English Language Arts, Reading, Writing- Mrs. McCaffrey
ELA Materials
The majority of the work in ELA will involve grammar, spelling, and writing.
Grammar and spelling work/activities will be found in the soft cover Scott
Foresman practice books. We may be reading various novels for class as well. All
books should be kept in good condition as we will be using them all year.
Students will have an ELA/vocabulary composition notebook in which to
compile a year-long list of words to enrich their vocabularies. A folder will also be
necessary to keep important handouts. Writing utensils are a must as well. All
materials need to come to class each day.
Homework
Homework will be assigned throughout the week in grammar and spelling.
Generally the students will start the work in class, but may need additional time at
home to complete it. I try not to assign work to be done over the weekend or
over vacations, but in some instances it may be necessary. I do not like to give
zeroes, so students will generally be asked to complete the work. It’s better late
than never. Also, the lowest grade I give is a fifty. Students who are legally absent
will have an equal number of days of which they were absent to complete and turn
in the missed work.
Spelling Tests
Spelling tests will be given weekly, except during unit and state testing weeks. The
entire year’s spelling lists can be found at the end of each student’s spelling
practice book.
NYS Exams
Fifth and sixth graders are given a NYS ELA exam in the spring. These tests are
composed of reading passages, listening passages, multiple choice questions, and
short and extended written responses. These tests should show student growth
from year to year and are important in determining grouping for AIS and remedial
services.
Reading Materials
Each student will have a hard cover reading book that should stay in the
classroom, unless a student is absent and must catch up with the class.
Additionally, leveled readers will be used in the classroom in an effort to instruct
each child on his or her own reading level. A notebook and folder should be
brought to reading class every day.
Writing Materials
Students will be completing narrative, informational and persuasive writing
projects this year. These will vary in complexity and length, and will be completed
in school. A notebook or loose leaf paper is needed for writing rough drafts. Most
final compositions will be typed.
Portfolios
Each student will keep a portfolio of their writing pieces, so don’t be alarmed if
you do not see many of their writing pieces coming home. These are kept until the
end of the year or may be kept for the following year to show progress. We will
try to print multiple copies of their final work to send home.
* It is important that students feel comfortable seeking my help and asking
questions. I will always do my best to ensure that each child feels successful and as
confident as possible.