Mrs. Jeanne Rausch

Mrs. Jeanne Rausch

Mrs. Jeanne Rausch

7th Grade Reading

2009-2010 School Year – 1st Quarter

  1. Course Objective: The objective of 7th grade Reading is for scholars to develop a greater understanding of written and spoken language through the study and analysis of compelling literature. Scholars will learn to how to comprehend, analyze, and critique effectively a variety of genre while growing in their appreciation of the art of language.
  2. Materials: One 3-ring binder (may be shared with another class if necessary), 5 tab dividers, paper – college or wide ruled are acceptable, pencil and pen, 3x5 index cards, construction paper, and markers, colored pencils, or crayons
  3. Grading Scale:
  4. A - 100% - 90%
  5. B - 89% - 80%
  6. C – 79% - 74%
  7. D – 73% - 70%
  8. F – 69% and below
  9. Evaluations: I provide a variety of assessments to ensure the success of all scholars. I also provide many opportunities for scholars to obtain grades to ensure that they are able to redeem their average in the event that they do not perform to their potential on any given assignment. Scholars’ work will be measured as follows:
  10. Homework (15% of final average): The homework load will be minimal, but consistent. Scholars can expect to have 5-10 minutes of homework, 3 days a week. Most homework will be graded on completion rather than accuracy.
  11. Reading Logs: In addition, scholars are expected to read 60 pages or 75 minutes per week, which they may break up however they wish. They will record this assignment in a reading log, which will be checked randomly. Scholars are to choose books from a teacher-approved reading list for their reading logs. Scholars may read a book that is not on the list, but they must receive prior approval from the instructor. This policy is put in place to ensure that scholars are reading books of literary merit that will improve their reading skills.
  12. Class work (20% of final average): Scholars can expect to work diligently in class in order to maintain a low homework load. Class work includes a variety of assessments, from “do-now” assignments to independent work to participation in group discussions.
  13. Quizzes (25% of final average): Scholars will have vocabulary quizzes every other Wednesday, beginning August 19th. Each quiz will be comprised of 10-12 curriculum-related terms and/or words from selections the class is reading. There may also be unannounced quizzes based on the concepts scholars are studying in class. These quizzes will be minimal – no more than 2 per grading period.
  14. Tests and Projects (40% of final average): Scholars will have a minimum of 2 tests per grading period and 2 projects. Tests will always be announced at least a week in advance, although it is recommended scholars study their notes regularly, regardless of whether or not a test is scheduled, to maximize retention. All projects will be done in class.
  1. Make-Up/Late Work:
  2. For excused absences, scholars will have the number of days they were absent to make up missed assignments. Scholars may make up quizzes and tests in class or after school. It is the responsibility of the scholar to obtain and submit any work missed due to absence.
  3. Per school-wide policy, scholars may submit work one day late for a 10% reduction, 2 days late for a 20% reduction, and 3 days late for a 30% reduction. Work will not be accepted more than 3 days late. Furthermore, it is the scholar’s responsibility to keep up with missing work. Scholars will not be reminded of their missing work by the teacher. Cataloguing all work in the student agenda is strongly recommended to prevent scholars from forgetting assignments.
  4. Academic Dishonesty: Scholars are strongly encouraged to protect their intellectual property. Receiving or giving information for an assignment is cheating, and when caught in the act, scholars will not receive credit nor receive the opportunity to make the work up. Plagiarism is not acceptable. If a scholar takes information from the Internet or any printed source without proper citation, it is considered plagiarism and will result in a reduction in grade and a disciplinary referral.
  5. Expectations:
  6. For Scholars:
  7. Be Prepared – Scholars should come to class prepared to work hard and do their best. They should bring all materials needed to achieve success, including assignments due that day.
  8. Be Prompt – Coming to class late is disruptive and shows a disrespect for the class, the teacher, and your fellow scholars. Being prompt also includes responding to instruction in an appropriate time frame and submitting work in a timely fashion.
  9. Be Polite – The Golden Rule was named as such for a reason. Treat everyone as you wish to be treated. Disrespect of the teacher, fellow scholars, or ones self will not be tolerated. Scholars will exemplify Ivy Prep values at all times.
  10. For the Teacher:
  11. Be Prepared – The teacher will plan diligently and always have what is needed to help scholars reach their full potential.
  12. Be Prompt – The teacher will be organized and equipped for the day in a timely fashion, with respect to the schedules of her scholars. Assignments will be graded and posted weekly. The teacher will also respond to scholar and parent communication in a timely fashion.
  13. Be Polite – The teacher will show the same respect to scholars and parents that she expects to receive from them. Sarcasm is the opposite of communication and will not be used. Negativity is counter-productive to scholars’ success and will not be used.
  14. For Parents:
  15. Be Prepared – Parents should stay informed on what is happening at school. Check pbworks sites and PowerSchool frequently to minimize surprises.
  16. Be Prompt – Parents should return signed forms and respond to communication in a timely manner.
  17. Be Polite – Parents should encourage and model an attitude of positive and respectful communication with scholars and the teacher.

In addition, scholars must adhere to the policies given in the code of conduct.

  1. Major Assignments:The test and project schedule is as follows:
  2. Friday, August 21: Test on The Egypt Game.
  3. Friday, August 28: Project due on summer reading book. Scholars are to do a project based on one of the books they read from the required summer reading list. A rubric will be provided.
  4. Thursday, September 17: Project due on The Outsiders.
  5. Tuesday, September 29: Test on The Outsiders.

Please note that these dates are subject to change based on the progress made in class. Additional test dates may be added as the grading period progresses.

Detach and Return the Form Below to Mrs. Rausch

Parent and Scholar Acknowledgement

There are several factors in place to ensure that each student has a challenging, engrossing, productive and successful year, and with the consent of both the scholar and the parent(s), there is no doubt that this year will be one of the best yet! This syllabus is not created to discourage the scholars or to complicate the learning experience. It is intended to state clearly the expectations and to hold the scholars responsible for theirrole in the success of this academic year. Please note that the contents of this syllabus are subject to change without prior notification by the teacher. If there are any questions and/or concerns please feel free to call me at the school 770-342-0089 or email me at . Thank you so much for your cooperation and support!

After completely reading this syllabus, we understand and agree to the course requirements. Please sign accordingly and return to the instructor.

Scholar (Print)______

Scholar’s Signature: ______Date:______

Parent/Guardian Name (Print) ______

Parent/Guardian Signature ______Date______

Phone number (whichever is the best for daytime contact): ______

Email address: ______

Please Return to Mrs. Rausch by Tuesday, August 11.

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