8th Grade ELA

Course Description
The 8th grade English Language Arts class is divided into six thematic units of study and based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) which will incorporate the interconnected nature of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking to develop and sustain comprehension, response, multiple genres, author's purpose and craft, composition, and inquiry and research. In addition, students will: 
 
  • Critically interpret and evaluate experiences in literature, language, and ideas. 
  • Develop analytical and interpretive skills in various genres. 
  • Develop open-ended responses by gathering and interpreting textual evidence from various genres. 
  • Develop advanced vocabulary to prepare for standardized tests including STAAR. 
  • Think and speak critically and persuasively in a variety of situations. 
  • Participate in group discussions and cooperative learning activities. 
  • Become self-directed, critical learners who work collaboratively with others. 
Policies and Procedures
Absences:
Per the ECISD handbook, students will be allowed to make up work missed due to any excused absence. The time allotted will be one day for each day of absence. Make-up work will be posted in the classroom. 
 
Unexcused Absences:
Homework and classwork must be completed despite an absence. The attendance office will determine whether an absence is excused. 
 
Exemptions: 
Students enrolled in high school credit courses (English I, Algebra I, Geometry, Spanish, BIM) may choose to exempt (not take) a semester exam at the end of the fall and spring terms. 
 
In order to claim an exemption, students must have 1) an overall average for the semester of 85-89, no more than two excused absences, and no tardies or referrals, or 2) an overall average for the semester of 90 and above, no more than three excused absences, and no tardies or referrals. 
 
Grades:
Per the ECISD handbook, grades are taken on a points-based system. Students must have a minimum of 8 grades per grading period. Students will be given the opportunity to know missing/failing grades on a 3 week basis. Assignments with a grade below 70 may be re-taken at the student's request for a grade no higher than 70. 
 
Homework Policy: 
  • Ten (10) points will be deducted each day an assignment is late. 
  • Late work will not be accepted 3 days after the due date. 
  • Assignments with a failing grade due to late points deducted cannot be re-done. 
 
I understand that life is full of unforeseen circumstances (look at this year so far). If there should ever come a time when you are unable to complete your assignments or turn in your work on time due to situations beyond your control, I urge you to please reach out to me so that we can make adjustments.  
Interactive Classroom
Enter your text here...Interactive Classroom
To visit the 8th Grade ELA Interactive Classroom, click on the link below Important Links on the left hand side of this page. 
 
The Interactive Classroom contains links to important resources such as Skyward, our school library, and your digital textbook. Through the Interactive Classroom, you can also access instructions for daily assignments. 
Important Links
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