Course Syllabus

Purpose of this syllabus: This syllabus provides an overview of the course goals, expectations, materials, and assessment criteria.

Course Title: 6th Grade Language Arts

Teacher:  Erica Antonio

Contact Information:  Inbox in canvas, 425-837-6737, antonioe@issaquah.wednet.edu

Course Description: ISD Course Guide 2024-2025

Course Goals:  Students will explore diverse literary genres by exploring theme and character analysis. Critical thinking and persuasive skills are strengthened. The course provides a framework for understanding narrative structures across various texts and will read the novel, Freak the Mighty. There is an emphasis on empowering students to be effective communicators and analytical thinkers. Through a combination of whole-class instruction and small group workshop experiences, students will sharpen their language arts skills and strengthen self-expression.

Course Outline by Semester or Trimester:  

Trimester 1 Trimester 2 Trimester 3
Reader's Workshop Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick Character Study Hero's Journey
Writer's Workshop Personal Narratives Feature Article/Informative Writing Argumentative Essay

Required Course Materials and Supplies

  • Technology including access to Canvas  
  • Textbooks 
  • Supplies 

Grading Policies

Grade Percentages: 

Letter Grade    Range

A                      93-100

A-                    90-92.99

B+                   87-89.99

B                      83-86.99

B-                     80-82.99

C+                    77-79.99

C                      73-76.99

C-                     70-72.99

D+                    67-69.99

D                      60-66.99

F                       0 -59.99

S,U,P - Override Grades

50% Grading Rule: Missing work will receive 50% in the gradebook. Process and culminating work will be scored according to standards to show understanding of concepts. 

Assessment Criteria 

Grading categories and types of work: 

Assignments: daily work, homework, writer-reader notebooks

Assessments: tests, quizzes, projects, essays

Category weights: 

Assignments: 40%

Assessments: 60%

Recovery Plans:

Revisions and retakes: These are great ways to show growth and require thought and effort!

Assignments: You will have one revision for assignments that have been submitted on time. There will be no revisions for late assignments or learning checks (progress checks at a given point in time).

Assessments: For revisions of final projects, you have two weeks after grades are posted to complete the revision/retake process.

1. All assignments must be turned in for the unit (turned in after deadline receives no credit)

2. Complete the revision/reflection process to be eligible. 

*Some assessments may not have revisions if assessed in a group environment (group discussions, presentations, etc.)

Homework type/purpose/volume/frequency

Homework is not assigned regularly. However, students may need to complete assignments at home if they were not finished during class time. It is important for students to manage their time effectively and complete any unfinished classwork at home when necessary. Additionally, students are expected to read regularly, both in and out of school. This includes reading for class assignments as well as reading for enjoyment. Regular reading will help improve comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills.

Classroom Values and Expectations

Falcon Four:

We are KIND

Listen to others

Raise hand

We are SAFE

Keep body and objects to self

Properly store your belongings

We are ENGAGED 

Cell phones of and away

Do your best work

Advocate for yourself

Actively participate in lessons/activities 

We are MINDFUL 

Consider the needs and feelings of others

Feedback/discussions are on topic and appropriate 

Reflect on learning, words, and actions 

 

Academic Integrity: Please refer to the ISD student handbook for the districtwide academic integrity policy. 

Student Conduct - Cougar Mountain Middle School (isd411.org)