1. 8 th Grade Language Arts Bledsoe County Middle School

2. About your teacher… Mrs. Rachel Martin 6 th year teaching Married to Mr. Martin From Bledsoe and Cumberland One son (James) Love teaching, spending time with my family, and taking care of our many pets.

3. About the class  We will spend time reading a variety of works, writing in a variety of styles, working in groups, and learning about the English language.  Throughout the year, we will prepare for your 8 th grade language arts TCAP.  Each day, we will begin by reviewing grammar/usage/mechanics. Then, we will move on to a unit of study that deals with literature and writing.

4. Classroom policies  My only rule is to respect yourself, your classmates, and your teacher  Respecting yourself means that you act with dignity and abide by classroom & school policies.  Respecting others means that you are not insulting or offensive. Allow others to express their own opinions. Do not interrupt. Respect their possessions.  Respecting the teacher means that you do not text during class, bring your materials to class, pay attention during lecture, follow instruction, and try your hardest!

5. Grading Policies 1 st - 2 nd -3 rd nine-week periods:4 th nine-week period:  Work-12%Work- 10%  Quizzes-18%Quizzes-15%  Tests- 20%Tests-15%  Essays/Projects-25%Essays/Projects-20%  Notebook- 10%Notebook-10%  Bell-ringers- 15%Bell-ringers- 15% TCAP- 15% **Percentages are subject to change based upon teacher’s discretion.

6. Supplies/Materials  3-ring binder  Several packs of paper  Blue or red pens (for editing)  Pens or pencils (neon pens are banned)  Highlighters (for editing and note-taking)  10 tab dividers ***ASSEMBLE NOTEBOOKS WEDNESDAY!!

7. Helpful Hints for the Road Ahead  Have a positive attitude!  Try, even if you don’t feel confident or know what you are doing!  Be organized!  Always ask for help if you have tried it on your own first and still need help.  Try to avoid absences!