“Keep calm and…OOH! A new book!”
Course Description:
This course strengthens students’ reading, grammar, and writing skills through the study of engaging literature and informational texts. Students analyze how authors use language, structure, and style, and apply these techniques to their own writing. Emphasis is placed on developing clear, well-organized writing supported by strong grammar and thoughtful reading comprehension.
Course Goals:
• Read and analyze grade-level fiction and nonfiction texts
• Recognize how grammar, sentence structure, and word choice impact meaning
• Write clear, varied sentences using correct grammar and punctuation
• Apply parts of speech and sentence structure to their writing
• Develop organized paragraphs and multi-paragraph compositions
• Revise and edit writing for clarity, structure, and correctness
Instructional Methods:
• Close reading and guided discussion of texts
• Direct grammar instruction integrated with writing
• Step-by-step writing instruction
• Editing and proofreading practice
• Regular feedback and revision opportunities
• Motivational projects, games, and activities to keep students excited and interested
• Mobile library access to encourage a love for reading
Course Outcome: By the end of the course, students will be able to read critically and write clearly, using proper grammar and effective organization to communicate their ideas.
“Books are like pizza—there’s always room for more.”
The following textbooks, novels, and supplies are to be purchased by parents.
Under Class Details, see Class Attachment for a picture of the textbooks and novels.
Novels:
James and the Giant Peach
by Roald Dahl
ISBN-10 : 0142410365
ISBN-13 : 978-0142410363
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
ISBN-10 : 0063437562
ISBN-13 : 978-0063437562
Hatchet
by Gary Paulsen
ISBN-10 : 1416936475
ISBN-13 : 978-1416936473
The Princess and the Goblin
by George Macdonald
ISBN-13 : 979-8886004304
Middle School Reading Journal
By Not Consumed
(not available on Amazon)
Short stories, poetry, and all grammar and writing curriculum will be provided by the teacher.
Supplies:
3-ring binder (at least 2")
Dividers
Loose-leaf paper
Pencils/pens
Pencil pouch
Erasers
Colored pencils
Highlighters
Post-It Notes
Scissors
Tape
Stapler
Successful completion of KEYS Elementary Language Arts Level I or by permission of the instructor. If students are NOT CURRENTLY ENROLLED in a KEYS Math or English class, we require Placement Evaluations to be sure 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.
KEYS will invoice supply fees at the time of registration and class selection. This fee covers materials, lab supplies, and other expenses incurred by the teacher. It is a one-time fee, transferable until August, but non-refundable.
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.
