Welcome to 8th Grade English! Mrs. Fischer

Teaching Philosophy Empower students to excel in a rigorous and interesting curriculum. Instill an appreciation for reading and English Language Arts. Encourage critical thinking skills. Create an atmosphere of mutual integrity, respect, and empathy for others. Overall Goal: To create lifelong learners and informed global citizens.

My goals as an educator: Create a learning environment where my students feel free to contribute without being judged and feel that their opinion is valued. Show my students that they are cared for and respected. Allow my students to become the best person that they can be, grades aside.

Classroom Rules Be on time and in your seat when the bell rings. Have all class materials every day. Communicate respectfully with each other. Demonstrate respect for everyone in our class. Take responsibility for your actions. Be honest! Do your own work for this course. Copying material from another student or the internet is not allowed!

Materials The following materials are to be brought to class daily: Agenda Book Pens & Pencils Highlighters 2 Pocket Folders Loose-leaf Binder with 4 Sections Binder Hole Punch Post-its A box of tissues (only one box at the beginning of the year)

Daily Procedures Take your seat and copy the homework into your agenda Begin & complete “Do Now” Go over homework and/or “Do Now” Proceed with class activities. These are varied activities that incorporate individual, pair, and group assignments. Closure and assessment. This is a comprehension check in order to ensure your understanding of the materials presented in class. (So, if you have questions – ask!) Homework and important announcements reminder.

8th Grade Curriculum Quarter/Unit 1: Culture, Belonging, & Identity Essential Question: How does conflict shape one’s identity? Text(s): Chinese Cinderella by Adeline Yen Mah, Chinese Poetry, and Informational texts Quarter/Unit 2: Expectation, Choices, & Consequences Essential Question: Does technology enhance the human condition? Text(s): Daniel Keyes‘ Flowers for Algernon, "The Power of the Powerless" by Christopher DeVinck, and Informational texts. Quarter/Unit 3: Stepping into a Different Perspective Essential Question: What allows some individuals to take a stand against injustice while others choose to participate in it? Text(s): The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd, excerpts from Richard Wright's Black Boy, and Informational texts Quarter/Unit 4: Universal Struggles Against Society Essential Question: When an individuals choices are in direct conflict with society, what are the consequences? Text(s): William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet *Grammar and Vocabulary are taught throughout each quarter

Department Grading Policy Summative Assessments: 40% Formative Assessments: 55% Classwork/Homework 15% Quizzes/Tests 25% Essays/Formal Writing 15% Cumulative Exam: 5% Please Note: This is a mandated department policy

HHH English Department Policies Missed homework will be accepted for half credit on the following day, unless we have gone over it already If a student is absent, he or she is responsible for getting the work and making it up within a reasonable amount of time – lessons do not excuse a student from completing class- work/homework assignments If a student turns in a summative assignment late, he or she will lose 10 points each day NO extra credit

How can you help? Keep me informed. If you are having any issues at home or school, please let me know. Check the portal and class Weebly frequently. Ask a lot of questions and embrace your own learning experience. Keep up the good work!!

Extra Help Hours: Tuesday Afternoons: 2:45-3:45 pm and Thursday Mornings: 7:15-7:45 am

Helpful Sites Grades: HHH Infinite Campus Student Portal Homework/Important Information: Mrs. Fischer’s district Weebly Homework Upcoming quizzes & exams Due dates Classwork documents, etc.

Thank you! It has been a pleasure getting to know your children over the past weeks. I am truly looking forward to the rest of the school year! Jess Fischer (631)