Welcome to English/Language Arts 7!
Mrs. Kelly Willis, Teacher
Course Description
My objective is to teach and encourage each student to become skilled readers and writers ready for the expectations of the 21st century. I also want them to develop a love for the adventures we can take in life simply by reading a book.
The grade 7 curriculum is designed to address Common Core State Standards for English/Language Arts (ELA) outcomes. The curriculum focus is on building students’ literacy skills as they develop knowledge about the world. Reading, vocabulary building, writing, speaking, and listening skills are addressed throughout the curriculum. We still utilize the Accelerated Reader (AR) program as many of the students are familiar with from elementary school. Students choose AR books appropriate for their reading level and take corresponding online assessments. We will also be using the computer based program, Learning Farm, as a means of PSSA test preparation. Additionally, we will use other online sources to make our learning fun and meaningful such as Flocabulary and Kahoot It!
Assessment
Students can expect to experience a variety of formal and informal assessment techniques such as: Text Dependent Analysis (TDA) written responses, open-ended response questions, multiple-choice questions, various skill activities, projects, oral and written presentations, computer assigned instruction and assessment. Some of these assessments are at times completed with a group of students. “Open-book” tests are also commonly used in order to mirror the format of the PSSA test.
Homework
Homework will consist of preparing for formal and informal assessments and reading Accelerated Reader (AR) books. Many assignments will be completed during class time in order to receive teacher support.
Parent Resources
You can check your child’s progress at www.carmarea.org.
Feel free to contact me with questions or concerns at [email protected] or 724-966-5045, ext. 2309.
If applicable, you can contact Mrs. Anderson at [email protected] or 724-966-5045, ext. 2362.