English Language Arts Syllabus 2014-2015
Ms. Jonni Hovan - 7th and 8th Grades
Email: jhovan@socratesacademy.us
Overview
This course uses the Socratic Method with objective-based mastery. In the Socratic method of
education, teachers engage students by asking open-ended questions that require creative
answers. Instruction is based on the Common Core and NCDPI standards for the 2014-2015
school year.
Interactive Web Page
Please visit www.hovanela.weebly.com and immediately and do the following:
Click on “Please Sign-In” if you did not do so at open house. Complete the form.
Click on “Today’s Lesson” to obtain your online copy of this syllabus.
Click on “Remind.com” and follow the links to register. Or text the following codes to
763-400-9391 1st period= @mshova, 2nd period= @mshovan, 3rd period= @6c3d, 4th
period=@78752b, 5th period= 24aacce8
Click on “Wish List” to access the Sign-Up Genius link for this classroom.
Summer Reading On September 5, 2014 discussions will begin and assignments are due!
Grade 7 A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park
Grade 8 The Outsiders by SE Hinton
http://www.socratesacademy.us/images/pdf_files/Academics/Rising_Seventh_and_Eighth_Gra
de_Reading.pdf
Fall 2014 Reading
Grade 7 Tangerine by Edward Bloor
http://www.amazon.com/Tangerine-Edward-Bloorebook/dp/B003KGAZUQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1408909182&sr=11&keywords=tangerine
Grade 8 The Weirdo by Theodore Taylor
http://www.amazon.com/Weirdo-Theodore-Taylorebook/dp/B00860YYH6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1408909360&sr=11&keywords=the+weirdo+theodore+taylor
Personal Reading
Scholars are to carry a personal reading selection with them to class each day.
Each scholar is required to read and report ONE approved novel each quarter.
Texts:
Wordly Wise Vocabulary Workbook
Common Core Coach/Crosswalks
Daily Language Review (7th)
Objectives/Goals:
 Develop open-ended questions about texts and use textual evidence to support
opinions and answers.
 Use various strategies to improve reading skills (inference, sequencing,
comprehension and application)
 Interpret various types of texts
 Write for different audiences and purposes to improve writing skills (organization,
spelling, and voice)
 Use speaking skills to improve communication in both small and large group settings
 Use listening skills to comprehend and analyze information
 Work on improving critical thinking skills, study skills and organizational skills
Grade Distribution:
Tests/Projects
Quizes
Classwork
Homework
Grading Scale:
A
100-93
B
92-85
C
84-77
D
76-70
F
69 –below
40%
30%
15%
15%
Class Rules:
Be Respectful
Be on Time
Be Prepared
Be Responsible
Be Positive
Absences:
If scholars are absent from school, it is their responsibility to find out what they missed on the
day/days there gone. Scholars will be given exponential days to make up work missed during
their absence.
Homework/Classwork Policy:
All homework is to be turned in by the due date specified in class. If an assignment/classwork is
turned in one day late, seven points will be deducted from the assignment. If an
assignment/classwork is two days late, they will only receive half credit and if an assignment is
three days late they will receive no credit.
Classroom Expectations for ALL SCHOLARS:
Scholars are expected to be in their assigned seats before the tardy bell rings. (Being on Time)
Scholars are expected to stay in their assigned seats, unless otherwise directed, throughout the
class period. (Being Positive)
Scholars are expected to use proper forms of communication. (Being Respectful)
Scholars are expected to have all books and materials in class each and every day. (Being
Prepared)
Scholars are expected to participate in individual/group activities. (Being Responsible)
Students are expected to do their personal best! (Being Responsible)