7th Grade English Syllabus 

York Country Day School

2008/ 2009 

Description: English in the 7th grade encompasses four major areas: Writing, reading, vocabulary, and grammar. Writing includes using the Five-Step writing process with descriptive, narrative, expository (compare-contrast/cause-effect), persuasive, creative, literature response, and research writing. The reading curriculum includes selected short stories, novels, poetry memorization / recital, and independent reading requirements. Vocabulary words are presented in context of authentic literature excerpts and include exercise on definitions, synonyms, antonyms, and application. In addition, practice with verbal analogies will help to develop the student’s word logic / relationship skills. Grammar includes a review of mechanics, usage, grammar, sentence / paragraph development, usage, and self / peer editing skills.   

Format:  In this course, I will use a variety of teaching methods that include: lecture, discussions, small group activities, student generated projects, and reports. 

Objectives:

  1. To improve the student’s communication skills.
  2. To develop the student understands of literary terms, concepts, and themes.
  3. To foster the student’s reading comprehension skills.
  4. To advance the student’s vocabulary skills.
  5. To have students authentically apply their grammar skills.
  6. To utilize and develop the student’s drafting and writing skills.
  7. To improve the student’s ability to study effectively, process information, and think creatively.
  8. To encourage students in transferring all the above across the content areas.

Texts:

  1. Exploration in Literature; Millet, Roderiques Ed.; Scott Foresman, 1991.
  2. Junior Great Books Series 7; The Great Books Foundation; 1992.
  3. Reader’s Handbook; Houghton Mifflin, 2002.
  4. Vocabu-Lit Book G; Perfection learning Corp, 2002.

e.  Write Source Grade 7; Serbanek, Kemper and Meyer; Houghton Mifflin, 2005.

                                                                                                                             

Assessment: Students are evaluated periodically using tests, quizzes (40%), written assignments and projects (30%), homework (20%), and participation (10%). 

Classroom Expectations:

  1. Students will follow directions the first time given.
  2. Students will come to class on time and be prepared with homework, agenda, pens / pencils, books etc.
  3. Students will stay on task and give their best effort.
  4. Students will not disrupt others.
  5. Students will consciously live by our Honor Code and Core Virtues.
  6. Students will accept responsibility for their academic and social actions.

If the previous expectations are not met, these consequences will occur.

  1. Warnings
  2. Detention and / or written explanation of behavior.
  3. Middle School Head / Teacher / Student conference.
  4. Parents notified.

I encourage and welcome your support and comments throughout the year.  Helping students grow in their ability to use all aspects of language is of primary importance. 

                                                          Mr. Tomevi