Writing
Last year the secondary English teachers created a rubric to follow
in grading writing papers. Although the points assigned to each
aspect of writing changes from assignment to assignment, the students
will be graded on the same aspects each time. These aspects include
Voice/Audience, Organization, Mechanics, Idea, Effective Word Choice,
and Sentence Fluency; otherwise known as the Six Traits of Writing.
We will use the acronym of MOVIES.
MOVIES - A couple of years ago a group of researchers poled
writing teacher throughout the United States and asked what
things do they look for in good writing. They noticed a pattern
in all the response. These researchers came up with the Six
Traits of Writing. I will be teaching these six traits under
the acronym of MOVIES — Mechanics, Organization, Voice,
Ideas, Effective Word Choice, and Sentence fluency. These
aspects will be graded each time the students write a paper.
Out of Class reading
Students will be tested using the Star reading assessment program
to determine what is their reading level. Based on this assessment,
students will read an AR novel outside of class. Students will be
graded on a book report each month. Along with this book report,
students will complete an Accelerated Reader test upon completion
of their novel. Both the report and AR test will be concidered a
test grade.
In Class Reading
As one of our main focuses in this class, we will be reading novels
and short stories through out the year. Students will be tested
on reading comprehension, as well as vocabulary based on the reading
selection.
Class Projects
Whenever a project is assigned for my class, I will give the students
a rubric that will be used to assess their projects. I will also
give them detailed criteria on what I expect each project to contain.
In some instances a timeline will also be given to help the students
manage their time wisely. Projects are usually considered test grades.
Homework
Students in my class will be expected to ALL assigned homework in
a timely manner. On most weeks, students will be assigned weekly
Spelling and Vocabulary homework. We will discuss the words on Monday
and the students will be tested on Fridays. This work will be concidered
homework and no class time will be given to complete the assignments.
