7

th
Grade Language Arts Syllabus
Ms. Trottas Class: 2014-2015
Curriculum
During the course of your year in language arts, we will be covering many different
topics and lessons. This course will cover: literature, grammar, writing (both creative and
expository), vocabulary, spelling, organization, and communication. In literature, we will
study several novels from different styles and categories of fictional prose in order to
enrich your comprehension, enhance your fluency, and foster your love of reading. Our
lessons in grammar will help prepare you for the level of writing required of an upper
middle school or high school student, helping you form more complex and rich sentences to
better reflect the many deep thoughts and ideas you wish to discuss at this point in your
development. In writing we will learn the processes for composing different styles of
essays and practice writing with multiple points-of-view and intentions. Our lessons in
spelling and vocabulary will also help you to become a more masterful speaker, writer, and
communicator. I will also strive to help you become a more organized individual in order
to improve your overall academic career and make life easier in general.

Grading
Tests, essays, projects, and proper organization of notebook/binder: 1/3 of your
overall grade
Homework (graded): 1/3 of your overall grade
Class participation and behavior (including dramatic readings) : 1/3 of your overall
grade



Student Responsibilities
You will be expected to adhere to the rules of the school and procedures of our
classroom at all times. Any violations of these rules and procedures hurt our
learning environment and will not be tolerated.
You will be expected to complete your homework in a timely fashion, putting forth
your best effort. Failure to complete your homework on the day it is due will result
in a ten point deduction for each day you neglect to hand in the work.
You will be expected to come to class with all necessary materials for the lesson.
You will not be allowed to return to your locker. Failure to have your materials
WILL impact your participation grade.
You will be expected to treat your textbook with respect. It must be covered at all
times; failure to keep your book covered will detract from your overall average in
my class. Defacing of your text will become a larger issue with Mrs. Kopas, your
parents, and me. You will be expected to pay for all damages, and additional
punishments will be issued.
You will be expected to behave in a mature fashion in our classroom. It is extremely
important that language arts class be a place where you feel comfortable sharing
your opinions, thoughts, and feelings. This can only happen if we work together as a
tea to ensure everyones comfort through mutual respect.
You will be expected to seek extra help when needed. Please do not hesitate to ask
for help. Knowing when and how to reach out to a teacher is an important part of
becoming a more mature student.
You will be expected to work neatly on all assignments, tests, and notes. Neatness
will ALWAYS factor into your grade; taking pride in your work shows effort.





7
th
Grade Language Arts Contract: 2014-2015
I have carefully read the language arts syllabus with my parent(s), and I understand
all of the expectations of the course. I intend to try my hardest to adhere to these
guidelines and to behave with respect in our classroom. I will be responsible for my
materials and will maintain them in the proper state. I understand that if I violate the
rules and procedures of my class or fail to live up to the expectations of the course, my
parent(s) will be contacted and a game plan will be established to help me succeed. I
promise to seek help when I need it and to maintain an organized work routine. I also
promise to treat my materials, classmates, and educational spaces with respect at all
times.

Student signature: ___________________________________________________________________
Date:________________________________________
Parent(s) signature: ___________________________________________________________________
Date:________________________________________
Teacher signature:____________________________________________________________________