8th Grade Language Arts

Course Syllabus
2009-10
Class: 8th Grade Language Arts
Teachers: Mr. Steve Fulton
Email: fultons@kannapolis.k12.nc.us
Phone: (704) 932-4102 ext. 8409
Room: 409

Course Description: This course uses a variety of literature, media, and classroom
activities to achieve the following objectives:
-Develop reading skills and a greater appreciation for literature
-Increase understanding of the grammatical structure of Standard English
-Increase vocabulary knowledge and appreciation of words
-Develop a greater capacity for critical thinking and abstract thought
-Develop a better ability to cooperate and communicate with others

Textbooks (provided by instructor):

-Literature: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes, Prentice Hall, 2000
-Writing and Grammar, Communication in Action, Prentice Hall, 2000

Materials Required: These materials are needed specifically for this class. If they
cannot be obtained because of financial or other reasons, please notify Mr. Fulton as
soon as possible.
-a section of a 3-ring binder with loose leaf paper
-1 marble composition notebook
-pens, pencils, and colored pencils

Units Covered:
Nobody’s Perfect A Nation of Immigrants
A Long Way from Home
Justice
Smart Living

*Within the above units, we will incorporate literature circles, writer’s workshop,
and a research project

Grading: Your course grade is based on four important components:

1. 35% of your grade is based on in-class assignments
2. 35% of your grade is based on tests, papers, and projects
3. 30% of your grade is based on homework and class
participation

Grading Scale: 100-93 A

92.85 B
84.77 C
76.70 D
69-Below F