Preparation for High School English
Instructor:
Courtney Johnson
Description:
This is a complete class in writing and literature for eighth grade. The class is writing-intensive, so not only will we be learning about literature, we will also be building our composition skills: sentence structure, grammar and punctuation, strong paragraphs, pre-writing skills, outlining, MLA formatting, and essay writing. In addition, we will dive into literature from a variety of genres and learn about literary devices. Editing and Vocabulary exercises will also be incorporated.
Requirements:
The class will meet twice per week and homework will be assigned each class period to be turned in the following class. The student is expected to come to class prepared with assignments and reading completed. The amount of time required from week to week will vary based on the ability of the student. However, expect 3-5 hours a week on average outside of class time.
Prerequisites:
Student must be a proficient reader and have a beginning, working knowledge of essay writing.
Grades:
Students will be graded on homework, class discussions, writing assignments, vocabulary assignments, editing assignments, quizzes, and tests.
Level of Parental Involvement
Middle School:
3 hours independently per day, 2 hours working with a parent per day
Texts:
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
The Giver by Lois Lowry
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Diary of Anne Frank play version by Goodrich and Hackett 978-1607969341
MLA Made Easy: Your Concise Guide to the 9th Edition ISBN: 978-1933167602
Other reading material and study guides will be provided or readily found on the internet.
Supplies:
- 1” 3-ring binder
- 5 dividers
- notebook paper
- Pens (blue or black)
- 2 highlighters
- 2 red pens
- A Google Account for turning in writing assignments
Other Requirements:
Assist your child with budgeting time, staying organized, and meeting deadlines. Communicate any problems to me. Make sure your child has print copies of all books by the beginning of the school year, and has access to a working computer and printer (and plenty of paper/ink). Know what kind of work your child is producing and turning in.
