• Course Description & Syllabus 2023-24

    Seventh Grade Advanced English Language Arts 

     

    Course Instructor: Mrs. Laura Wilson 

    Room: 204

    Phone: (517) 689-1364

    E-mail: laura.wilson@hillsdaleschools.org

     

    Course Description:

    Advanced English is an accelerated language arts course for seventh graders.  Placement is based on sixth grade performance in English.  This course combines the curriculum of seventh and eighth grade Reading and Writing Workshops with a more in-depth study of the material.  Successful completion of this course usually results in placement in Advanced Placement English in eighth grade.  Reading Workshop includes reading short stories/questions, vocabulary/spelling instruction, independent reading, class novels and discussions, written responses in a reading journal, lessons in comprehension, and literature circle discussions.  Through the study of literature, literary devices and techniques are also taught.  Writing Workshop incorporates journal writing, the writing process, mini-lessons in the focus areas of voice, style, correctness, adding sensory details, grammar skills, and other necessary revision skills.  The following writing genres are covered in this course: literary essay, memoir, persuasive/research five paragraph essay, poetry, and other forms of expository writing.  

     

    Required Daily Materials for This Course:

    • Pencils

    • Folder for English notes and handouts

    • 1 70 count one subject notebook 

    • Independent reading book 

    • Laptop (School provided)

    • Positive attitude

    • Work ethic

    Required (Supplied) Texts for Advanced English 7: *

    • Prentice Hall Writing Coach textbook for Grade 7

    • “The Diary of Anne Frank: A Play” by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett 

    • Class novel The Giver by Lois Lowry

    • Class novel The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

    • Independent reading book

    • Variety of short stories, poems, children's literature, and non-fiction articles

    *This list is tentative and subject to changes.



    7-8 District English Language Arts Grading Scale:

    Homework: 10%

    Coursework: 10%

    Essay/Unit Assessments: 40%

    Quizzes: 20%

    Projects/Presentations: 20%

    Course Requirements:

    Students will…

    • Read independently at home (20 minutes per night is required and will be logged. 

    • Complete “Bellwork”daily. (Grammar, spelling, or writing exercise)

    • Study for and take weekly spelling tests.

    • Engage in class novel discussions/Book Club discussion groups.

    • Complete prompt writing and reading responses weekly.

    • Take quizzes, tests, and other forms of assessments throughout the course.

    • Complete book projects and/or book talks quarterly for independent reading books and class novels.

    • Deliver book talks and other presentations in front of peers.

     

    Classroom Rules & Expectations:

    1.) Be respectful of teachers, peers, and yourself.

    2.) Follow directions the first time they are given.

    3.) Be in your seat when the bell rings and begin working on the Bellwork. (daily assignment on board)

    4.) Raise your hand and wait to be called on during class discussions.

    5.) At all times, allow your teachers to teach and the other students to learn.

    6.) Come prepared to class--Bring laptop, notebook, folder, and PENCILS to class daily.

    Mrs. Wilson’s English Late Work Policy:

    • For all homework assignments- Late homework WILL be accepted at 50% its worth UNTIL the day of the final assessment or final paper.

    • For all projects and/or final drafts of papers- Late work WILL be accepted with 10% counted off for every day it is late.