Ms. Panagakos (that’s Pan-ah-gay-cuss) or Miss P.
Language Arts Overview and Expectations 2011-2012
Welcome! I am really looking forward to a great year of learning, growing, sharing and fun, but, as we all know, no classroom can function without some rules and codes of behavior. Keep in mind that this is your class as well as mine, and you can help set the tone by being enthusiastic, positive and willing to challenge yourself by taking risks. It is important to me that everyone in this classroom feels respected, challenged, safe and able to be his or her self. Just think, if we all thought the same way, the world would be a very boring place.
Language Arts consists of reading, writing, speaking and viewing. Vocabulary and grammar will be included in these areas. Although your grade in language arts will be based on some average of work completed in each of these areas, good habits, a great attitude, motivation to learn and a focus on improvement will be the ultimate decider.
And remember, at the base of all we do is the IB Learner Profile, those characteristics that help us become life long learners and responsible, fulfilled and valued individuals. Do you remember the Learner Profile?
READING EXPECTATIONS –
• To read one to two novels per thematic unit – 15 to 20 pages 5 nights per week
• To pick novels that interest and challenge you
• To challenge your reading ability
* Book projects and evaluations will generally be due at the conclusion of the unit.
* Dates will usually be assigned at the onset of the unit.
WRITING EXPECTATIONS
• To write formal and informal pieces of various genres
To follow the writing process from rough to final draft form (when required)
• To make a sincere effort to improve your writing through revision
• To edit final drafts carefully for grammar and spelling errors
• To meet writing deadlines
* Students will receive rubrics and assessment list with specific assignment expectations and time lines
GRAMMAR
• We will use Glencoe’s Writer’s Choice as a resource to gain mastery of grade level skills
• We will have regular lessons in grammar usage and homework will be assigned regularly
• Quizzes and unit test will be given at regular intervals
GENERAL CLASSROOM RULES AND EXPECTATIONS
• Respect! Respect! Respect!
• Be positive, enthusiastic and engaged in your learning
* Come to class on time and prepared to learn
• Foul language and putdowns will result in an immediate detention
• Other infractions- one warning, then a detention
INCIDENTALS
• Bathroom request must be made at the beginning or end of class or during independent work time or breaks. (Do not interrupt class to ask to go to the bathroom unless it is an emergency)
* You must sign out whenever you leave the classroom and sign in when you return
• Reading and silent writing times must be absolutely silent.
• Bring required materials to class- that means have a pen or pencil, assignment book, highlighter, LA binder, novel, homework, and anthology (if needed)
DISCUSSION POLICY
• Raise your hand
Don’t interrupt
• Listen and respect other’s opinions (you might just change your mind about yours).
• Most importantly take risks (you might be surprised at how many people feel the same way you do)