Course Description: This course includes a systematic
reinforcement and extension of language arts skills begun in elementary school. Sixth grade English is structured around the
development of communication skills, which includes listening, speaking,
reading and writing. Oral and written language is integrated through
experiences in literature and thematic units.
It
is our hope that they not only become outstanding readers and writers but will
develop a love for reading and writing. J
Supplies
needed for Communication Arts:
- Composition
Notebook
- 1” Binder
w/ divider sheets
- Pocket
folder with brads
Teaching
Methods
v
Mini-Lesson/Focus
Lesson
The teacher presents a 10-15 minute mini-lesson
that is focused on a reading or writing strategy.
v
Independent
Reading/Writing & Conferring
Students read or write independently
applying the strategy, as the teacher conferences with individual students
and/or groups of students. Conferencing with students allows the teacher to
assess the students’ ability to apply reading and writing strategies and
procedures and to offer assistance.
Literature
Circle Discussion Groups
Students
will also participate in Literature Circle Discussion Groups. Literature Circle
Discussion Groups are small groups of students gathered together to discuss a
piece of literature in depth. The
purpose is to provide a way for students to engage in critical thinking and
reflection as they read, discuss, and respond to books. Literature Circles guide students to deeper
understanding of what they read through structured, collaborative discussion
and extended written and artistic response. Students will receive detailed
information on Literature Circle Discussion Groups from their English teacher.
Literature
Circle Discussion Group Tasks Include:
¨
Connector
¨
Questioner
¨
Illustrator
¨
Highlighter
¨
Summarizer
¨
Words
Person
¨
Researcher
Expectations:
Students
are encouraged to do the following during Communication Arts Class:
- demonstrate
effective listening and speaking skills
- actively
and appropriately participate in class discussions
- utilize
strategies and techniques presented in class
- complete
assignments in a timely manner
- adhere to
the rules of a Love and Logic Classroom
Homework
Homework assignments will vary among teams.
Please check your child’s planner daily for assignments and the newsletters for
important due dates.
Grading:
Grades
will be based on the following:
Ø
Reading
Responses/Logs
Ø
Reading
Assessments (Includes Truman Book Report Forms and Projects)
Ø
Reading
Comprehension assignments/activities
Writing
Ø
Writing
Projects
Ø
Writing
Assignments/activities
Ø
Writing
Assessments
Weighting
of Grades:
70%
Quiz/Test Scores
30%
Daily/Homework Assignments
Notes:
Most items will be scored using scoring guides or provided written
requirements.
One required “Teacher Led” text
will be from the following List:
¨
Tuck
Everlasting
¨
City
of Ember
¨
Roll
of Thunder, Hear my Cry
¨
Freak
the Mighty
¨
The
Man Who Loved Clowns
¨
Touching
Spirit Bear
¨
Maniac
McGee
¨
Little
Prince
¨
Shiloh
¨
A
Wrinkle in Time
