Welcome to 7th Grade English!
Teacher: Ms. Vogel
Course Description:
• This is a genre-based English course of accelerated content that focuses on reading a variety of high-quality, traditional, classic, and contemporary American literature.
• The class also includes a spelling bee, speech contest, and preparation for the MCA tests.
• The curriculum will also include an awareness of diversity and address students’ varied learning styles.
• The class also emphasizes spelling, grammar usage, and provides opportunities for students to learn how to speak clearly and effectively for a variety of purposes and audiences.
Grade 7: American Identity and My Identity
Key Questions: What does it mean to be American? What is the “American Experience”?
Unit 1: Individual identity: Memoir
Unit 2: Short Story/Folklore
Unit 3: Poetry
Unit 4: American Identity Novel/Critical Essay on theme (We will read To Kill A Mockingbird)
From the beginning of 7th grade, students will expand their view from looking inward, with memoir, to looking at and evaluating the world around them.
Materials Needed for Class
1. One spiral bound notebook. Notebooks that are not spiral fall apart very quickly. Also, do not buy three subject notebooks
2. A pocket folder for English work only
3. Pens, pencils, and markers
4. Reading material for St. Paul Reads (a novel or nonfiction book, not a magazine)
Grading Procedure:
Grades will be calculated in the computer based on a point system. Students are responsible to check for missing assignments, this includes students that are absent from school/class. Use the Student Portal!
Late assignments will be marked down. Turn in all assignments no matter how late. Some points are better then receiving a zero.
Other Information:
• Bring your supplies to class every day. We will read and write every day. Don’t forget to bring your planner, notebook and a personal reading book!
• Your Reader/Writer notebook, which will be provided, is an important part of my class. I use it to help get to know you and your writing skills. Take pride in your notebook – it will show how you progress as a writer, editor and thinker.
• Attendance is an expected and significant part of an education. Arrive to class on time and be ready to learn. You should be in your seat when the bell rings.
Parents/guardians: Communication is critical to being successful. I extend an open invitation for all parents/guardians to join us in the classroom at any time. If you can help out in the classroom, that would be great!
I offer homework help before and after school, and I’m also available to meet with students regarding other questions or concerns.
I hope to meet you at conferences and other school activities this semester. In the meantime, if you have any questions/concerns or would like to check on your child’s progress, please feel free to contact me via email at lisa.vogel@spps.org or leave a message at 651.293.8860 ext. 1006. I would appreciate hearing from you and will return your call and/or email as soon as possible.
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