This class is designed to ensure that students have a solid knowledge base in grammar, writing skills, and literature. First, we will learn to write proper sentences and paragraphs. Then, we will combine paragraphs to create story sequences, essays, reports, and poetry. Students will learn to use creative words to “dress up” their writing and how to start sentences in different ways to make their writing more interesting. Students should expect 3 to 4 one-paragraph papers and 1 or 2 three to five-paragraph papers each quarter. Rubrics are used to evaluate papers, and good writing habits, such as outlining and revising, will be learned. We will cover basic grammar concepts, including parts of speech, phrases, clauses, and punctuation. We will also cover vocabulary. Lastly, we will read quality literature, about one novel a quarter, with poems and short stories mixed in. Students will begin to identify the setting, characters, and plot sequence. Additionally, we will use creative projects, review games, movement, motivational and other learning activities to enhance the work and make it enjoyable for all. To encourage a love for reading, a “mobile library” will be available for students to check books out. They will keep a reading log each month, which can be turned in for extra credit. Students should have access to the internet and a word processing program. This class allows students the opportunity to attend three years in a row and not repeat books or assignments. The same basic category of skills is taught, but different literature and assignments are used each year. Students may join in at any time in the rotation and not feel behind.
Novels:
The Family Under the Bridge- ISBN 978-0-06-440250-7
Because of Winn Dixie- ISBN 978-0-7636-4432-1
The Borrowers-ISBN 9780152047375
The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe ISBN 9780064409421
Acting Out-ISBN 9781416938491
Love That Dog-ISBN 9780064409599
Christian Heroes Then and Now: Amy Carmichael-Rescuer of Precious Gems ISBN 978-1576580189
Textbooks:
IEW’s All Things Fun and Fascinating
2nd edition, 2012
ISBN: 9780980100525
Fix-It! Grammar: Level 2
Town Mouse and Country Mouse Fourth Edition, January 2022
Student book only
ISBN: 9781623413590
Under Class Details, see the Class Attachment for a picture of the textbook.
Short stories and any additional poetry will be provided by the teacher.
Supplies:
3-ring binder (at least 1.5")
Dividers
Loose-leaf paper
Pencils/pens
Colored pencils
Highlighters
If students are NOT CURRENTLY ENROLLED in a Math or English class at KEYS, we require Placement Evaluations to ensure they are placed at the best level to help them be successful in the coming year. Please contact the office to schedule an evaluation prior to class selection.
Parents are responsible for purchasing all textbooks and supplies before the first day of class.
Supply fees are due to each teacher on the first day of class. This fee covers materials, lab supplies, and other expenses incurred by the teacher. They are a one-time fee.
Please note the grade level for this class. Students younger than the recommended grade levels need special permission before signing up for the class. Please contact the office for more information.
What happens if a class is full? You may email administration@keysofva.org to be waitlisted.
