English 7 Everything you ever wanted to know, and then some…

We speak English, so why are we in this class? This year, we’re going to focus on the following: ▪ Reading, writing, grammar, critical thinking, and research Why? ▪ By becoming better at these things, we’ll become better students (in all subject areas), better communicators, and better able to express our ideas. These skills will help you find success this year, next year, while you’re in high school and college, and in your future careers. These skills will also help you be successful on the NYS ELA Exam, which you will take April 1-3, 2014.

What will we be studying this year? ▪ Novels: Al Capone Does My Shirts, The Giver, Where the Red Fern Grows, and Nothing But the Truth ▪ Short story, non-fiction, and poetry selections from the Prentice Hall Bronze Edition Literature Anthology (textbook) and other sources. We’ll do quite a bit of reading, but the fun doesn’t stop there… We’ll also study: ▪ Film, television programs, and music related to materials used in class.

Supplies You will need the following items for class: ▪ 1 ½” 3-ring binder ▪ 2-pocket folder (yellow) ▪ 1 One-subject college ruled spiral bound notebook (yellow) ▪ 1 composition notebook (for a journal to leave in class) ▪ Post-it notes ▪ Highlighter ▪ College-ruled loose-leaf paper ▪ Pencils/pens (black or blue only)

Always be prepared… ▪ Quizzes and tests based on grammar, vocabulary, and literature ▪ Homework assignments based on literature selections, vocabulary, grammar, writing, etc… ▪ Writing assignments and projects based on literature/film selections …oh yeah…make sure to bring your supplies and avoid this:

How will you be scored? ▪ Writing/Projects, 60% Tests, & Quizzes ▪ Homework 25% ▪ Participation15% -includes journal

How to be successful in English 7: Homework: On time + done well = full credit Not done (and/or poor quality) =after school and ½ credit. Not staying after = ZERO Projects and Essays: Full credit when complete and ON TIME 10 points off, up to 5 days More than 5 days late = ZERO Unless you’re absent: ▪ It is your responsibility to make up all missed work!! ▪ You have as many days as you were absent to make up missed assignments

My rules are simple. My expectations are high. You want Mrs. Lang to be this:Not this…

Avoid Maleficent. Obey the rules. Bathroom trips only in emergency situations. You must sign out in order to leave and please use your time between classes for this. Abuse of this privilege will result in its loss. No food or drink in class —Water is the only exception to the no drink rule. Please use respectful and appropriate language. Please be in your seat when the bell rings and begin work on the entrance task. Being late to class will result in a lunch detention after 3 strikes. No paper “fringe” on assignments that are turned in—please do them on loose leaf… not in your notebook. Oh…one more thing…

My expectations… Come to class prepared every day (bring your supplies and COMPLETED assignments) No locker trips will be allowed, so plan your time wisely. Bring a positive attitude Respect your fellow classmates and yourself Smile! ▪ I will challenge you. This class will be tough at times. ▪ Do your best. I am confident in you and your abilities. ▪ I want you to succeed—I’m here to help, so don’t be afraid to ask!