Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Student Progress

Hello all...

At this present time in Literature, students should be working on a variety of tasks. We are learning to multi-task. Students are working on a group project Biography, and preparing for weekly tests on the short selections. "Debbie" is our last selection that we just finished. "Debbie" is an example of a short Narrative. We are now focussing on the Narrative Essay.

Since we haven't had a full week for about 2 weeks,it's been a challenge for a consistent launch into the study of the next essay. We just completed the Reflective Essay, so now, it's on to the Narrative. We will read a selection reflecting each type of essay, and then write one of our own. We are consistently testing on vocabulary and questions from each selection. The next two sessions and essays will about Expository and Descriptive.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

MJ Autobiography Study & Field Trip

Dear Parents, September 29, 2009

As you know, the 8th Grade Literature Class is studying in the Non-Fiction Unit , presently on the Biography/Autobiography Section of Literature. We are also working on essay writing. During the last week of October, (26th-30th), students will be presenting their group projects on the Life & Times of Michael Joseph Jackson (1954-2009).

As a close, or even opening , to the study of the unit and projects, I thought it would be a wonderful idea for the students to see the movie- “This Is It”. In order for this to happen, tickets must be purchased in advance, and we will need your help for transportation. With as many students as are in the class, a group discount is possible. Please fill in the information below if you are available to help on any of the days, indicate how many students you can carry in your car, and if you agree to allow your child to participate in the trip.

I am overwhelmed by the response of the students when they are researching and preparing for their projects! The presentations are during the last week of October and you are invited to come. The students are excited…..and so am I. Not only are the students paying tribute to a wonderful musician and humanitarian, but they are being educated in music, life, love, and history.

Note: Since this is a limited engagement, running for 2 weeks only, prices could be anywhere from $10-$15. The showing begins 10/27/09. You may also forward your responses to my email: mscottsjs@gmail.com


Yes, My child may participate__________ Name___________________________

Yes, I am available to help provide transportation for __________students.

I am available on these days: Please circle:

10/27 10/28 10/29 10/30 10/31

I prefer: Morning Noon Evening



Cool fact: Sony Entertainment paid $60 million dollars for the rights to produce and promote the showing of “This Is It”. Let’s hope it’s a hit!

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE TEENS

This presentation enforces the ways that youth can have a healthy self image about themselves, and their capabilities. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teeens helps students to remember how to care for themselves and study during this year! This will need to be studied and referred to for reinforcement, tests, and quizzes throughout the year.



This presentation details the important points of being an active, successful reader. Students will need to refer to this powerpoint throughout the year for reinforcement, tests, and quizzes. This powerpoint is pivotal to everything we do in Literature 8.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Student Portfolios

Student Portfolios


As a reminder to all 8th graders, the portfolio binder and dividers are due September 11th. Please read the guidelines for the portfolio binders below as we will be using the portfolio throughout the year.

"Throughout the year, students will do writing assignments and projects. Students are responsible for bringing their own portfolio folder.This folder must be in class with the labeled tabs, by September 11th. After some assignments are graded and redone (if I instruct student to redo), they will be placed in a crate in the classroom with their name. Students are not to take major assignments, or portfolios home unless permitted. These papers will serve as a growing record of assignments and progress. I will need them in class at all times. Both the rough draft, and final draft of assignments along with the grade, and student’s reflection are included. Students may sign them out with me to show their parents at any time during the year, as long as I am consulted first."