can use calendar or notes on phone to save homework. Students can take a picture of the weekly board on Mondays. Students can use e-readers with permission Weekly emails Students need ipads-charged Students will submit essays to turnitin.com. Checks for plagiarism, on-line discussions, verbal feedback.

Technology Canvas: for notes and some assignments Textbooks: Online Remind: Class texts Text 81010 Message: @ela1220172

Classroom Regulations Daily: Bell work, homework location, objectives Absent work: folders, calendar, email, voice mail, etc. Office hours

What else? Class donations: Color copy/printer paper Disinfecting wipes Reward basket donations Check newsletter for items as they are needed Student Planners: Important to stay organized Important school information Stay connected: Keep me informed!