Nathan Hale School
Language Arts
Grade 8
Mrs. Joyce Cerbasi
The eighth grade Language Arts program focuses on the development of communication skills as an integrated and related process. The goals of the program are to develop:
- Critical thinkers
- Competent writers
- Effective listeners
- Effective speakers
- Efficient users of information
COURSE OBJECTIVES
1. To help students speak effectively, controlling pitch and rate for purposes of emphasis.
2. Listen attentively and participate in class discussions.
3. Express ideas clearly and succinctly.
4. Decide when to use formal and informal speech.
5. Write a research paper in MLA format.
6. Write a Works Cited page in accordance with the current High School writing guide, using MLA format.
7. To improve students’ formal expository and creative writing skills.
8. To help students understand the value of writing well and to realize the importance of written communication.
Course Requirements
Each student is expected to:
1. To bring all materials required for active participation in class.
2. Listen attentively and participate in class discussions.
3. Show satisfactory progress in tests, writing assignments and presentations.
4. Keep a neat, well-organized notebook.
5. Journal writing must be completed each night that it is assigned.
6. Homework must be handed in on the assigned day. Late assignments will result in a lowering of one letter grade. There are due dates for assignments, and deadlines. After the deadline, assignments will not be accepted for credit.
Means of Assessment
1. Tests
2. Written assignments
3. Journals
4. Homework
Parents are encouraged to assist their children with L. A. homework by providing a suitable time and place for completing assignments, checking homework for neatness, and encouraging promptness and regular school attendance.
If any problems should arise, please contact me through the school office to arrange a conference.
I am available for extra help both before and after school for students who may need it. Any student requiring extra help may see me to make an appointment.
This class gives every student the opportunity to be creative and express themselves in a unique way. The ability to communicate effectively through writing is an invaluable tool that they will use forever. My goal is to help them become effective, competent writers.
Joyce Cerbasi
|