Benjamin Stoddert Middle School

Course Requirements for Language Arts

Ms. Cantwell, Trailer 1
dcantwell@ccboe.com, 301-753-1788 extension 138148
For the 2016-2017 school year, students will complete course work that splits the block
into two sections. One portion of the class will emphasize the reading process and will
serve to provide students with time to practice reading skills while utilizing a small group
structure. Additionally, a portion of the class will be dedicated to learning the eighth
grade curriculum, which includes reading a variety of texts and executing different
activities.

Materials Needed:
A BOOK-a grade level appropriate literary or informational text that
will be used during silent reading.
A blank notebook- Will be used as an interactive notebook for warmups and daily activities
Pen/Pencil
Folder
Binder with Language Arts section
Springboard- Springboard has a variety of texts that students will use
to supplement the eighth grade curriculum.
Agenda book is required for every class! Students can use their
agenda to record homework and it serves as their pass if they need to
leave class.
**All items except their binder will be kept in the classroom.
Procedures/Conduct:
Enter the room quietly and be seated (start warm-up immediately)
Be prepared for class (binder, pen, paper, a mind to learn, etc.)
Raise hand and wait to be called upon when there is a question or
comment
RESPECT others and yourself at ALL times
Wait for the teacher to dismiss you-NOT the bell
Types of Assignments:
Daily assignments will vary and include the following: completing daily
warm-ups, reading minute responses, reading and writing activities, and

grammar activities. Situations will arise in which students will be expected

to participate in independent reading and writing. Also, they will be
analyzing and studying various forms of literature, taking class notes,
participating in class discussions and activities, defining vocabulary words
and taking quizzes.
*Many times, students may find themselves working on these assignments
in stations.
*A structure which uses small groups will be a regularly used practice in our
classroom.
*There will be weekly homework collected every Friday.
Major assignments include any work in which students are given an
extended amount of time to prepare. In addition, they will write for a
variety of purposes in order to achieve their understanding of the literature
presented. Major assignments include tests, projects, reading assigned
novels, formal writing assignments, and essays.
Grading Policy (First, Second, Fourth Marking Period):
Class work: 40%
Major Assignments (Tests, Quizzes, Projects, Essays): 50%
Homework: 10%
3rd Quarter:
Students will take a pre-test during the 1st quarter that will not be factored
into the student grade. During the 3rd quarter, students will take a post-test
that will count as 10% of the 3rd quarter grade. The breakdown for 3rd
quarter will be Classroom: 40%, Major Assignments: 45%, Homework: 5,
CCPS POST TEST (CCPS): 10%.
Make-up Work:
Make-up Assignments (absences): It is his/her responsibility to request
the work from the teacher.
Announced Tests/ Projects: If a student is absent on the day of an
announced test, or the due date of a project, the student must complete the
test or turn in the project on the first day he/she returns to school.
**If there are extenuating circumstances, please contact me.
Contact Information:
I am always open to suggestions and ways to help improve your childs
experience in my class. If there are any questions, problems or concerns,
please contact me.
I am looking forward to working with each of you this school year!
Ms. Cantwell

School number: 301-753-1788

E-mail: dcantwell@ccboe.com
I am authorizing that I have reviewed the classroom policies and
expectations with my parents.
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Parent Name (Printed)
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Parent Signature

Student Name (Printed)

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Student Initials