Simmons Middle School

8th Grade Language Arts

Mrs. Megan Wollman

Email:
megan.wollman@k12.sd.us
Phone: 605-725-7931

In order to ensure a successful academic year, all the information below should be carefully
reviewed and followed.
Course Description:
In reading, students will focus on comprehension and analytical reading skills through the
study of a variety
of authors and genres. Students will learn how successful readers think and visualize when
they read, interact with, and examine text. In writing, we will focus on construction narrative,
expository, argumentative, and research pieces. Additionally, we will learn how to write
meaningful and concise short responses, summaries, and be able to cite text references.
Curriculum:
The curriculum for this course aligns with the English Language Arts Common Core
State Standards, which can be viewed on
http://www.doe.sd.gov/octe/documents/ccELA_612.pdf.
Textbook:
Literature: Language and Literacy, Prentice Hall, 2010
Reality Central, Prentice Hall, 2010
Class Novels, Short Stories, Plays and Poetry:
We will read a variety of works in these genres, including Flowers for Algernon by Daniel
Keyes, The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe, and A Glow in the Dark by Gary Paulsen.
Novels:
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
*Note: You may wish to purchase personal copies or use the public library to
obtain copies of the class novels for home use. Copies are available for check
out in limited quantities*
Outside Reading Requirement:
In addition to classroom reading, students will be responsible for reading self-selected, level
appropriate novels throughout the year. The novel should be in class every day. Students
will be responsible for the completion of a variety of reading reflections and should be
prepared to have book discussions in class related to their self-selected outside reading.
Homework/Homework Policy:
You will occasionally have additional homework in my class. These assignments are for
enrichment, exercise, practice and review. Other assignments may include work that was not
completed in class. I will allot time during each class period to have students copy the
assignments in their agendas and to review the directions and expectations. Students who
do not submit fully completed homework on the due date will complete in ICU.
ICU:
ICU is a program that is twofold- first it offers assistance to students who need help with
assignments/test/homework, etc. Secondly, ICU ensures all students complete their work to
illustrate their learning. This system is designed to give students other resources and choices

Simmons Middle School

8th Grade Language Arts
Mrs. Megan Wollman

about doing their workyoure your student is on ICU, expect a phone call on Mondays to notify
you. ICU takes place Mondays and Wednesdays after school and Tuesdays through Fridays in
the morning.
Writing:
Academic integrity is expected with all assignments. Copied/plagiarized work will not
receive credit and may result in disciplinary consequences. In preparation for high school,
ALL major essays are required to follow MLA format. This means that the paper must
have a proper heading and be typed (double spaced,
12 pt. Times New Roman font). I encourage all students to have a flash drive to save work.
Work must be submission ready. It is the students responsibility to type, print, and/or
email papers prior to the assigned due date. You must consult with your teacher prior
to the submission due date if you have printer issues.
Absences:
It is the students responsibility to retrieve missed handouts/assignments from the missed
assignment folder. Assignments for the week are posted on the homework board. Students
have two days for each excused absence to turn in missing work. In the event of an
extended absence, personal arrangements will be made.
Help Time:
If a student needs additional help with an assignment beyond the academic school day or
needs access to technology, please notify me before the due date. Students may schedule
a help session for additional support.
Tardies:
You are expected to be in your seat with required materials ready at the start of the class
period. If you are running late from another class you must have a pass to excuse the
tardy. Unexcused tardies result in detention.
Grading Policy:
All grades will be based on points. The following are the weighted categories for Language
Arts classes. Grades can be viewed at any time on Infinite Campus. Please allow three days
after due date for grades to be posted.
A = 93% 100%

B = 84% - 92% C = 75% 83% D = 67% 74% F =66% or

below
Retakes/ Redos are available for all students at the teachers discretion. Students will be
required to submit a retake/redo plan sheet and provide evidence of relearning efforts before
assignments/ tests can be redone.
Needed Materials:

Paper
Folder with bottom pockets (vinyl/plastic coated preferred)
Pencils or blue/black ballpoint pens
Editing pen (red)
Highlighters of different colors
Colored pencils
Pencil sharpener
Eraser
Suggested: Flash drive (2 GB or higher)

Class Rules:
1.
Respect yourself.
2.
Respect others.
3.
Respect the class community.

Simmons Middle School

8th Grade Language Arts
Mrs. Megan Wollman
Block Scheduling:
Language Arts is a two-period class, which allows us time to read, write, think, reflect, and
collaborate. Students typically have more time to complete projects and receive
individualized instruction as needed. However, projects not finished in class are expected to
be completed outside of school.
I am looking forward to an exciting and challenging year of learning. Parents and guardians,
please email me at any time if you wish to discuss your childs progress.
GO EAGLES!
Mrs. Wollman