Welcome to Mrs.McKemie’s (Ms. Mac’s) 6 TH grade ILA Class

What is 6 th grade ILA ? Integrated Language Arts Integrating the language arts means providing natural learning situations in which reading, writing, speaking, and listening can be developed together for real purposes and real audiences.

ILA Curriculum The ILA Curriculum contains:  Study of vocabulary & Greek and Latin Root Words  Reading various genres such as fiction, non- fiction, drama, & poetry  Writing narrative, persuasive, & research papers using pre-writing, revising, and editing processes  Study of grammar

Will it be fun? You will work in pairs/groups often. Students will learn NEW ways to work in groups/pairs. You will be challenged to think and present more creatively.

Will it be challenging? ILA is designed to be challenging. Students enter the classroom each day and look at the “I Can” statement for the day. Each day’s agenda is posted on the board. Homework is posted on the board and on the website. Students who need extra help can attend tutorials, use the textbook at home, and use the website for further assistance.

What if I struggle? Re-read all of the directions thoroughly. Be sure you understand the expectations and all of the steps. Ask more questions both in class and during morning tutorials. Remember, even Einstein asked questions! Look on the website at the notes, PowerPoints, etc. Tutorials are offered several times a week in the mornings: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, from 7:55 to 8:20 a.m. No appointment is necessary. Afternoon tutorials are by appointment. (I can usually stay if you just tell me you want to come.)

What We Will Work On:  Greek & Latin Stems/Vocabulary  Analyzing the author’s intentions & characters’ actions/dialogue  Essays: Narrative & Expository  Creative Writing  Producing a news story  Creating & performing a script  Character Analysis Poems & Essays  Short Answer Response  Strategies for the STAAR reading exam  Reading nonfiction, fiction, poetry, drama, & autobiographies  Research projects & presentations  Grammar & punctuation

Participation  Students should always be prepared for class, group, and pair discussion.  You’ll learn how to explain your reasoning in both your oral presentations and your writing.  Take notes often, ask interesting questions, & listen carefully.  Be prepared to be involved in the class.

6 th Grade Reading List Where the Red Fern Grows The Cay Number the Stars (If you buy your own book then you can annotate it! If not, you will be provided with a copy and you can use sticky notes to annotate!)

Parents, thank you for coming!!! Feel free to me at when you have questions or concerns. You can call me Check out the website for information about notes, homework, handouts, Power Points, etc. You student can post questions on the website. msmacenglish.com I am so excited to have your student for ILA and I look forward to having your child in my classroom for the year !