1. Language Arts Mrs. Lindsay Davini LDavini@oswego308.org 630.636.2663

2. Expectations Be respectful. Be honest. Take pride in your work. Come to class prepared and willing to learn. Bring planner, novel, and writing utensil to class every day, unless otherwise directed. Complete all assigned work. Participate actively in class.

3. Literature and Reading for Information What we’ll be reading this year… Stuck in Neutral A Christmas Carol The Diary of Anne Frank (play) Numerous short stories in Literature series Lit Circle Novels Holocaust novels Non-fiction!! 7 th graders will NOT be reading Stuck in Neutral, and WILL be reading The Outsiders, and Greek Mythology

4. Writing Types Argumentative Informative/Explanatory Narrative (text based)

5. Language & Vocab Acquisition Comma, ellipsis, dash Types of sentences Verbals & their function Verb tense & mood, active v. passive, conditional & subjunctive Greek & Latin roots & affixes Context clues Nuances in word meanings Graded conversations Oral presentations Visual/multimedia presentations Active participation Speaking & Listening

6. Research Skills 2 research units to be completed this year Focus: research to answer a question (generated by student) Technology use and evaluation/credibility of resources

7. Grading Grading is split into 4 categories –Class work –Homework –Projects –Tests/Quizzes Grades will be updated at least once a week unless there are no new assignments. Late Work-Students may turn in work up to one week before the end of the quarter for a late grade deduction. –Deduction=one grade lower than what the student would have originally earned

8. Homework Policy The bulk of homework for students will be reading. Homework is meant for practice. Homework is worth 1 point (unless a larger assignment). A student earns the point if they have homework completed and turned in on time. Please utilize Home Access! I update my website daily with what we have done in class, and if there is any homework. http://www.oswego308.org/schools/thompson/academics/eighthgrade.aspx

9. Units We Will Cover Special People The Art of Suspense Overcoming Adversity Social Responsibility Oppression Social Issue Research Technology The American Dream

10. What should you see at home? Reading!!! Homework Technology use (typing papers, research, projects, checking class website, utilizing resources) Writing (planning, brainstorming, drafting, revising, developing, editing) Discussion with your child (about grades, topics we're working on in class, etc.) Frustration-at times (it's okay!!)

11. Thank you for coming in tonight! I look forward to a fun and productive year! Feel free to contact me at anytime.