1. Welcome Language Arts Mrs. Koprivnik

2. Reading & Writing We will enjoy literature from several genres this year. Our reading selections may include the following: The Wave by Todd Strasser The Call of the Wild by Jack London The Outsiders by SE Hinton The Diary of Anne Frank The Chosen by Chaim Potok Numbering All the Bones by Ann Rinaldi And other selections for literature circles We will also read short stories, plays, poetry, and non-fiction literature, as well. In addition to other interesting assessment tools, students will write reflection papers for outside reading, in lieu of reading logs, poetry, essays, and daily journal topics. Our major writing projects include a persuasive essay and time capsule. We will put a major emphasis on vocabulary study as we prepare students for PSAT and SAT tests and the rigors of high school.

3. Grading Policy Parents, please check the planner nightly to assure your child is recording assignments each day and completing homework assignments on time. Formative grades make up 40% of the 9 weeks grade. This includes daily work, homework, vocabulary and grammar lessons, and rough draft writing pieces. Summative grades make up 60% of the 9 weeks grade. This includes vocabulary and literature tests, major projects such as research projects or reflection papers, and more detailed writing pieces that have gone through the stages of the writing process.

4. Homework/Late Work Policy Students will be assigned language arts homework regularly. Assignments are posted on the board and on my website daily. Students are to write the assignments in their planners each day and are expected to complete all assignments on time. I drop the lowest formative grade at the end of each 9 weeks grading period. Opportunity to improve a failing grade on assignments: Assignments will vary. Because students have listened to the answers when we graded work in class, an alternative assignment will need to be formulated, so students are encouraged to see me during GO Time for an alternative assignment. The grade will have a maximum score of 70% Opportunity to improve a failing test grade- Attend a re-teach/tutorial session during GO TIME and an alternative assessment will be given. Frayer Model Graphic Organizers are assigned for re-teaching vocabulary prior to a re-test. Tests must be re-taken within 5 school days- either before school or during GO Time- NOT DURING CLASS TIME. Grades will have a maximum value of 70%.

5. Make-Up Work It is the STUDENT’S job to get make-up work from the website or study buddy before returning to class. It is best if your child comes in BEFORE school or during GO TIME to complete make-up tests or if a question exists about missed assignments. At the beginning of class is not an appropriate time to ask the teacher about, “What was missed?”

6. How Much Should I Help and How? Please do not help your student write essays or poetry. Please do not word process/type for them. Allow your students to experience their own successes and failures now. They will thank you later.

7. My Website Talk with your children about their grades if you have concerns. Look at their work if you are wondering why a grade is low. Check the planner each night if you see zeros in the Gradebook. Thoughtfully E-mail Me with requests for an appointment to have a phone conference or meeting. koprivnikj@ltisdschools.org We meet with parents as a team.

8. Language Arts Success Homework Help is here!! Homework Hall and Homework Help are available after school from 4-5. A late bus is available.

9. Thank you for coming. It’s going to be a great year!