5th Grade Language Arts 2013-2014 Room C221

Angela MurphyReading Specialist

amurphy@umasd.org610-205-8948

Wonders Reading Program

Designed specifically for the Common Core State Standards for Reading/Language Arts. The program provides unmatched support for:

Building a strong reading foundationAccessing complex textFinding and using text evidenceEngaging in collaborative conversationsWriting to sources

Wonders Reading Program

Reading/Writing WorkshopCommon Core LessonsShort reads to teach/model close readingGuided collaborative practice of key skills

Literature AnthologyProvides application of close readingBuilds reading staminaConnects reading and writing

Leveled ReadersDifferentiate to Accelerate & RemediateBuilt in Acceleration Plan50% Literary Text/50% Informational Text

Connect Reading & Writing

Writing Traits

o Trait instruction to ensure successful writers

o Writing practice every day

o Writing and grammar integrated

Grammar and Spelling

o Develop mastery of grammar and language convention

o Weekly instruction

o Integrated into writing instruction

More on Writing…Types of Writing:

NarrativeInformativePersuasive/Opinion

Domains of Writing (Traits):FocusContentOrganizationStyle Conventions

One published piece a marking periodDistrict writing formative assessments

Language Arts ExpectationsStudents should come prepared with:

Language Arts binder and LA folderHomeworkNovel/SSR bookPencils

Students should come to class ready to listen, participate, show respect to others, and to try their best.

LA Class ScheduleDo Now & SSR reading/activityHomework check & reviewEssential QuestionLearning Objective/GoalsLesson of the DayClosure

Language Arts HomeworkHomework Packet

One grammar & one spelling page each nightStudy weekly spelling & vocabulary words

Reading Log…25 Book Challenge20 minutes of independent reading at least four times per week…fill in log and return to school…25 Book Challenge

Always refer to the Agenda Book for assignment modifications

Language Arts Grading Policy

Grade calculations are based on the following:

Unit Assessments - 20%Unit TestsWriting Assignments/Book Reports

Weekly Assessments – 60%Quizzes: Spelling/GrammarTests: Vocabulary/Reading

Informal Assessments – 20%HomeworkClassworkReading Log

ExpectationsArrive on Time. Be Prepared.Actively Listen. Be Respectful.Maintain Self-Control.Have a Good Attitude.

Interims & Report Cards Interims are sent home half-way through

marking period

You can view your child’s grade through the parent portal…sign up in the Administration Building

Parents will be contacted when necessary

Bathroom Policyo Students will be given 4 passes to use

the bathroom over the course of one month. When using their pass, they must sign out in log book, leave quietly and return to class promptly when done.If a student has a medical condition which requires them to use the bathroom more often, please contact me privately.

How Can You Help?Check agenda book and homework nightly.Encourage your child to read. Make sure to sign the student reading log and check over homework.Help your child with time management for project completion.Help your child stay organized. Clean out folders and book bag on a daily basis.Make sure that your child has several sharpened pencils everyday for school.