Cirriculum+Overview

=MS. RUKEN - 7TH GRADE ENGLISH CURRICULUM OVERVIEW =

====As you already know, Language Arts and Literature are blocked, and as a result I have the privilege of spending two class periods with you. This provides us with a wonderful opportunity to enhance the obvious connections between reading and writing. ==== ==== It is essential to know that our classroom is one in which diversity is celebrated and mutual respect is highly valued. You have already proven yourselves to be “class act” individuals, and you know I expect nothing less. Following is a brief overview of the components that make up our curriculum. ====

Reading Strategies and Literary Elements
====Throughout the year we will be devoting our time to developing reading strategies and analytical skills. We’ll study and discuss literary elements such as story structure, characterization, irony, point of view, genre, symbolism, etc. We begin with basic comprehension and move forward toward a far deeper understanding of purpose, theme, intent, and audience. The goal is to think and write critically about literature. ====

Reading Workshop
==== Reading Workshop is a program in which students are expected to read self-selected fiction novels independent of those we read together as a class. Students will read these novels in class on Mondays and Fridays, as well as each night outside of class throughout the week (and weekend). Students are expected to read a minimum of twenty minutes or more per night. The minimum reading requirement is two books per quarter, but I expect that if you are choosing books well and keeping up with the reading, you will far surpass that minimum with pleasure. A reading journal provides a place for you to respond to what you are reading through periodic entries as well as end-of-the-book entries. One book project will be due at the end of each quarter and it is to be completed outside of class. I believe Reading Workshop is a wonderful program that encourages a love of reading and promotes a sense of independence and responsibility. You are choosing your own books and projects based on your own interests and talents. ====

Variety and Diversity
====Students will be exposed to a variety of genres including novels, poetry, short stories, plays, biographies, content area reading, myths, fables, and legends. The literature we read is rich in content and reflects the multicultural world in which we live. ====

Writing
====Formal instruction is centered around the four types of writing: descriptive, narrative, expository, and persuasive. The focus is on both the process and the product. In your writing journals you will respond to topics and explore areas of personal interest while applying and practicing skills acquired throughout the year. ====

Mechanics, Usage, and Grammar
====Communicating effectively through writing is of the utmost importance. We will learn, practice, and implement proper mechanics, grammar, and usage in order to improve writing and speaking skills. ====

Vocabulary
====We are very lucky this year to be implementing an excellent vocabulary program entitled “Vocabulary for Achievement." It is a rigorous but rewarding program focusing on word meanings, parts of speech, related words, and contextual usage. Students will be given a brief introduction to each week’s lesson on Mondays and are expected to complete the lessons outside of class by Wednesday for review. Weekly quizzes will take place on Fridays. ====

Teamwork
====<span style="font-family: Georgia,serif;"> Finally, we arrive at one of the most important components of your education...teamwork! 7th grade is an exciting and challenging year, and your involvement in your own success is critical. I encourage to use your agenda (a real lifesaver!) every single day and plan out long-term assignments. Much of the work is to be done outside of class time, and reading is expected on a nightly basis. Encourage your parents to get involved, and you and I will work to keep the lines of communication open as well. Organization, proper planning, a positive attitude, and teamwork are the keys to success. Furthermore, I encourage you to review the homework policy that follows. ====