6th+Grade+Syllabus+-+English+Language+Arts

​ **Availability by Appointment only: after** **3:00** || ** Room: 162 ** ||  || **Course Description** This course is designed for sixth grade and will integrate the English Language Arts curriculum, including reading, writing, speaking, listening and viewing skills. Students will be engaging in the reading and writing processes in a variety of genres, both informational and narrative. Strategies in grammar usage and mechanics will be used in the writing process. The course textbooks will cover a variety of topics, including literary analysis, vocabulary, grammar, writing, extension activities, assessment, and technology enhancement**s.**
 * Course:** **__ English Language Arts/Reading - 6th Grade __**
 * Year: 2009-2010 **
 * Instructor: Ms. Furlow **
 * Contact Information: **rfurlow@atafordpas.org (best method)
 * (313) 625-4700 (Messages only) **
 * (313) 625-4700 (Messages only) **

Students will: Be able to interpret their reading in connection to their daily lives. Be able to acquire and use vocabulary knowledge appropriately to grade level. Be able to demonstrate development in comprehension skills. Be able to express themselves through writing in a variety of writing styles. Be able to demonstrate the ability to write grammatically correct sentences, paragraphs, and compositions.
 * Course Objectives **

__Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes__ (Prentice Hall – Copper Level) __Skills Development Workbook__ (Prentice Hall – Copper Level) __Writing and Grammar: Communication in Action__ (Prentice Hall) Novels: To be determined
 * Textbook(s) **

Textbooks and supplemental works are the property of ATA. Books are to be used in the classroom only. If a book is signed out with the instructor, it is to be returned to the classroom the following day. If a book is signed out to a student, it must be returned to the instructor in good condition, or a fee may be charged.
 * Textbook Policy **

Students need to have these necessary course materials and resources: l 2 composition books l Loose leaf paper l 1 package index cards l 1 highlighter l Pencils (#2) l 5 folders l Pencil pouch l Book for independent reading (daily) l Colored pencils or markers **__Dictionary for home use is required__**
 * Materials **

For classroom use: l Box of tissue (2) l Hand sanitizer Requirements ** Students will be required to do the following work: l Be prepared for class daily **__(have all necessary materials)__** and turn in assignments on time. l Reading accompanied by comprehension/writing exercises. l Carry independent reading book daily. l Vocabulary activities. l Journal entries: Reading reflections and response to writing prompts, etc. l Writing for a variety of purposes and audiences. l Participate in classroom activities and discussions. l Daily Oral Language and other warm-up exercises. l Homework assignments (at the teacher’s discretion).

Grading Scale ** **Classroom Rules, Procedures**, **Policies** Failure to follow these rules and procedures will result in disciplinary action. Students are expected to follow the REACH Values in all daily interactions and comply with the Student Handbook at all times. PLEASE NOTE: (Taken from the Student Handbook)* ** l Food, including, but not limited to candy and gum and beverages are not permitted in the classroom. l Electronic devices including, but not limited to radios, Walkmans, iPods, CD/DVD players, laser pointers, and cell phones are not permitted in the school. If they are seen and/or heard, they will be confiscated and turned over to the Dean of Students. // Note: Parents and students have both a right and a responsibility to know the contents of the ATA Handbook. // l Conference with Student l Parental contact l Discipline Referral to Dean of Students l Parent/Teacher/Dean Meeting
 * Grading
 * A = 93% -100% || C = 73% -76% ||
 * A- = 90% -92% || C- = 70% -72% ||
 * B+ = 87% -89% || D+ = 67% -69% ||
 * B = 83% -86% || D = 63% -66% ||
 * B- = 80% -82% || D- = 60% -62% ||
 * C+ = 77% -79% || F = 0% - 59% ||
 * Rules: **
 * Consequences: **
 * __ *Any physical aggression will result in immediate referral to the Dean of Students. __**

Absent Work/Late Work: Students will be allowed one make-up day per EXCUSED absence.
 * Procedures: **
 * 1) Students are expected to enter the classroom quietly and begin writing in their planners and doing warm-up activities. Planners will be randomly checked for completeness and organization.
 * 2) Students MUST raise their hands to be called upon. Shouting out answers or talking out of turn will not be tolerated.
 * 3) All class work must be completed independently unless otherwise stated by the instructor – copying is not allowed, and any students involved will receive a zero for that assignment and possibly face further disciplinary action.
 * 4) Students MUST remain in their seats unless otherwise instructed.
 * 5) A designated restroom break is scheduled; bathroom passes will be rarely given unless it is for health reasons with a required letter.
 * Attendance and Course Policies:**

Late work will be subject to reduced credit – l day – 25% 2 days – 50% 3 days plus – 0% ** Cheating is not tolerated at ATA. Students who choose to cheat may expect a variety of consequences, including, but not limited to, loss of grade, suspension, or loss of privilege. Consequences will be at the discretion of the instructor involved and will be discussed with the student, parent(s), and administrators.
 * STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CONTACTING THE INSTRUCTOR TO RECEIVE INSTRUCTIONS AND ANY MISSING ASSIGNMENTS.
 * Academic Integrity**

All parties agree that academic success is the product of a cooperative effort. To ensure that will benefit from this effort, each party has the following responsibilities: (Student) As a student, I will: 3. Obey all classroom rules and procedures. 4. Come prepared to school with assignments and materials. ** **5. Read syllabus thoroughly.**
 * Course Responsibility Contract **
 * 1. Practice the //Amistad// values:** **REACH: R**espect, **E**nthusiasm, **A**chievement, **C**itizenship, **H**ard Work
 * 2. Put my best effort into my school work.

As a parent, I will: 2. Support classroom discipline policies and student handbook policies. 3. Contact teacher as needed and attend parent-teacher conferences. 4. Ensure my child is on time and attends school regularly.**
 * 1. Monitor my child's school work and extracurricular activities.
 * 5. Read syllabus thoroughly.**

As an instructor, I will: 2. Enforce school and classroom rules consistently. 3. Provide students with clear and concise expectations. 4. Work to make learning an enjoyable experience. 5. Provide a syllabus to each student. ** Please sign and return immediately. Date: _ || ** Parent Signature ** Date: _ || ** Teacher Signature **
 * 1. Provide a safe, comfortable environment for all students.
 * ** Student Signature **

Date: ||