English Language Arts is a combination of Readers’ and Writers’ Workshop, the citywide approach to teaching literacy. In addition, seventh and eighth graders will be given direct vocabulary instruction through Wordly Wise vocabulary books and lessons.

All activities assigned (both in class and at home) will count for a grade. The grades will be determined in the following way:

In Readers’ Workshop, books may be teacher-selected or student-selected. Each student is expected to complete 20 whole books during the school year, which roughly means reading one book every two weeks. Students are also expected to read EVERY DAY at home for at least 30 minutes. They will need to complete a log showing the pages and times that they read each day. Students will be writing about and discussing the literature they read. They will learn reading strategies and skills and then practice those strategies. All activities in readers’ workshop are designed to enhance the four communicative skills – reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

There are 4 basic components to writers’ workshop instruction: mini-lesson, independent writing, conferencing, and sharing. In Writers’ Workshop, we study different genres and aspects of writing. Students are able to choose topics to write about within the framework of the unit of study. Students are expected to think, act, and behave like writers, integrating lessons and ideas learned in class. Writers move through the process of brainstorming, drafting, revising, editing and publishing, and evidence of these steps will be necessary for all final writing products. We will have multiple ways for students to "publish" or share their writing throughout the year.

Students are expected to come to class prepared (with their planner, completed homework, an independent reading book, their Wordly Wise book, an ELA binder, readers’ and writers’ notebooks and a pen and pencil). During class, students are expected to remain on topic and to follow directions so that maximum learning can take place. Students who disrupt class, do not complete their work and/or do not come to class prepared, will be given lunch detention during which time they can make up the lost learning time. Parents will be contacted if a child’s disruptive behavior becomes a pattern.

Homework is due in class on the day after it is assigned, unless otherwise noted. Students who miss a homework assignment will get a zero. In case of an absence, students will get one day per day absent to make up homework.

Students are encouraged to get a Boston Public Library card and to choose a variety of books to read during their independent reading. Students can also check out books from the classroom library with permission, and are responsible for any lost or damaged books.

Home/School Communication:

Please feel free to contact me at any time with concerns or questions about your child’s work. I would be happy to set up a time to meet before or after school or talk with you on the phone.

Liz Berges

617-635-6336 x238

eberges@boston.k12.ma.us