Enos' Excellent Exclamations

A Christmas Carol Performance Assessment

2011-12-21T15:58:00.000-06:00

Students came together this week to present their favorite scene from the drama A Christmas Carol. Students were assessed on their vocal pitch, preparation, blocking/use of space, vocal clarity, diction, how they collaborated with their peers, and audience etiquette. We were all entertained by our peers' performances! Below is a photo of Dawson, Mackenzie, Sierra, Jaydn, and Jack performing Scene 3: Spirit of Christmas Past.

A Christmas Carol Animoto Trailers

2011-12-19T12:45:00.002-06:00

Check out Jared, Kenedi, Shelbea, Sergio and Brittney's A Christmas Carol book trailers by clicking on the link below!
https://sites.google.com/site/7thgradereadoutofthebox/home/7b-book-trailers

Fever 1793 Book Trailers

2011-12-07T12:31:00.002-06:00

Check out Omar & Thane's Fever 1793 Book Trailer: https://sites.google.com/site/7thgradereadoutofthebox/home/7b-book-trailers

Fever 1793 Vocabulary Review

2011-11-11T16:37:00.002-06:00

Click on the link below to review for the vocabulary portion of your novel test with this electronic flashcard set.
http://quizlet.com/_4pwwj

Fever 1793 Bonus Question

2011-11-11T16:00:00.000-06:00

Historical-fiction novels are the best of both worlds. An author creates an imaginative story with original/made-up characters but also includes some interesting historical facts and events letting the reader learn about the world's history without much effort! The novel we just finished in class takes place in the late 18th Century in Philadelphia.

If you could go back in time and live during any era/time period/decade etc. besides present time, where and when would you want to live and why? Please give at least three reasons as to why you have chosen this time period as your favorite and explain your opinion in at least three complete sentences. If you accurately follow the directions, you will receive 5 bonus points that will be applied to your Fever 1793 novel test.

Please put your first name only at the end of your response so I can give you credit, but you can still maintain your privacy. You have until 3:30 PM on Thursday, November 17th to take advantage of this opportunity.

Oscar's Brothers in Arms Book Trailer

2011-11-11T08:49:00.000-06:00

Click on this link to watch Oscar's book trailer about the novel Brothers in Arms, a book from the Bluford High Series.
http://animoto.com/play/GMi6Y1fd9LiNTBwfDsm8dQ

Fever 1793 Pre-Read Scavenger Hunt

2011-10-08T16:54:00.001-05:00

Here are the links to help you complete your pre-read Scavenger Hunt activity based on the historical-fiction novel Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

Click on each link to fill out your Scavenger Hunt Sheet. Your answers can be turned in by the end of the week (Friday) for credit. Make sure to thoroughly read the information on each website to correctly answer the questions.

Happy reading about this intriguing event in U.S. History!

Question #1:

http://www.history.org/history/clothing/intro/index.cfm

Question #2:

http://www.who.int/topics/yellow_fever/en/

Question #3:

http://westnilevirus.nbii.gov/mosquitoes.html

Question #4:

http://www.earlyamerica.com/review/2007_winter_spring/epidemics.html

Question #5:

http://www.ushistory.org/libertybell/index.html

Question #6:

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part3/3p1590.html

Experimenting with Similes

2011-09-21T15:59:00.000-05:00

While reading the nonfiction selection "Exploring the Titanic," 7B English students created their own similes. The Titanic is compared to a floating layer cake due to the divisions of socio-economic status throughout the ship's accommodations. Here is a sample of similes our 7th graders created about their own lives:

"Love is as hard to find as what to wear in the morning." -Josey

"Life is like skipping stones; you never know when it's going to bounce back." -Corbin

"Life is like wrestling; when you get taken down you have the choice to get back up." -Dawson

"Life is like swimming; make a big splash!" -Ashton

"Life is like baseball; you'll never get a hit if you don't swing." -Sam

"Teachers are like volleyball; you normally have three chances." -Haylie

"Hot dog buns are like friends; they always stick together." -Nick

"Moms are like octopuses; they are always busy." -Alex

"People's words aren't as hurtful as their actions; don't let comments bring you down." -Enrique P.

"Life is like soccer; everyone has a goal." -Luis

"Friendship is like a flower. When you water it, it grows, but when you forget about it, it dies."
-Delaney G.

"Books are like friends. You must be attentive to get the best end reaction." -Ally

Science Day Haiku's

2011-09-07T21:12:00.004-05:00

Team 7B enjoyed perfect weather today as they experienced Science class in the outdoors for 90 minutes this morning with experts from Aksarben in Nebraska wildlife and habitat. Whether students learned to fish, found pH levels, or were educated about Nebraska's different mammal species, they took a lot from their experience. When the students came to English class in the afternoon, we took part of class time to compose a haiku (19 syllable poem) reflecting on the morning's experience. Here is a sample of the Team's work!

"Sneak Attack" by Kenedi
The worm is just sitting there
I see a sly fish
He just stole the worm! Again...

"Turkey" by Michelle
Turkeys are the best of all
especially when
you are going to eat them

"Outdoor Day" by Brayton
fury animals are really
cool because most
live by the coolest waters

"Nebraska Mammals" by Hannah
Nebraskan mammals have soft
fur; their paws are all
different shapes and sizes

"Eww" by Emily
Eww, this is really
gross! The worms keep getting my
hands a gutty mess.

"fun fishing" by Pehrson
My first fish was hooked in the
eye so I yanked it
out so it bled until it died

"A fishing pole" by Jeremy
The fishing pole is easy,
reel it in, then cast,
if the bobber goes down, REEL!

"Amazing to creepy!" by Andrea
Amazing day at a lake
A fish spoke to me
After that I was creeped out!

"Being Outdoors" by Luis
My day was an awesome day.
I touched mink fur.
I took a water sample.

"Two Fish Broke Pole Grrr" by Ally
Today I got a broke pole
Aggravating fun
I only caught two fish grrr

English 7B Course Syllabus

2011-08-08T11:06:00.002-05:00

English 7 Syllabus

Teacher: Mrs. Enos

Team Website: http://team7bwebpage.blogspot.com

Classroom Website: http://enosenglish7.blogspot.com

School E-mail: Laura.Enos@fpsmail.org

Room: SW 305

Welcome to English 7! This course offers you the opportunity to grow as a writer, reader and analyzer. Whether you feel reading great literature or improving in your writing skills is important to you or not, hopefully by the end of the year you will see how applicable the issues we cover in class are connected to the topics that you will be faced with beyond this classroom experience. Remember, we aren’t all starting at the same place—our strengths and weaknesses are as varied as our personalities. Each of us can improve this year if we work together to build a strong classroom community.

Materials: A notebook or binder with paper for brainstorming, in-class activities,
homework and background notes, a folder to store your writing assignments
(don’t throw them away until the end of each semester), and writing utensils.

Optional: a flash drive (only if you plan to work on your writing both here at
school and at home, not a requirement

Agenda:

Writing Assignments: This will entail journaling, writing reflections,
formulating discussion questions, brainstorming, outlining, and essay writing. A
variety of genres (descriptive, narrative, research-based, persuasive, drama and
poetry)will be covered with a strong emphasis on descriptive writing to prepare
you for next year’s State-Wide 8th Grade Writing Assessment.

Reading: We will examine a variety of authors and a variety of literary genres:
novels, fictional short stories (including realistic-fiction, myths, legends, folktales), poetry, non-fiction, and drama.

Novel schedule:

-1st quarter = Fiction Choice Reading Book & Presentation

-2nd quarter = Class Novel: Fever 1793 (Historical-Fiction)

-3rd quarter = Nonfiction Choice Reading Book & Presentation

-4th quarter = Class Novel: Touching Spirit Bear (Adventure)

Quizzes: Vocabulary, reading, and grammar quizzes will be given periodically with the purpose of holding you accountable for keeping up with reading assignments and checking your comprehension and understanding of the information being learned in class.

Tests/Exams: Tests will be given at the completion of each novel or unit. There
will always be an in-class review and study guide given prior to the test.

Homework Policy Philosophy:
- developed by the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (2005) found on http:// www.netc.org/focus/strategies/home.php

• Homework provides time outside of the classroom for students to practice and deepen their understanding of the content being presented in class.

o Homework is meant to be set at an appropriate level based on a student’s prior knowledge or level of exposure to specific content.

• Regardless of student ability or prior coursework, the amount of time students actively and attentively devote to homework increases their achievement.(Keith & Cool, 1992)

• Feedback will be given along with a grade for all turned in homework assignments. I make an effort for assigned homework to not be “busywork” but to possess quality/purpose in your child’s learning experience.

• Parent Involvement:

o Parents should set regular time frames, a place to focus, and clear expectations for where and when their children will work on homework.

o Encourage the following skills with your child throughout the school year: responsibility, confidence, persistence, goal-setting, and planning.

 Facilitate homework completion, not teach content

o Encouraging healthy study habits supports learning. Not only will your child see and feel the reward for his/her efforts, but they will grow in their ability to effectively handle areas of difficulty (Bempechat 2004).

Grading: assignment grades are based on total points—every assignment counts

• A = 100% - 93%

• B = 92% - 86%

• C = 85% -78%

• D = 77% -70%

• F = 69% - Below

• You will receive two days for every one day missed of class to make up any homework that was given/assigned the day of your absence.

Late Homework: If your homework is not completed at the time it is due, you may turn it in the next day at the beginning of class, completed, for a maximum score or 80% (C). If the assignment is turned in more than one day late, but completed, before the end of the unit, then the student can earn up to a 70% (D-/passing). A student can turn in completed-late work up until the end of the quarter, but if we have moved on to a new unit, the highest grade that can be earned at this point is a 50%/half credit.

Extra Credit:
• Bonus point opportunities will be given before most quizzes and tests on review days. This may come in the form of an online discussion question (in such a case, lab time would be provided for the students to completed this task if he/she so wishes) or through an in-class review activity.

• If there are events at the school/community that are English-related, then extra credit towards your final grade will be developed as both an opportunity for continued learning and a way to improve your grade in class.

• There cannot be any missing homework in the grade book in order to receive extra credit points.

Procedures/Rules:

• Tardiness: If you arrive late to class, you must have a legitimate pass from a FMS staff member.

• Etiquette: It is important that all students treat one another with kindness and respect. The Student Handbook clearly defines the four levels of misconduct and corresponding disciplinary actions. The rules of the Student Handbook will be enforced at all times in this classroom. Lunch detentions will be administered if there is continued misbehaving after the first time a minor offense was addressed. Please respect the learning environment to avoid any such consequence. If the misbehaviors continue both the counseling department and parental units will be contacted in order to best address the issue.

Leaving the Room: Restroom and water breaks should be taken care of during the passing period or after initial instruction. I will make exceptions if you have special needs or are not feeling well, but please let me know at the start of class or ask for a pass. I’m looking forward to an exciting 7th grade year!

Overall: Practice good listening skills, fully participate, and most importantly—HAVE FUN!

____________________________ _____________________________

Student Signature Parent/Guardian Signature

Bonus Online Discussion

2011-04-19T11:26:00.000-05:00

Give your opinion! Participate in this online discussion by Friday, May 6th to earn three bonus points on your upcoming Touching Spirit Bear or Petey novel test. Please make sure you complete all of the following in order to receive the bonus points!

1). You must answer one of the following questions using complete sentences (at least three sentences or more in order to clearly elaborate on your thoughts.

2). You must put your first name at the end of your discussion (leave off your last name, but put the first letter of your last initial if there's more than one classmate that also shares the same first name as you) so I know who to give credit to.

3). Make sure to read the entries posted before you so you do not post a repeat/identical entry. You need to write with originality.

4). Be specific and detailed in your response

Questions (You Choose to either answer Set #1 or Set #2):
1. What was your reaction to the movie Soul Surfer (loved it? not your type of film? how many stars would you give it? thumbs up or thumbs down?) What was the most memorable scene or the scene that had the biggest impact on you and why? What would you say is the overall theme of this story? Were you impressed with the acting abilities of the actors in the film? Why or why not?

2. Out of the three novels we read as a whole class (Go Big Or Go Home, Fever 1793, or Touching Spirit Bear) which one was your favorite and why? What was the most memorable scene from your favorite novel and why? What is a novel you would recommend to your classmates that you read outside of class? What makes this particular novel a great read?

Click here to review Touching Spirit Bear Vocabulary!

2011-04-13T12:17:00.001-05:00

Quizlet Flashcards! Ten out of the 20 words need to be learned by Monday's (April 18th) quiz. You will be tested on all 20 words on your novel test (Friday, May 6th)!

Click here to vote for your favorite Golden Sower Nominee

2011-04-08T08:53:00.000-05:00

Have you read at least four of this year's Golden Sowers? Then you can vote for your favorite by April 14th.
Here are this year's nominees:
Chains
Home of the Brave
The Boy Who Dared
Peeled
A Thousand Never Evers
The Hunger Games
Go Big or Go Home
Steel Trapp: The Challenge
Artichoke's Heart
Fakie

Soul Surfer: Click here to check out the movie's offical webpage!

2011-04-05T14:26:00.001-05:00

If you want to learn more about surfer Bethany Hamilton's true story of surviving a shark attack, read on! The film Soul Surfer that will we see during our field trip on Wednesday, April 20th is based on the published memoir with the same title. Here is a synopsis of this nonfiction piece::

From the Publisher

The amazing story of the thirteen-year-old surfer girl who lost her arm in a shark attack but never lost her faith -- and of her triumphant return to competitive surfing.

They say Bethany Hamilton has saltwater in her veins. How else could one explain the tremendous passion that drives her to surf? How else could one explain that nothing -- not even the loss of her arm in a horrific shark attack -- could come between her and the waves?

That Halloween morning in Kauai, Hawaii -- a glorious part of the world, where it's hard to deny the divine -- Bethany responded to the shark's stealth attack with the calm of a girl with God on her side. Pushing pain and panic aside, she immediately began to paddle with one arm, focusing on a single thought: "Get to the beach...." Rushed to the hospital, where her father, Tom Hamilton, was about to undergo knee surgery, Bethany found herself taking his spot in the O.R. It's the kind of coincidence that isn't mere coincidence to the Hamilton family, a clan whose motto could easily be "the family that surfs and prays together stays together." To them it was a sign someone had a greater plan than the one they'd been working on themselves -- which had been to scrape together whatever resources they could to help Bethany rise to the top of her sport. When the first thing Bethany wanted to know after surgery was "When can I surf again?" it became clear that her unfaltering spirit and determination were part of a greater story -- a tale of courage and faith that this modest and soft-spoken girl would come to share with the world.

Hamilton, Bethany. Soul Surfer. New York: Simon & Schuster. 2006.

Research Mini-Lessons (Click Here to complete the experience)

2011-03-28T08:31:00.003-05:00

Mrs. Woods, you're talented librarian, has created these great mini-lessons on important lessons in research!

Click here to view Cameron's webpage on Pegasus Bridge.

2011-03-24T14:07:00.004-05:00

Do you like books about World War II or specifically D-Day? Check out this webpage to learn more about Pegasus Bridge!

Click here to see Nick's webpage on Ghost Wars.

2011-03-24T14:06:00.002-05:00

This nonfiction book uncovers many historical government secrets. Check out Nick's webpage to learn more about this book!

Click here to check out Emily E.'s webpage on the memoir "Emily".

2011-03-23T17:07:00.002-05:00

This webpage takes a closer look at a recently published memoir (nonfiction piece covering a certain time or chapter in someone's life). Emily, the narrator and author, reflects on living with the West Nile Virus as a teenager.

Click here to get a closer look at Jon's website on the book "Mutants and Monsters".

2011-03-22T17:04:00.004-05:00

Do you want to learn more about mutants/monster sightings? Go to Jon's website on this interesting and investigative book!

Click here to check out Kia's webpage presentation!

2011-03-22T12:07:00.005-05:00

Kia read the nonfiction memoir The Glass Castle. Learn more about this book here.

Poetry Unit Review (Test on Friday, March 18th): Click Here To Review!

2011-03-12T17:56:00.003-06:00

Your poetry unit figurative language notes are a great resource to review for Friday's assessment. Here are some online flashcards to also help with studying for Friday's unit test.

NeSA Reading Test Home Preparation

2011-03-02T08:08:00.001-06:00

*The NeSA Reading Test will be Tuesday, April 26th & Wednesday, April 27th (the week after Spring Break)1). Go to the following web address: www.linkstolearning.com

2). Type in the following in the pop-up window:
User Name: usa9976
Password: preview

3). Choose “Nebraska” on the map.

4). Click on “Nebraska State Assessment”

5). Click on “Grade 7”

6). Click on “Reading”

7). You can then click on any one of the 20 practice tests’ links.

8). Try out the test and see how you do. There are around 5-7 questions per test.

9). The tests are case sensitive. You can type in your name, a parent’s email or you can type in my school email address and I can print off the score for your child after he/she is done taking the practice exam. My school email is: Laura.Enos@fpsmail.org

This preview will expire on 03/15/11

***The interactive test component uses NeSA aligned quizzes that are graded online, providing correct answers, explanations and web resources for each question.***

* If you do not have internet access at home, your child can take the tests during their Study Hall time.
*The NeSA Reading Test will be Tuesday, April 26th & Wednesday, April 27th (the week after Spring Break)

Poetry Unit Terms to Know

2011-02-16T11:46:00.004-06:00

• Recognizing Figurative Language
o The opposite of literal language is figurative language. Figurative language is language that means more than what it says on the surface.
o It usually gives us a feeling about its subject.
o Poets use figurative language almost as frequently as literal language. When you read poetry, you must be conscious of the difference. Otherwise, a poem may make no sense at all.

• Literal language is language that means exactly what is said. Most of the time, we use literal language in our daily conversations.
• What is figurative language?
o Whenever you describe something by comparing it with something else, you are using figurative language.

• Imagery
• Language that appeals to the senses. Descriptions of peopleor objects stated in terms of our senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell).

• Simile

o A figure of speech which involves a direct comparison between two unlike things, usually with the words “like” or “as”.
Examples: The muscles on his brawny arms are strong as iron bands.
People are like music, all you have to do is listen.
• Metaphor
o A figure of speech which involves an implied comparison between two relatively unlike things using a form of be. The comparison is not announced by “like” or “as”, but instead uses “is” or “are”
o Example: The road is a ribbon wrapping through the dessert.

• Alliteration
• Repeated consonant sounds occurring at the beginning of words or withinwords.
Example: She was wide-eyed and wondering while she waited for Walter to waken.

• Personification
• A figure of speech which gives the qualities of a personto an animal, an object, or an idea.
Example: “The wind yells while blowing.”
***The wind cannot yell. Only a living thing can yell.***

• Onomatopoeia
o The use of words that mimic sounds.
Example: The firecracker made a loud ka-boom!

• Hyperbole
o An exaggerated statement used to heighten effect. It is not used to mislead the reader, but to emphasize a point.
Example: She’s explained it to me on several million occasions.

• Idioms
o An idiom or idiomatic expression refers to a construction or expression in one language that cannot be matched or directly translatedword-for-word in another language.
o Example: "She has a bee in her bonnet," meaning "she is obsessed," cannot be literally translated into another language word for word.

Fall CRT Terms to Know:)

2011-01-06T10:19:00.000-06:00

Make sure your CRT Fall Study Guide is complete. You will turn your Study Guide in the day of your exam for a homework grade. Here are the "Terms to Know" for your exam on Wednesday, January 12th & Thursday, January 13th.

Simile
When you compare two different nouns (persons, places or things) with "like" or "as" to find a similarity.
Example: Hockey is like reading; you get into it and then you never
want to stop.

Ideas
A clear topic statement, focused content/examples packed with details

Voice
Writing that is active and engaging for the reader; the author’s personality comes out in the writing.

Word Choice
Choosing the right vocabulary to convey a message, idea, or feeling

Sentence Fluency
Sentences are clear, concise, and various lengths

Organization
The order makes sense, including strong transitions words and a clear beginning, middle, and ending

Conventions
Proper usage of grammar, punctuation, and spelling

Fiction
Stories that are made up by
the author or are not true.

Nonfiction
Stories that are true,
are about real things, people,
events, and places from beginning to end.

Drama
A theatrical play

Genre
The type of category a piece of writing falls under.

Theme
The main point of a story or the major idea found in a piece of literature.

Mood
A feeling a story conveys to the reader.

Composition
A short essay

Introduction
Begins an essay by setting up what the paper will be about

Body
Where the writer includes the main ideas and examples in the essay

Conclusion
Reviewing and wrapping up one’s ideas in an essay

Copyright
The date a piece of writing is published.

Author’s Purpose
The reason why an author writes a certain piece.

Entertain
The type of purpose that is meant to amuse/engage the reader.

Inform
The type of purpose that is meant to give as much important information as possible.

Persuade
The type of purpose that hopes to convince the reader to agree with the writer’s opinions.

Point-of-View
The perspective (seen through a certain set of eyes) of the piece.

First-person
Told from the perspective of a specific character (“I”, “me”, “we”, “us”)

Third-person
Told from the perspective of a nonspecific character/an outsider looking in (“They”, “Them”, a specific person’s name)

Second-person
Told from a direct perspective, straight to the reader (“you”).

Fever 1793 Bonus Question

2010-12-01T12:14:00.000-06:00

Historical-fiction novels are the best of both worlds. An author creates an imaginative story with original/made-up characters but also includes some interesting historical facts and events letting the reader learn about the world's history without much effort! The novel we just finished in class takes place in the late 18th Century in Philadelphia.
If you could go back in time and live during any era/time period/decade etc. besides present time, where and when would you want to live and why? Please give at least three reasons as to why you have chosen this time period as your favorite and explain your opinion in at least three complete sentences. If you accurately follow the directions, you will receive 5 bonus points that will be applied to your Fever 1793 novel test.
Please put your first name only at the end of your response so I can give you credit, but you can still maintain your privacy. You have until 3:30 PM on Monday, December 6th to take advantage of this opportunity.

Fever 1793 Internet Pre-Read Scavenger Hunt

2010-10-27T14:57:00.000-05:00

Here are the links to help you complete your pre-read Scavenger Hunt activity based on the historical-fiction novel Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

Click on a new tab near the top of the screen and then copy and paste the following links (one by one) into the web address window at the very top of the screen. Make sure to thoroughly read the information on each website to correctly answer the questions.

Question #1
http://www.history.org/history/clothing/intro/index.cfm

Question #2
http://www.who.int/topics/yellow_fever/en/

Question #3
http://westnilevirus.nbii.gov/mosquitoes.html

Question #4
http://www.earlyamerica.com/review/2007_winter_spring/epidemics.html

Question #5
http://www.ushistory.org/libertybell/index.html

Question #6
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part3/3p1590.html

Happy reading about this intriguing event in U.S. History!

Emily E.'s Awesome Fiction Choice Book Website (click right here to check it out)!

2010-10-20T15:40:00.003-05:00

Check out Emily's website where she highlights all the important parts of a fictional novel and reviews Perfectly Dateless by Kristin Billerbeck

Creating Similes

2010-10-01T14:26:00.003-05:00

A simile is used in "Exploring the Titanic" to show the divisions of social classes on this massive ship. Here are some of the similes 7C students created about different topics in their own lives:

"People are like music; all you have to do is listen." - Emma

"A football team is like an engine; if one part doesn't work the whole engine fails." - Matt

"Dating is like an ipod; people think they need it but some people are better off without it." - Coral

"Decisions are like a one way street; once you decide you can't turn back."-Austin W.

"Life is like a game of tag; sometimes you are it and other times you are left running." -Alexis

"Life is like the sky; it can be dark at times but you always know it will get brighter." - Emily C.

"Life is like volleyball; you don't give up until there's nothing left to fight for." - Rylie

"Life is like a race; if you run it right the prize is heaven." -Spencer B.

"Everyone is like ice cream. You can be sweet or you can be sugar-free." -Faythe

"Friends are like Skittles, all different colors but all the same inside." -Bridget

"School is like an obstacle course; it gets easier or harder as you go!" -BJ

"People are like braces; we can be bad at times but in the end it can turn out great." - Carla

"Parents are like stinky feet; you're stuck with them." -Sydney

"Life is like an elevator; it keeps going up and then it stops." - Dorisha

"People are like clocks, they have different faces." -Kris

"Friends are like balloons; if you let them go you may never get them back."- Frankie

"Life is like a day. You only have once chance to do it right." -Kialynne

"A football team is like a pack of wolves, without everyone working together you will never win." -Nate

"Life is like baseball; home is the best place to be." - Alex

"The Philadelphia Eagles are like gambling. They get something good then they lose it all." -Teddy

"My dog is like a garbage can. He will eat anything." -Lucus

"Football is like grass; you see it every day." -Lamain

English 7 Syllabus

2010-08-17T15:10:00.000-05:00

English 7 Syllabus

Teacher: Mrs. Enos
Classroom Website: http://enosenglish7.blogspot.com
School e-mail: Laura.Enos@fpsmail.org
Room #: SW 301

Welcome to English 7! This course offers you the opportunity to grow as a writer, reader and analyzer. Whether you feel reading great literature or improving in your writing skills is important to you or not, hopefully by the end of the year you will see how applicable the issues we cover in class are connected to the topics that you will be faced with beyond this classroom experience. Remember, we aren’t all starting at the same place—our strengths and weaknesses are as varied as our personalities. Each of us can improve this year if we work together to build a strong classroom community.

Materials: A notebook or binder with paper for brainstorming, in-class activities,
homework and background notes, a folder to store your writing assignments
(don’t throw them away), and writing utensils.

Agenda:
Writing Assignments: This will entail journaling, writing reflections,
formulating discussion questions, brainstorming, outlining, and essay writing. A
variety of genres (descriptive, narrative, research-based, persuasive, and poetry)
will be covered with a strong emphasis on descriptive writing to prepare you for
next year’s State-Wide 8th Grade Writing Assessment.

Reading: We will examine a variety of authors and a variety of literary genres:
novels, fictional short stories (including realistic-fiction, myths, legends, folktales), poetry, non-fiction, and drama.
Novel schedule:
-1st quarter = Fiction Choice Reading Book & Project
-2nd quarter = Class Novel: Fever 1793 (Historical-Fiction)
-3rd quarter = Nonfiction Choice Reading Book & Project
-4th quarter = Class Novel: Touching Spirit Bear (Adventure)

Quizzes: Vocabulary, reading, and grammar quizzes will be given periodically with the purpose of holding you accountable for keeping up with reading assignments and checking your comprehension and understanding of the information being learned in class.

Texts/Exams: Tests will be given at the completion of each novel or unit. There
will always be an in-class review and study guide given prior to the test.

Homework Policy
Philosophy:
- developed by the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (2005) found on http:// www.netc.org/focus/strategies/home.php

• Homework provides time outside of the classroom for students to practice and deepen their understanding of the content being presented in class.
o Homework is meant to be set at an appropriate level based on a student’s prior knowledge or level of exposure to specific content.
• Regardless of student ability or prior coursework, the amount of time students actively and attentively devote to homework increases their achievement.(Keith & Cool, 1992)
• Feedback will be given along with a grade for all turned in homework assignments. I make an effort for assigned homework to not be “busywork” but to possess quality/purpose in your child’s learning experience.
• Parent Involvement:
o Parents should set regular time frames, a place to focus, and clear expectations for where and when their children will work on homework.
o Encourage the following skills with your child throughout the school year: responsibility, confidence, persistence, goal-setting, and planning.
 Facilitate homework completion, not teach content
o Encouraging healthy study habits supports learning. Not only will your child see and feel the reward for his/her efforts, but they will grow in their ability to effectively handle areas of difficulty (Bempechat 2004).

Grading: assignment grades are based on total points—every assignment counts
• A = 100% - 93%
• B = 92% - 86%
• C = 85% -78%
• D = 77% -70%
• F = 69% - Below
• You will receive two days for every one day missed of class to make up any homework that was given/assigned the day of your absence.

Late Homework: If your homework is not completed at the time it is due, you may turn it in the next day at the beginning of class, completed, for a maximum score or 80% (C). If the assignment is turned in more than one day late, but completed, before the end of the unit, then the student can earn up to a 70% (D-/passing). A student can turn in completed-late work up until the end of the quarter, but if we have moved on to a new unit, the highest grade that can be earned at this point is a 50%/half credit.

Extra Credit:

• Bonus point opportunities will be given before most quizzes and tests on review days. This may come in the form of an online discussion question (in such a case, lab time would be provided for the students to completed this task if he/she so wishes) or through an in-class review activity.

• If there are events at the school/community that are English-related, then extra credit towards your final grade will be developed as both an opportunity for continued learning and a way to improve your grade in class.

• There cannot be any missing homework in the grade book in order to receive extra credit points.

Procedures/Rules:
• Tardiness: If you arrive late to class, you must have a legitimate pass from a FMS staff member.

• Etiquette: It is important that all students treat one another with kindness and respect. The Student Handbook clearly defines the four levels of misconduct and corresponding disciplinary actions. The rules of the Student Handbook will be enforced at all times in this classroom. Lunch detentions will be administered if there is continued misbehaving after the first time a minor offense was addressed. Please respect the learning environment to avoid any such consequence. If the misbehaviors continue both the counseling department and parental units will be contacted in order to best address the issue.

• Leaving the Room: Restroom and water breaks should be taken care of during the five-minute passing period. I will make exceptions if you have special needs or are not feeling well, but please let me know at the start of class or ask for a pass.

Overall: Practice good listening skills, fully participate, and most importantly—HAVE FUN!

____________________________ _____________________________
Student Signature Parent/Guardian Signature

I’m looking forward to an exciting 7th grade year!

Touching Spirit Bear

2010-05-04T17:04:00.004-05:00

Please answer any one of the following three prompts using complete and detailed sentences. Your response should be a solid paragraph in order to receive the bonus points on your future novel test (3 points).

1. If there was a portion of the novel Touching Spirit Bear that you would like to rewrite, what would it be and why? Why do you think that scene needs to be improved and how do you think your idea would make the story better?

2. Rumor has it that the rights have been purchased to eventually turn Touching Spirit Bear into a movie. Who would you cast for the characters of: Cole, Garvey, Cole's parents, and Peter? Justify your cast for this movie (describe what parts of the character would match with the chosen actors).

3. Out of the three novels we read this year as a class (Fever 1793, Touching Spirit Bear, and Wednesday Wars) what was your favorite read and why?

Homework Policy

2010-04-07T16:33:00.000-05:00

Mrs. Enos’ Homework Policy
English 7
Philosophy:
- developed by the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (2005) found on http:// www.netc.org/focus/strategies/home.php

• Homework provides time outside of the classroom for students to practice and deepen their understanding of the content being presented in class.
o Homework is meant to be set at an appropriate level based on a student’s prior knowledge or level of exposure to specific content.
• Regardless of student ability or prior coursework, the amount of time students actively and attentively devote to homework increases their achievement.(Keith & Cool, 1992)
• Feedback will be given along with a grade for all turned in homework assignments.
• Parent Involvement:
o Parents should set regular time frames, a place to focus, and clear expectations for where and when their children will work on homework.
o Encourage the following skills with your child throughout the school year: responsibility, confidence, persistence, goal-setting, and planning.
 Facilitate homework completion, not teach content
o Encouraging healthy study habits supports learning. Not only will your child see and feel the reward for his/her efforts, but they will grow in their ability to effectively handle areas of difficulty (Bempechat 2004).

Grading: assignment grades are based on total points—every assignment counts
• A = 100% - 93%
• B = 92% - 86%
• C = 85% -78%
• D = 77% -70%
• F = 69% - Below
• You will receive two days for every one day missed of class to make up any homework that was given/assigned the day of your absence.

Procedures/Rules:

• Late Homework: If you homework is not completed at the time it is due, you may turn it in the next day at the beginning of class, completed, for a maximum score or 80% (C). It may still be turned in for a passing grade if completed two days after the original deadline for a 70% (D-). If completed work is turned in three days after the deadline to the end of the quarter, the student can earn a maximum of 50% on the assignment.

Extra Credit:

• Bonus point opportunities will be given before most quizzes and tests on review days.

• If there are events at the school/community that are English-related, then extra credit towards your final grade will be developed as both an opportunity for continued learning and a way to improve your grade in class. There cannot be any missing homework in the grade book in order to receive extra credit points.

Graphic Organizer

2010-03-16T23:18:00.003-05:00

While reading "Amigo Brothers" the two main characters, Felix & Antonio were compared and contrasted through the following chart during the climatic point/fight in the short story.

ROUND FELIX ANTONIO
_________________________________________________________________________
One
(begins on line 216)

_________________________________________________________________________
Two
(begins on line 250)

_________________________________________________________________________
Three
(begins on line 298)

________________________________________________________________________

Wednesday Wars Connection

2010-03-10T16:46:00.004-06:00

In the novel Wednesday Wars, that I read to you to begin class, the protagonist/main character, Holling gave Mrs. Baker, his English teacher, tips/advice on what to do and not do in the classroom ("don't roll your eyes, don't cross your arms, and use code words when a student does something really well/praise them"). What is an important piece of advice you'd give to teachers that you feel would improve your education as a student(seriously) and why.

For example, please avoid suggestions such as: "Give me an "A" even if I don't turn in my homework." What do you feel is missing right now that you would like to see more of, or teaching practices that you think need to be changed/eliminated altogether. Make sure to support your opinion (please shoot for a 2-3 sentence response at least in order to elaborate on your ideas).

What book have you read this year that you think every 7th grader should read?

2010-02-03T20:31:00.000-06:00

What book have you read this year that you think every 7th grader should read?

I'm currently reading Pendragon by D.J. MacHale (the first book in the Pendragon series --there's ten books total), because one of my students suggested it to me. She's even letting me read her own personal copy! Even though the fantasy genre has never been my favorite, this book is great! The narrator (teen boy perspective) speaks and thinks in a very blunt/matter-of-fact manner that is extremely down-to-earth, refreshing, and hilarious to read. What should I read next?