Language Arts for Nov. 3-7, 2008

Language Arts for Nov. 3-7, 2008

New Vocabulary List --Write the word, definition , part of speech, and syllabication. Use the words in a short paragraph, story, or sentences that use more than one new vocabulary word in the correct context. This work will be due Wednesday, Nov. 12! The post test is Nov. 13 ( for students who submit the work on the due date .)
Word List: guradian, economize, nourishment, thermometer, multi-millionaire, superintendent, ultraviolet, ultrasonic,ultrasound, transcontinental, gradual, forewarned. ( 12 words.) ( Students are to find at least 2 additional words per suffix or prefix and write them.)
Many students complete the work before the due date. I am going to try a new approach so that students who are ready to take the post test before Nov. 12 may do so. The work must be completed , submitted, and recorded . The test will be multiple choice, sentence completion, and application of knowledge of the definitions.

Grammar: In-class lessons: What is a Noun? Singular and Plural nouns. Students will have time in class to complete the Practice and Apply written work. Teacher will assess skill groups and/or who needs extra work . Many students need to review the work from grammar test #2. Scores on that test will be posted shortly. Scores below 75% were assigned additional work and the opportunity for a Retake test on November 14. Tests should be signed by the parent indicating awareness that the student will complete the retake.
Homework will be announced: This site will list assignments. We will cover the practice in class this week.
(Students representing GBMS in the 6th grade play are to be applauded. Thank you for representing our team!)

Writing Process- All students will be provided a template and instruction about writing short stories. A rubric will be provided. Scaffolding assistance will range from templates , story samples, and graphic organizers. Writing for this project will begin in class.
Students are listening to short stories read by the teacher. Story elements are being sited. Graphic organizers are "tiered." The student will use a graphic organizer at his/her writing level.
We will cover characterization, setting, plot, main events, and resolution.
Students will be told when they may take the project home for completion or final typing. The final typed draft will be due November 21. ( The trimester ends on Nov. 25. You will receive a report card with grade point average, one week later.)

Up and Coming:
The Writing Talent Search is an in-district competition for prose and poetry. Grades 6,7,8 are encouraged to submit final drafts in early January. Students are encourage to submit a good writing of prose or poetry in December, revise as needed, and submit the final copy to the competition.