ejones@allendaleschoolsnj 201-327-2021 ext. 2219

1. Ms. Jonesformer cable TV executive; 11th year as an educator; majored in English because I’m passionate about reading and writing ejones@allendaleschoolsnj.com 201-327-2021 ext. 2219

2. 21st Century Education encourages students to • be engaged, curious learners by asking • What? • So What? Why does this matter? • So What now? • read and think analytically. • organize their ideas to solve problems. • identify and focus on significant issues. • understand cultural, political, and historical perspectives.

3. 21st Century Learners • Want to have a say in their education. • Often have higher levels of digital literacy than their parents or teachers. • Demand the freedom to show their wild creativity. • Balk at rote learning and memorizing. • Want to connect with others in real time on their own terms. • Collaborate amazingly well. • Appreciate a “trial and error” approach to learning new skills. • Learn by doing. • Have a “can do” attitude. • Use the internet to find information. • Are open to change.

4. Language Arts six classes over a five day period • Grammar – extra class and integrated into writing lessons • Reading – by unit blocks • Vocabulary – incorporated into reading and writing units • Writing – by unit blocks

5. Grammar • Language standards in the Common Core for grade level conventions of standard English are infused into the curriculum throughout the school year. • Common grammar mistakes will be reviewed in mini-lessons.

6. Reading • The curriculum follows the Reader’s Workshop model where students will have the opportunity to read wonderful pieces of literature, both whole class and independently, based on thematic units. • Whole class reading: • 6thTuck Everlasting • 7th The Giver • 8th Lord of the Flies

7. Reading continued • Student goals for this year • Read more books • Increase reading comprehension • Improve reading stamina • Read a greater variety of genres • How parents can help • Read the same book as your child(ren) and have book discussions • Turn off the TV, video games, PC, etc. an hour before bedtime to encourage reading

8. Writing • Writing assignments will follow the Writer’s Workshop model that incorporates a multi-step approach to writing. • Writing assignments will include personal narrative, informational, argument, and entertainment. Some assignments will require additional research to support the writing tasks and infuse 21st Century technology. Students will use parenthetical documentation (MLA format) to cite sources and create a formal Works Cited page.

9. Vocabulary • Expanding students’ vocabulary is an ongoing activity throughout the entire year. The district will introduce a new vocabulary program this school year to focus on the vocabulary acquisition and use standards detailed in the Common Core.

10. Grading • Assignments are graded on a point system. • Homework assignments usually range from 5 points to 20 points. • Quizzes usually have a 50 point value. • Writing assignment point values vary depending upon the length and complexity of the assignment.

11. Extra Help • Offered after school on as an needed basis. • Students should schedule 1 – 2 days in advance.

12. Technology and LA • Students will use technology in the classroom and at home to enhance their learning: • Google Drive • Prezis • TED Talks • VoiceThread • iMovie

13. Stay Updated on LA • If you want to know what’s happening in LA class, • First ask your child: homework and the day’s activities are posted on the whiteboard and reviewed at the beginning of class. I also post class notes on my school web site. My weekly lesson plans are posted on the back bulletin board. • Engage in dinner table discussions about the units; use the “essential questions” as conversation starters. • Next, check Genesis for specific assignments and grades or check the web site School Wires for details on the reading and writing units. • If you still have questions, email me.