9-12 English

A progressive and just world depends upon highly literate and socially active citizens; therefore, we must read, write and most importantly, think everyday. Our work will consist of the following: Response Notebook Entries (5 / 2 weeks) Skills Notebook Exercises Reading Log Responses to Independent Novels (5 / 2 weeks) Paragraph Responses to Classroom Readings (1 / 2 weeks) Composition Drafts (1 / 2 weeks) Reading 1 Novel from the 9/10 or 11/12 Independent Novel List first semester and 2 Novels from the list second semester, along with completing Book Reviews and Presentations (1 first semester, 2 second semester) We will use novels, short fiction, drama, poetry, music, political cartoons, newspaper and magazine articles and essays as subjects for our responses and models for our compositions. Other Assignments will include Speeches, Listening to Songs, Poems and Lecture, along with occasional singing and dancing. You must complete one Reading Log Entry and one Daily Response Notebook Entry for each class missed. That entry must consist of a one-page tale relating to your absence. You may detail something you witnessed or experienced while out in the world at large. Use your trip as your text for response. “And Then” essays will NOT be accepted. You are also responsible for classroom readings and responses and all other assignments completed in class during your absence. All assignments are due upon your return. If you do miss class, you will miss information, discussion of unique ideas and experiences that cannot be replicated or “made-up”. That is the price for missing class-- so, take advantage of the learning possibilities when you are away and don’t assume that you are completely “caught-up” when you return. Refer to the monthly Assignment Table for specific exercises. All assignments must be turned-in to the basket on Mr. F’s desk. Unless you speak to Mr. F prior to the due date, late work will receive half credit. *All drafts and paragraphs may be revised for improved skills, personal satisfaction and a higher grade.

Classroom performance of Romeo and Juliet

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OUTDOOR EDUCATION

This elective for middle school students introduces Team Building games and activities while developing outdoor recreation and survival skills. We will begin with an introduction to orienteering. Students will learn step counting and compass skills in order to complete a variety of outdoor challenges. Following that unit we will develop initiative problems, adventure games and trust activities. Goals of this course are to develop individual confidence and promote responsibility as an active member of a community.

Standards: Skills for a Health Life C. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; D. 1, 2,

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Middle Schoolers solving the orienteering challenge as a Team.

Just give us hoola-hoops, pvc pipe, ping-pong balls and a beach and we'll figure out what to do.

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Pre-Algebra and Algebra I

Students in Pre-Algebra and Algebra I will study and work sequentially through the math book appropriate to their levels of competency. In addition to the class lessons, each student will be expected to complete exercises that focus on that individual’s specific areas of need.

The class and grading will consist of the following:

Homework: Daily assignment given from textbook or worksheets. HW must be turned in to the basket as the student enters class. It will be checked and then corrected following the daily lesson. The student is expected to correct and show all work on missed problems. 30%

Notebook: Students are expected to take notes during each lesson and participate when appropriate. Notes and corrected homework will be kept in the notebooks as reviews and study guides for tests and quizzes. 10%

Problem of the Week: A challenge “Problem of the Week” will be assigned each Monday and must be completed by Friday. This problem will complement the textbook assignments and help to add problem solving exercises. 10%

Tests and Quizzes: One test will be given per chapter. Students may retake a chapter test once, after completing extra review assignments. 50%

I encourage students to stay after school and to take advantage of the study time at lunch

to complete homework assignments and review with my help.