Language Class Overview

Class Overview
In Language class, students focus on English grammar and writing as well as using technology effectively. Students work out of the Houghton Mifflan series of textbooks as well as a large variety of grammar workbooks. Each week, students focus on a particular grammar skill and then put these skills into practice with a writing activity and journal entry. Language classes also make intensive use of the Smart Board.

Homework
On Monday nights, students should spend 15 minutes using a computer word processor to type about what they read during their 20 minutes of reading. In the beginning, students may only produce 1-2 short sentences. That is perfectly acceptable. This should not be a book report each night. The goal is for students to improve throughout the school year.

On Tuesday and Thursday nights, students will receive a grammar worksheet to complete for homework. This worksheet will be reviewed in class before it is sent home.

On Wednesday nights, students type their spelling sentences.
Typed homework may be printed and turned in or emailed directly to Mrs. Bennett

Writing Portfolio
Students are building a writing portfolio in which they will select their best work each quarter, edit and save it. Students practice essay writing after each grammar unit.

Writer's Notebook
Students are also collecting resources to make a writer's notebook which serves as an aid for spelling, vocabulary selection, and the editing process. Each week a new page is added to the notebook.

Journals
Students keep a journal in class which allows for creative personal expression. Journals are reviewed by Mrs. Bennett but not graded to allow students to write freely. Journals also are used to help students build writing stamina. Students are expected to write for a sustained period of time to help them prepare for the upper grades.

Technology
As mentioned above, students make tremendous use of the Smart Board in language class. The board is highly interactive and students often participate in group activities where team work is expected. The board adds a visual element to class and promotes enthusiasm and learning. Also, whenever possible, students are given the opportunity to type work in class. Students also receive lesson on how to use common software programs such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft PowerPoint. Students are also taught how to effectively use the internet for research purposes.

Speeches
Intermediate is the first time students take part in the Great American Woodmen Speech Contest. Each year a topic is assigned and students select a topic, research, write, edit and present a speech. This process is done entirely in the classroom and is a wonderful experience for all.

What Can Parents Do?
To help your child be successful in Language class, it is important to encourage them to practice keyboard skills as often as possible. Encourage your child to type an email or letter to a friend or relative. Also, remind them to use describing words and eliminate "dead words" from their vocabulary (they'll know what you're talking about!) Practice good grammar at home at all times. Students should work to speak correctly and apply learned skills even when they are not in school.