Language Arts with Mrs. Burnham

Mrs. Burnham's Language Arts class engages students in the many aspects of learning about the English language. Grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills lessons are intertwined with literature, poetry, and the use of technology to reach the needs of all students.

Writing is taught in lessons that encourage students to learn and evaluate the process and the purpose of their writing. Students learn specific techniques for improving their writing and are expected to apply them in assignments that reflect a variety of genres. Each assignment has a specific goal and students are encouraged to become comfortable with the process of revising and editing multiple drafts to meet these goals. Students are graded on the process of their effort and are asked to self assess their work to examine their growth as a writer.

 Grammar lessons on the parts of speech and the mechanics of writing are taught in traditional units. These skills are revisited throughout the year and are applied in the writing lessons and in the writing process. Vocabulary and principles of grammar are reinforced in daily activities to allow students to build their own connections for retaining these concepts.

Vocabulary is taught weekly with an emphasis on learning word parts and meanings, and includes instruction for using dictionaries and thesauruses as writing tools. This allows students to build their own vocabulary for writing and speaking, as well as improve their spelling skills. Vocabulary building is vital as preparation for the S.A.T., an essential test that is taken in the junior year of high school as a standard for college admission. Vocabulary practice is assigned each week, and students are assessed at the end of each five-week unit.

Literature and poetry are used to enrich the experience of writing for students. Authors and poets are shared and students are encouraged to recognize techniques and styles that can be applied to their own writing. A short story unit is highlighted in the eighth grade and regular responses to poetry are assigned for both grades. Frequently scheduled visits to the school media center allow students the opportunity to learn about and use the variety of resources available to them in the library, as well as a chance to chose books for skills classes.

Technology is a prominent tool in this classroom and is used in a variety of ways. Students develop skills in word processing to create and improve the format of their written work. As a study tool, students use their computer to create study guides and materials to enhance the study process. The Internet is used for research, and online sites are incorporated in lessons to develop specific skills. Apple Works Presentation and iMovie are also used to creatively present ideas and knowledge.

Progress Reports and student self-assessments are issued regularly and when signed by parents are applied to the student's class participation grade. Extra help is offered to all students every Thursday after school, or as needed by parent request.

The tasks and responsibilities of this class are designed to prepare all students for the high school experience, and to reflect on and respond to the world around them. All lessons and assignments are designed to meet the goals of the local curriculum and the Maine State Learning Results.