1. What We Will Read….. ESSENTIAL
The Cay by Theodore Taylor war (wwii), racism, survival, perspective
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Live in the past, present, and future; drama
Coraline by Neil Gaiman fantasy/horror genres, exploration of different aspects of the film
The Diary of Anne Frank (end of year) war (wwii), antisemitism, survival, perspective
Wednesday Wars by Gary Schmidt school year, identity, growing up
Short stories, poetry, news articles

2. What We Will Write….. ESSENTIAL
Introductory Essay:background, scholastic career, goals writing diagnostic, allows me to know who my students are
Tunnel Vision Narrative (Perspective Unit) the ability to focus on a goal vs. having a narrow mindset
Core Assessment research based, argumentative (logos, pathos, ethos)
Free writes, poetry, letters and s

3. What these English classes are all about..... essential
Becoming a better communicator, thinker, teammate
Presentation skills
Individual expression through thought
The elements of fiction and drama

4. How Grades Will Be Earned three of the four marking periods… varies
Homework & Classwork 20%
Quizzes & Tests 40%
Projects & Alternate Assessments 40%

5. The other marking period
Homework & Classwork 10%
Quizzes & Tests 25%
Projects & Alternate Assessments 25%
Core Assessment 40%

6. Best way to keep up with the class for the beginning of the school year:
Schoolwires site (through the Tohickon website>> Teacher websites)
Homework, PowerPoints, and assignments will be available

7. Thank you for coming to back to school night!
If you ever have any questions or concerns, please me at
Or you can reach me at
ext. 3376

8. Welcome back!!

9. They will get a few grammar tips here and there
Your versus you’re
There versus their VERSUS they’re
What it actually means when you say, in a condescending tone, “I could care less!” ….Or the word “literally”
AND MORE