6th, 7th and 8th Grade Reading

Teacher:  Mrs. Heather Derby             Phone number: (215) 862-0608 ext. 1921
Email:  hderby@nhsd.org

Wiki Space

Course Description: 

The objective of the reading class is to provide direct instruction on the process of reading.  This instruction involves modeling the thinking process that should occur during active reading including making connections, making predictions, asking questions, and visualizing written text. Direct instruction will be delivered focusing on how to transfer this information gleaned from the text during the reading process into written work and projects.  The students will learn to process the information from text, critically think and reason to make decisions, and draw conclusions when responding to higher level thinking prompts.  Through the use of literature, students will research to gain valuable knowledge to aid in understanding what they read.  They will create projects to demonstrate their knowledge and will discuss their thoughts, formulated opinions and conclusions with their peers to gain insight into the thought processes of those around them.  

Materials/Resources: 

Multiple novels- The students will be given many to choose from and will work in pairs or groups to complete the novels.
Textbooks- The students will bring their content area textbooks to work with so that the strategies learned can be applied within their own curriculum.
Newspapers
Approved internet sites- specific to research
Additional resources will be used to supplement the novels for the purpose of reading comprehension and critical thinking.  The students will utilize my NHSReading Wiki to discuss books, complete assignments and participate in other literacy related activities.  Also, I will work with the grade level teams to coordinate performance expectations on papers, tests, and projects to reinforce the acquisition of grade level skills.

Grades: 

Grades are based on the following criteria:
-Tests
-Projects
-Quizzes
-Class work
-Participation
-Homework
 
Homework:

Students will complete all reading within the classroom.  Students will be expected to utilize the strategies that we learn throughout the year to complete homework in their other classes.  There will be written assignments sporadically throughout the year.