Mrs. Wilcox &Mrs. Thilken Welcome you to 8 th grade Language Arts! “Let us ask the Lord that our work today makes us all more humble, meek, more patient and more trusting in God so that the church may give beautiful witnesses to the people.” ~Pope Francis

Please see the curriculum highlights in the BTSN packet. This is yours to refer to during the school year. It describes the following components of our class: Literature Grammar Writing Literacy

8 th Grade is an exciting year! Our focus this year will be on preparing your child for the rigors of high school. We ask you to partner with us by maintaining high expectations, holding your child accountable, encouraging him or her to be independent, and by helping with time management. This year will fly by! Before we know it, you will be watching your son or daughter graduate from this wonderful, nurturing school. The following slides contain some reminders, articulated expectations, and our classroom management strategies.

Back to School Night 2015 HSPT – Middle to end of January Keep distractions to a minimum between now and January. This includes overbooking, TV, computer and video game use. Check Sycamore… ing teacher if you notice struggling in the subject. Remember to also check Responsible Behavior and Work Habits.

Student Learning Expectations A Catholic Faith-Filled Life and Missionary Spirit A Life-long Love of Learning A Reverence for One’s Own Physical Being A Positive and Realistic Self-image A Willingness to Share One’s God- given Gifts

8 th Grade Expectations Respect for Self Respect for Others Respect for School Understanding Leaders and gaining Leadership Qualities

8 th Grade Success 1.Be in the classroom on time. Please AVOID ABSENCES. Making up work does NOT make up instruction. 2.Aim for ONE to TWO shadowing days and try to do shadow on light curricular days. 3.Come to class rested and prepared -achieve lifestyle balance. 4.Take the time to set up systems to help you be successful.

8 th Grade Success 5.Respect Uniform Code 6.Be polite, courteous, and respectful at all times. 7.Accept Consequences –Use Merit Card for a conversation about responsibility and respect. 8.Advocate for self 9.Monitor bedtime and media use. 10.Plan for long term assignments. Do not cram- study night before test. ** Subscribing to the teacher web pages is helpful!

How to Subscribe to Teacher Web Pages First, go to each teacher’s class page. Be sure to go to the class page, not the teacher home page. For example, P. 3 Literacy Next, check the box in the upper right corner that reads “subscribe.” Click. Another box will open prompting you to enter your preferred address. That’s it! You should receive one with all subscribed teachers’ listed homework around 6 PM each evening.

It’s Easy as 1-2-3!

Homework Policy 1 ½ - 2 hours a night – daily homework – study/preparation for quizzes & tests – projects – scholastic reading  book talks, book reports, etc. Projects – usually includes rubric & due dates Jane Schaffer writing – accomplished mostly in school

Homework (cont’d) One day late 25% hit on grade Second day late 50% hit on grade Third day….no credit 0% Office hours and library are available for doing homework at lunch. No extra credit given in any of the classes.

Tips for Success in LIFE Take time for Prayer Keep the Sabbath holy….teach your child this lifelong habit.

Mrs. Wilcox & Mrs. Thilken Extend our thanks to all who attended Back to School night! Any questions?