Monday, August 30, 2010

Language Arts/LaBarbera/Aug. 30-Sept. 3, 2010

Language Arts/ LaBarbera/August 30-September 3,2010.

Homework for Wednesday, September 1, 2010:
-Complete your two reading responses due this Friday, September 3.
-Complete the reading survey distributed in today's class by Friday, September 3.
-Look up the word " truth" in the dictionary.
-Begin thinking about the ( pre-writing) content of an upcoming autobiographical narrative composition we will begin in Language Arts class. What are your interests and hobbies? What are your goals and dreams? Who are the friends or family that influence you ? Stay tuned.
1. Students are bringing home a letter from Ms. LaBarbera with email address, voice-mail number, and blog address. It is in the Language Arts slot of the accordion folder.
2. Homework for August 30:
a) Read and study the Rules for Spelling Sheet. Notice the exceptions to the rule.
b.) Continue reading your novel at home for 30 minutes a night. New choices were distributed for reading responses. Select two activities from the list. This work will be collected
Friday, September 3.
c.) Check the blog for a developing vocabulary/word study list and other assignments.
We are in the process of introducing the new texts and activities for Language Arts.
Other notes: We are easing our way into the new textbooks for Literature as well as the new Grammar and Writing Textbook. Students will receive access codes . The books are online. There are activities, practice quizzes, and other materials online for students to complete .
The main office of the school will distribute the access code to Power School, or the electronic gradebook. You will have access to your child's grades 24/7. There is a mid-term progress report sent home during the middle of October, prior to parent-teacher conferences. Samples of your child's work are saved in a portfolio you will view during the October conference. The first trimester ends November 23. A report card will be issued December 10.
Incentives: Near the end of the school year an Honor Roll Recognition breakfast is held to acknowledge students who have been on the Brooks Honor Roll for the first and second trimesters.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

LANGUAGE ARTS-LaBarbera/Aug. 25-27,2010

Language Arts/LaBarbera/August 25-27, 2010

Reminders and homework:
1. Track down the computer and printer you will use for final typed drafts that will be completed during this trimester. You may bring your flash drive to school and use the library computers before school. The library opens at 8 a.m.
2. Renew or apply for a public library card ( Not homework.) This is recommended so that students have access to a wide choice of books for nightly reading.
3. Fill out the Parent Contact Sheet . Return it to school by Friday, Aug. 27. The sheet is kept in a file by the teacher. The information is not shared.
4. The student will select a novel to read at home. Nightly reading is required for at least 30 minutes per night. This time may be broken into two 15 minute time periods. The student will read the book and write a brief literature response.
"The title of the book I am reading is_________________________by ____author____.
I read from pages.._______ to _________. In the next section, I predict that ... ( What the characters will do...... the obstacles....... the outcome??? .....) The reason I think this is because...... ( This response may be brief. Some students may want to elaborate and that is encouraged. ) Due: Friday, August 27, 2010
This assignment will count as participation/ homework / literature response practice.
5. Parents will eventually receive a pass code to retrieve their child's grades in the electronic gradebook.
6. Please contact the teacher with any questions or concerns as we begin the academic program.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Language Arts/ LaBarbera/Grade 6/2010-2011 school year

Language Arts/ LaBarbera/Grade 6/2010-2011 school year.

Hello!! Welcome to Sixth Grade!! You are about to embark upon a learning adventure!!

Language Arts class will be an 80 minute block of time which will include literacy skills, novel study, responses to literature, writing process, expanding vocabulary, the six traits of writing, and the study of grammar. With an integrated approach and with our new Prentice Hall series your reading and writing will reach new heights.
Materials : You need to bring at least two black/blue pens , a spiral notebook, a pocket folder,and a slot in your accordion folder for Language Arts. Optional:( yellow lined writing process paper for first drafts.)
Check this blog for lesson topics, homework assignments, and general sixth grade updates.

How can a parent help the student ? Ask your child to "check the blog" , instead of asking if there is homework. Once you check the blog, you will know the homework assignment.
Encourage students to proofread their work. If you see glaring errors, say, " Check paragraph three for correct punctuation." Let your child own his/her work, but feel free to guide the student to correction.

Communication: This blog will be kept current through the school week. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the teacher. Let's work together for the progress of the child.