Independent Reading/IR---At the sixth grade level students are encouraged to read three books each trimester of school. At the seventh grade level, students are also encouraged to read three books each trimester of school. All students should make it a practice to read a minimum of twenty to thirty minutes at home to achieve this goal. The purpose of independent reading/IR is to allow the teacher an opportunity to check the independent reading comprehension of the student. Reading comprehension will be monitored at the sixth and seventh grade levels with reading conferences, and in seventh grade, a student book talk will also be required. If the student is reading a book in his/her level and one that he/she selects, it is my belief the student will develop a love of reading. The more they practice reading at their level,reading growth should take place. In time, after growth, students should select more difficult books to challenge their reading level.
Curriculum---In language arts, it is my job to build on the skills each child brings to class. Wherever he/she is at in their learning, I am passionate about helping him/her grow. Before any learning can take place a foundation of trust has to be formed. I take pride in getting to know each and everyone of my students so they know they can rely on me.
Areas of study throughout the school year includes: 6th grade
Novel Study- historical and realistic fiction
- WWII War-- Children taking on adult roles to help their warring country
- Vietnam War--Children coping on the home front during war time
- facing adversity
- chasing dreams
- Amazing Animals and the Power of Home
- Reading technical documents to debate an issue
- Themed weekly vocabulary--use of context clues, word structure, and sound to build vocabulary
- Vocabulary within literary texts
- Weekly grammar study and assessment to promote the growth of strong writing skills
- Journals
- Compare and Contrast
- Persuasive, Informative, or Explanatory
- Short Story
- Online search and review of information---finding valid sites on the internet
- Presentation--speaking in front of a group, listening for purpose
- Sharing information--power point,glogster, or other tool for sharing research with a group