1. Sra. Weston jweston@chatham-nj.org Ext. 3879

2. Course Overview In Spanish 8 Conversational we work on communicating in Spanish through speaking, listening, reading and writing We will learn about the culture of Spanish-speaking countries and communicate with authentic materials when possible We do not use a textbook

3. Classroom Rules Students must… Come to class on time and prepared Students should begin working on the DO NOW when class starts Students should bring their binders, agendas and a writing utensil with them Respect Respect each other, the teacher and the classroom Speak Spanish to the best of their ability Be responsible for all absences and make-up work

4. Grading Policy Tests and projects (75-100 points) Quizzes (20-35 points) Classwork and labs Homework (1-10 points) Late homework will receive half credit Participation (50-75 points/ marking period) All marking period grades are based on the total number of points achieved out of the total number of points available

5. Genesis and Parent Portal I will try to keep grades updated on a weekly basis I will not enter grades until I have given the students their grades first

6. Homework policy All homework is due the day after it is assigned unless otherwise stated Homework assignments are posted each day on the board and on my class calendar on my website Students may turn in homework late for half credit All quizzes will be announced 3-5 days in advance All tests will be announce 1 week in advance

7. Extra Help Students may come for extra help before or after school to room 214. Students should check with me if they would like to come before (they need a pass) or after school. If students do not have a pass to come in early, please email me by 8 pm

8. Website My website is updated frequently with important materials. All current files (vocab lists, notes, etc.) can be found under Español 8 The calendar portion of my website is updated frequently This has information about homework, tests, projects and quizzes Students should check this regularly to make sure they are up to date http://www.chatham-nj.org//Domain/309

9. Remind 101 This is a way for students to receive emails or text messages from me. They will not see my phone number and I do not know theirs. I will send reminders before quizzes, tests and projects are due

10. In 8 th grade, we will… Review basic phrases (introductions, basic biographical information, weather, date, time, verbs) Talk about preparations for holidays and parties Discuss various holidays in the Spanish-speaking world and how they are celebrated Discuss gifts given to people Talk about daily routine Talk about foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner Discuss typical restaurant phrases and conversations Talk about Spanish and Latin American artists

11. A typical class in 8 th grade Spanish In a typical class… We start with the DO NOW We review homework and information learned the previous day We will review new information with a mini-lesson of about 10 minutes We will complete 2-3 practice activities to review the information learned today We will complete one closure activity that sums up everything

12. Tips for Success Students should do the following Always write down assignments in their agendas Speak and use Spanish to the best of their abilities Make flash cards and begin practicing new vocabulary right away Ask questions and seek extra help if necessary Be organized: keep binder just for Spanish class with the correct sections. Take risks- try to use Spanish outside the classroom if possible

13. A little humor…