Course Description

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In this class we will continue to expand and refine students' skills and knowledge in the four main areas of study for the Common Core English Language Arts Standards for grades 7 and 8. 

Homework Policy

Homework is assigned in order to provide students with the opportunity to practice and reinforce concepts and skills taught in class. Timely completion of homework is essential for student success. For this reason, completing homework late is strongly discouraged. Late work may or may not be accepted and graded for partial credit.

Assessment & Grading Policy

Student progress will be assessed through quarterly benchmark exams, as well as various tests, quizzes, writing assignments, homework, and projects. The grading scale for the class is as follows:

A 90 - 100% -- Level 3
B 80 - 89%   -- Level 2
C 70 - 79%   -- Level 1
D 60 - 69% 
F   0 - 59%

In order to be eligible for an "A," all writing assignments and projects must be turned in on the due date. Writing assignments and projects turned in after the due date (but within 1 week of due date) are eligible for no higher than a "B." Writing assignments and projects turned in more than 1 week after due date are eligible for no more than 1/2 credit. The point? Turn it in on time for the best grade possible. Didn't turn it in on time? Still turn it in because 1/2 credit is better than no credit. 

In keeping with Calistoga Joint Unified School District Board policy, quarter and semester grades will be calculated as follows:
First Quarter Grade
  • Assignments: 90%
  • Benchmark: 10%
Second Quarter Grade
  • Assignments: 100%
  • Benchmark: N/A
First Semester Grade
  • 40% First Quarter Grade
  • 40% Second Quarter Grade
  • 20% Final Exam
Third Quarter Grade
  • Assignments: 90%
  • Benchmark: 10%
Fourth Quarter Grade
  • Assignments: 100%
  • Benchmark: N/A
Second Semester Grade
  • 40% Third Quarter Grade
  • 40% Fourth Quarter Grade
  • 20% Final Exam

Files & Templates

Daily Lesson Plans & Assignment Due Dates

Behavior Expectations

During the first week of school, students and I discussed and established expectations for behavior in the classroom. We also discussed progressive consequences to support students in meeting expectations. 
Is it Safe?
  • Keep hands and feet to yourself
  • Ask permission to leave assigned areas
  • Follow directions and safety procedures
  • Keep walkways clear
  • Walk at all times
Is it Respectful?
  • Treat others and their property with respect
  • Follow directions and classroom assignments
  • Actively listen to designated speaker
  • Use appropriate voice and words
Is it Responsible?
  • Be prepared and on time
  • Stay on task
  • Resolve attendance issues before class
  • Clean up after self
  • Use school technology for appropriate purposes

Consequences

  • First Offense -- Reminder
  • Second Offense -- Warning
  • Third Offense -- Call Home
  • Fourth Offense -- Removal from Group/Classroom
  • Fifth Offense -- Removal to Office for Discipline by Administrator
**Please be aware that more serious issues such as harassment,  bullying, or behavior that poses a serious safety issue will be referred to an administrator immediately.