DEBORAH NEIL

The Anchorage School District’s theme for 8th grade Language Arts is Finding My Place in the World. During our studies you will answer the following essential questions:

     What do I care about?               Who am I?
     Why are stories important?          Where do I fit into the world?
     What’s my role in the community?      What are my rights and responsibilities?
     How can I effect change?           What does my future look like?     
     What is the relationship between fiction and truth?

We will read and write in many genres, incorporating grammar and word study as we consider these questions.

Supplies: Composition, 3 ring binder, pencils, red pen

Publishing: All students will publish their work in a variety of ways throughout the school year, including publishing for global distribution. Portfolios will be created and maintained by each student.

Extra Help: I am available for help as needed, possible times include before and after school and during lunch. Please sign up with me before coming in. If you are having difficulty, please ask me before you get too far behind.

Book Orders: Scholastic offers great deals on favorite books. Orders will be sent in once per quarter. Ordering is optional and helps our class earn free books. Checks should be made out to Scholastic (not Mrs. Neil).

Grading: Grades will be posted weekly online. If there is any discrepancy, please come to me immediately so we can address the problem. Do not wait until report cards come out to ask questions! I use the standard grading scale:

90% and above = A
80% - 89% = B          60% - 69% = D
70% - 79% = C          59% and below = F