7th Grade ELA Syllabus 2019-2020

Course Description: In seventh grade English Language Arts, students continue to develop an appreciation of written and
spoken language. They expand their use of descriptive words and complex sentences, as well as their choices of modes of writing.
Throughout seventh grade, students increase their ability to critique constructively their own work as well as the work of others.
Students use oral language, written language, and media and technology for expressive, informational, argumentative, critical,
and literary purposes. Students use the stages of the writing process to write clear, coherent compositions that develop an idea or
tell a story.

Reading and Literature Writing

 Students will read and analyze a variety of literary texts
such as poetry, drama, short stories, novels, and nonfiction
to acquire an understanding of the conventions of each
form.
 Students will read and analyze a variety of informational
texts to develop an understanding of organizational
structures, such as cause and effect or comparison-contrast,
and graphic features, such as diagrams and illustrations
that are typically found in nonfiction.
 Students will acquire new vocabulary and use it
effectively in reading and writing.
 Students will recognize and trace the development of the
author’s argument for and against an issue.
Reading Across the Curriculum
 Students will read the equivalent of 1 million words per
year from a variety of subject areas.
 Students write to prove, report, and describe. An
emphasis is placed on organizing logical
arguments with clearly expressed related
definitions, theses, and evidence.
 Students will use technology to research topics
and to produce various products such as essays
and presentations.
Language
 Students will learn and apply the rules of
Standard English in written and oral language.
Listening, Speaking, and Viewing
 Students will participate in effective oral
interaction with the teacher and with other
students.
 Students will listen to and view various forms of
media in order to gather and share information,
persuade others, and express ideas.

7th Grade GRADING:

Summative Assessments: 40%

Tests/Projects/Essays/Performance Tasks

Formative Assessments: 30%

Quizzes/Performance Tasks/Vocabulary Checks
Daily Work: 20%
Journals/Portfolios/Conventions Studies
 Homework/Practice: 10%
TOD/Interactive Notebook/Warm-up/Bell-
Ringers
LATE WORK / MAKE-UP WORK: Students are required to turn assignments in on time. Students who turn in late
assignments will be subject to partial credit. Students who miss assignments because of absences will have an opportunity
to make up missed work. Students are given one calendar day for each day absence + one day to turn in the work. It is each
student’s responsibility to check with the teacher about any make-up work. See your teacher for possible opportunities to
make up zeroes.

I have read the above continuation criteria: X______________________________________(parent signature)

*Please note that the cost of replacing a textbook is $82.*

In support of ECMS reading actions, students should always have a book for individual and personal reading!

Cellphone/Device Policy

If a student is in possession of a cellphone/device upon entering a classroom…

• Cellphone/Devices must be docked in the pocket docking station upon entering class. (STUDENTS WILL NOT BE
PERMITTED TO RETURN THE DEVICES TO THEIR LOCKERS; IF THEY ARE IN POSSESSION OF PHONES UPON
ENTERING CLASS, PHONES MUST BE DOCKED IN THE ASSIGNED DOCKING POCKETS IN THE CLASSROOM).

• Cellphone/Devices should not be seen or heard in the classroom, lunchrooms, or at school unless it has been
deemed appropriate for instructional use ONLY by an instructor, enacting BYOD, which will be communicated prior to or
at the beginning of class.

Contact Information: Dr. C. Gilbert chenee.gilbert@cobbk12.org 770-578-2740 x.1335

*Please note that this syllabus is subject to change.

I have read and understand Dr. C. Gilbert’s syllabus.

Student signature:__________________________ Parent signature:______________________________

Printed Student Name:_______________________ Printed Parent Name:_________________________