8th Grade: After completing a unit on sentence structure and sentence variation, we will move on with a short review of paragraph and paper formation. During the week, students will be expected to take notes, practice writing well-structured paragraphs, and work on word choice. An interactive lesson on ’spicy’ word choice advertisements will be the highlight of the week. Finally, toward the end of the week, students will begin the first vocabulary unit of the year. Don’t forget that vocabulary is now incorporated into the English grade; it is not a separate grade this year!
7th Grade: Seventh graders will continue learning, taking notes, and practicing the correct format for paragraphs and papers. During the past week, students had a difficult time with this new material. It is essential for students to take excellent notes and ask questions when they need to! The only way to become a better writer is to practice writing, and that’s what we plan on doing. While we focused on the format of body paragraphs and introductory paragraphs already, this week we will work on writing precise thesis statements (part of the introductory paragraph) and the appropriate format for a conclusive paragraph. After a review of all of this material, a short quiz will be given on Thursday, September 11th (key words that should be studied from class notes: introduction, creative opening line, introductory topic sentences, thesis statements, topic sentences, supporting details, transitions sentences, restated thesis, and conclusion). Your child should review this material consistently throughout the week. We will then begin our first paper: an autobiography. Prewriting will consist of a timeline that is separated into related paragraphs. If time allows, students will begin a rough draft later in the week. Finally, toward the end of the week, students will begin the first vocabulary unit of the year. Don’t forget that vocabulary is now incorporated into the English grade; it is not a separate grade this year!
