You can reach me by email at [email protected]
ELA
This year in ELA we will be reading and writing more than ever! Each 6 Weeks we will focus on a different Literary Unit. It is my hope that each student leaves 7th grade with a newfound, or greater, love of reading!
How will your child be graded using the AR Program?
Scores from the STAR Reading Assessment indicate the reading level of your child. A goal for your child is then set (number of AR points), and then it is up to your child to read accordingly with the assistance of the teacher and librarian to find books on his or her reading level. We will be going to the library every Wednesday. Students may also test in the classroom during the week.
For example, if your child needs 9 AR points but only has 7 at the end of the grading period, with a 95% comprehension grade, the following calculation will be completed:
# of AR points: comprehension score: average of AR points & comprehend
7/9 = 78 95% 78 + 95 = 173
173 / 2 = 87
ELA test grade for grading period = 87 B for AR
Changes this year:
Differentiation: In order for teachers to maximize growth for each student, all students will each have his or her own goal to meet. This means that students will not all have the same number of AR points to achieve every 9 weeks. For example, if a student reads on an 11th grade level in 7th grade, that student would not be challenged if he/she were to only need 7 AR points; therefore, that student will be required to achieve more AR points. On the other hand, a 7th grade student reading on a 4th grade level would feel constantly defeated if he/she were told that 7 AR points were needed every 9 weeks. This student may be required to have less AR points and gradually increase as comprehension levels enhance.
Chapter Summaries: Because many students rush through books without paying attention to details, our school has adopted the policy of completing a variation of a summary after each chapter. In 7th grade, students must write a short summary after each chapter. These summaries must be completed and presented to Mrs. Martin or Mrs. Leblanc (librarian) before attempting any AR test.
Set Reading Time: Students will read AR books during the first 15 minutes of ELA every day. During this time, teachers will ask students to explain events in the book.
AMERICAN HISTORY
In American History this year we will focus heavily on the American Revolution and the events leading up to this event, as well as Civics and the Constitution.
My students will leave 7th grade with a greater understanding of their country's origins and also a better understanding of how to be a functioning citizen of the United States of America.
P.Martin