January is upon us. Time to regroup and map out the second half of our academic year. Seventh graders will participate in a school wide writing assessment on January 21st. Ms. Smart and I are encouraging our scribes to build up their writing
endurance, as they will be required to write for 100 minutes. Please
encourage your child to arrive at school rested, focused, and ready to
put forth a maximum effort.
We are continuing to explore and experiment with persuasive writing skills. Students are examining persuasive techniques used in advertising, newspapers, and television. During class discussions, we are analyzing the subtleties of argumentative techniques used in the media. Students will compose essays in response to specific writing prompts.
Next week we will examine different types of expository writing. Expository writing is a style of writing that conveys specific information. Expository models include descriptive, cause & effect, compare & contrast, and problem/solution. Students will become familiar with these different styles as they work through stages of prewriting, drafting, and revising.
Grammar warm ups will continue as we transition to Daily Grammar Practice. By the end of next week, your child will receive a grammar appendix to be kept in his/her binder. This will serve as a reference guide for our ongoing study of grammar concepts. It is essential that students some to class with language arts binder, notebook paper, and pens and pencils.
As always, continue to encourage your child to read for a minimum of 30 minutes a day. Leisure reading increases vocabulary, improves comprehension, and broadens horizons. No amount of screen time can duplicate the positive influence of reading.
Stay warm!