Mrs. Silvas 8th Grade Language Arts Class       

Classroom Phone/Voice Mail: (520) 696-5894                                                                            

GOALS

1. Enable students to master important language arts concepts and skills which follow the Common Core State Standards in preparation for high school and life beyond.
2. To increase each student’s knowledge and level of the English language by reading informative and literary texts which are complex, but grade-appropriate. They will build knowledge about the world around them through content area text read both in and out of class, writing various types of essays, delivering oral presentations, enriching transferable vocabulary, and by establishing consistency in grammar usage and mechanics.
3. Give students the opportunity to engage in evidence-based arguments. They will also express themselves through small group presentations, journaling activities, class discussions, and formal writing assessments.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

SUPPLIES

Ø  3-ring binder (1 or 1 ½” ) specifically designated for Language Arts class only

• 5 dividers with tabs to be labeled as follows:

                          1)Class Info. 2) Grammar  3) Reading  4) Writing  5)Vocab.

• 1  set of multi-colored highlighter pens
• 1  set Post-it Page Markers, Assorted Bright colors
• College-ruled paper
• No #2 pencils or mechanical pencils w/lead refills

ATTENDANCE

Absences: For an excused absence students are allowed the same number of days missed to make up the work.  However, it is the student’s responsibility to turn in any makeup work. Students should continue with ongoing assignments and if missing more than a day, email a homework request while they are absent. Most assignments can be accessed online.  Limit class absences as much as possible. My assignments are explained thoroughly during class time.

TARDY POLICY

Refer to the Administrative Tardy Policy outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

Parents will be notified after the third unexcused tardy.

HALL PASSES

Students need to come to class with all required materials and any homework that is due.  I highly discourage students from revisiting their lockers after the bell has rung. It is disruptive and therefore hall passes will be limited for students. Students are allowed two trips into the hallway/locker to get materials per quarter. After that, they are docked 3 class points each time.

GRADING POLICY

This course will be based on a 4 point system. The number of points for any assignment, project, or test is determined by the difficulty level and length. Categories are weighted as follows:  Class Assignments 35%.  Formative/Summative Assessments 65%.  Assessments include any final draft writing, tests, quizzes, and projects.  Quarterly grades will be determined based on the scale found in the Wilson Student Handbook.

Daily Assignments and quizzes will be scored as followed:

CHEATING 

See attached Cheating/Plagiarism Agreement Form. Copying homework from another student or cheating on a test is strictly prohibited. Students may not pass multiple answers through social media, apps, or texts. This is also cheating.

 If this occurs, all students involved will receive an F and if redone, authentically, will earn maximum 60% credit. Daily assignments may include help from peers; however, the peer must be present with their work in hand in order to avoid pure deliberate copying of answers. 

GRADES ONLINE

Grades are live and online through Infinite Campus on the Wilson webpage.  They may also be accessed through the District bookmark.  Please check grades once a week as they are regularly updated to reflect the most current assignments.  Email any discrepancies found right away so they may be verified and input correctly.

HOMEWORK

Students will be encouraged to use their Wilson Planner or a personal homework calendar.  Daily/weekly homework is often assigned.  I expect each assignment to be turned in on time.  I will always provide a reasonable time to complete larger writing assignments. 

LATE WORK

All weekly homework submitted after the due date will receive a maximum of a level 1 which is 60% credit.  If a student is absent on a due date, the assignment is not counted as late.  Homework due to absences must also be completed within a one-week period. Any work not turned in will reflect a zero for No ATTEMPT MADE.  If additional time is necessary beyond one week, parents must notify the teacher for special accommodations.

Classroom Rules/Student Guidelines:

• CELL PHONES must be out of sight completely or kept in assigned lockers.
• No food, drinks, or gum will be allowed in the classroom.
• No backpacks will be allowed in the classroom.
• Students will report to class on time and be in their assigned seats when the bell rings.
• Students will come prepared with a pencil, binder, paper, and work due.
• Respect will be given to classmates, teacher, substitutes, and all classroom visitors.
• Students will listen, engage, and follow instructions. Please let Mrs. Silvas teach, and their classmates learn.

Students following these rules and procedures will be more successful and productive.  If a rule is disregarded their will be consequences. The consequences are:

• • First warning- verbal or written reprimand
  • Second warning- Private discussion to clarify rules, discuss any problem that has occurred, and plan to correct behavior.
  • Third warning will ensue a parent letter by the student to parent due back with signature.
  • Fourth warning will result in Lunch detention and parent contact
  • Continual Disruptions will receive Referral to Administration
  • Last resort will be a Parent Conference to set up an individual behavior plan

I am available to help students with any problems/concerns that may arise throughout the year.

Student success is my top priority.  I cannot stress enough the importance of communication.  Please, do not hesitate to call or email me at any time. I will follow up emails with a phone call.

Classroom Procedures:

• When arriving in class, sit in your assigned seat and work on the daily bell work.  Students can be considered tardy if not in their assigned seats when the bell rings. 
• If an assignment is due on a particular date, it can be considered late if it is turned in later than the period in which you are assigned to my class.
• Passes will be limited for students to go to their locker or the office during instructional time, especially to pick up or get a homework assignment.  Emergencies will be dealt with individually. 
• Restroom privileges can be limited if abused.  When needing to use the restroom, students will sign out and use a designated pass.  Only one student will leave the class at a time. Cell phones will remain on the teacher’s desk or clearly put away before leaving the classroom.  NEVER leave the classroom when someone is speaking or presenting in front of the class unless, of course, it is an emergency situation.

Last but not least, always show respect in my classroom.  Take care of yourself and each other. C.A.R.E. Connect. Show personal awareness. Be responsible. Engage.  This will ensure a positive learning environment for everyone. I anticipate a productive and successful year.  Welcome to 8^th grade!