2009-2010         Grade 8 English Language Arts      Mrs. Driscoll    

Overview: The English Language Arts Curriculum engages students in a range of experiences and interactions with a variety of texts designed to help them develop increasing control over language processes, use and respond to language effectively and purposefully, and understand why language and literacy are so central to their lives.   (ELA 7-9 Curriculum Guide) 

Supplies: Binder with looseleaf (ELA section), pen, pencil, highlighter. Duotangs for reading and writing journals will be provided. 

General Curriculum Outcomes : In Nova Scotia, the general curriculum outcomes (GCOs)  for junior high Social Studies are organized into three strands. 

Speaking and Listening-

Students will be expected to

-          Speak and listen to explore, extend, clarify and reflect on their thoughts, ideas, feelings and experiences

-          Communicate information and ideas effectively and clearly and to respond personally and critically

-          Interact with sensitivity and respect, considering the situation, audience and purpose.

Reading and Viewing-

Students will be expected to

-          Select, read, and view with understanding as range of literature, information, media, and visual texts

-          Interpret, select, and combine information using a variety of strategies, resources, and technologies

-          Respond critically to a range of texts, applying their understanding of language, form and genre.

Writing and Representing-

Students will be expected to

-          Use writing and other forms of representation to explore, clarify, and reflect on their thoughts, feelings, experiences, and learning; and to use their imaginations

-          Create texts collaboratively and independently, using a variety of forms for a range of audiences and purposes

-          Use a range of strategies to develop effective writing and other ways of representing to enhance their clarity, precision and effectiveness 

A detailed curriculum document can be found on the NS Department of Education’s website www.ednet.ns.ca                

Content and Components – Grade 8

In our Grade 8 ELA class, these outcomes will be met in a variety of ways including but not limited to:

Reading and writing a variety of  fiction, and non-fiction (poetry, plays, short stories, essays)

Independent and class novel studies

Editing one’s own work and the work of others

Public Speaking

Literature Circles

Journal writing and responding

Drama and Visual Art

Technology, Media and Journalism

Vocabulary, Spelling and Punctuation

Grammar and Usage

Research, Library and internet use

Listening and discussions

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http://www.handwritingforkids.com/handwrite/cursive/animation/