Petal Middle School
7​Grade Language Arts—2015-2016
2nd Nine Weeks Syllabus
th​
In order to continue a successful year, all the information below should be carefully reviewed and
followed.
Class Overview
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 constructing narrative,
expository, persuasive, and literary analysis 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 Mississippi College and Career Readiness Standards,
which may be viewed at ​
http://www.mde.k12.ms.us/MCCRS​
.
Textbooks
Prentice Hall Literature, Holt Elements of Literature, and Holt Elements of Grammar
Novels/Short Stories
Freak the Mighty​
by Rodman Philbrick
“Legend of Sleepy Hollow” Scholastic ​
Scope​
play
“The Necklace” Scholastic ​
Scope​
play
“The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street”
“Three Skeleton Key”
Writers and Poets of the Harlem Renaissance
● “I Too, Sing America”
● “I Hear America Singing”
● “If I should Have a Daughter”
● “Mother to Son”
● “Madam and the Rent Man”
● Other literature from this time period
Scholastic ​
Scope
**Students will also be required to read nonfiction and short fiction on various subjects.
Outside Reading Requirement
This nine weeks, the Reader’s Choice requirements will be different than the first nine weeks.
Students will be required to read ​
two​
novels this nine weeks. The first novel MUST BE FROM THE LIST
PROVIDED. The second novel may be the student’s choice. The first novel must be completed and a
test must be taken on the test by November 11. STUDENTS MAY NOT BEGIN THEIR BOOK PROJECT
UNTIL THEY PASS THE TEST FOR THEIR BOOK.
**​
Outside reading requirements will change each nine weeks.
Homework/Homework Policy
Students are expected to read 20-30 minutes every evening from their Independent novels. Students
will also have additional homework from class. These assignments are for enrichment, practice, and
review. Other assignments may include work that was not finished in class. Time will be allotted
during each class period to have students copy the assignments in their agendas and to review the
directions and expectations.
Electronic Devices
Because technology plays such an integral part in students’ lives, Petal Middle School has instituted a
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program. Personal mobile devices allowed in the classroom include
cell phones, Smartphones, Ipods/Ipads, and tablets with Internet capabilities. However, electronic
devices will only be used for educational purposes. Students are expected to follow the school and
classroom guidelines for proper electronics usage and show excellent digital citizenship. Failure to
comply with the classroom and school usage rules may result in the confiscation of the device and loss
of electronic privileges.
**Please note that the Petal School District or teachers accept NO responsibility for lost, stolen, or
damaged devices. If a student chooses to bring his/her phone to school, he/she must accept full
responsibility of the device.
Plagiarism/Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is expected on all assignments. Plagiarism is defined as presenting the work of
another as one’s own. Cheating on an assignment or assessment is another activity that violates ethics
and school rules. Any work that exhibits cheating/plagiarism will result in a zero, parental notification,
and disciplinary action may be taken.
Absences
It is the student’s responsibility to ask for make up work. Assignments for the week are posted on the
whiteboard and are accessible through the teacher’s webpage. Students have one day for each
excused absence to turn in missing work. In the event of an extended absence, personal
arrangements will be made.
Additional Help
If a student needs additional help with an assignment beyond the classroom or needs access to a
computer/printer, there are several options available. The library is open each morning at 8:oo for
checking out books, using the computer, printing and/or a quiet place to work. Students may also get
a pass from his/her teacher to come in before school to complete work or receive help. Teachers ARE
in their rooms each day.
Tardies
Students are expected to be in their seat with required materials ready when the bell rings. If a
student is running late from another class, he/she must have a pass to excuse the tardy.
Grading
Assignments are expected to be turned in on time. Ten points will be deducted for each day an
assignment is late.
Grading Scale
A = 90 to 100
B = 80 to 89
C = Fair - 70 to 79
below
Weighting Scale
Assessments
65%
Daily Grades
35%
**Please use Active Parent to keep a check on your child’s grades.
D = 65 to 69
F = 64 or
C​
lassroom Rules
We maintain high expectations for ourselves and our students. The following rules are in place to
create a safe and positive learning environment for ALL students.
**Note: Detailed classroom procedures are posted in the room for students to see.
Respect for Self
I will always do my best.
I will positively participate in all classroom activities.
Respect for Others
I will stay on task without disturbing or distracting others.
I will not use “put downs” or harass others.
I will respect other people’s differences and opinions.
Respect for School
I will raise my hand to speak.
I will enter and exit the room quickly and quietly.
I will actively listen when the teacher or my classmate is speaking.
Behavior and Discipline
Students are expected to arrive to class on time, be prepared with books and materials, and show
respect. Students are also expected to adhere to the school wide and classroom rules and
expectations at all times.
● Electronic devices (cell phones, ipods, video games, etc.) are not permitted unless they are
being used for instructional purposes. If a student is a using a cell phone during class, it will be
taken up until the end of class. If a student uses a device in an inappropriate manner, the
device will be confiscated and turned in to the principal along with an office referral.
● No gum chewing, eating, or drinking (juices, colas, etc.). Water bottles are allowed.
● Hats should be removed within the building.
Individual Consequences
If a student is acting inappropriately or being disruptive the following steps will be taken:
1. Verbal Correction—student reminded to be on task
2. Refocus—student moves from the group to refocus his/her attention
3. Parent contacted
4. Student will be issued a demerit
*Incorrigible/Violent Behavior-automatic disciplinary referral and removal from classroom
Helpful Hints for a Successful Year
● Write down/record all assignments to be completed at home.
● Complete assignments promptly and place them in your work folder.
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Save and organize all papers until the end of each marking period or as otherwise instructed.
Submit QUALITY work.
Read for a minimum of 20 minutes every night.
Come to class on time and prepared to work.
Keep absences to a minimum.
Be accountable for your own work, speech, and actions.
Have a positive attitude and ask for help if you are struggling with an assignment.
We are looking forward to the continuation of an exciting and productive year. Parents, please email
your child’s teacher during the year if you would like to discuss your child’s progress. We are available
and ready to be of assistance.
We are here to support you! Let’s continue to have a wonderful school year together. Go PANTHERS!
Mrs. Hocutt
Mrs. McKay
Mrs. Sims
Mrs. Townsend
*Please print this page and sign below indicating that you and your students have reviewed this
syllabus. If you are unable to print this page, a hard copy will be provided for you.
I have read the syllabus and understand the expectations for a successful year in Language Arts .
______________________________________
Parent or Guardian
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Date
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Student
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Date