8^th Grade Reading Syllabus and Classroom Information

United Middle School

Mrs. E. Villarreal

Dear Parents / Guardians,

                It is with great pleasure that we welcome your child to 8^th grade Reading.  The Reading class is designed to prepare students for the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) in reading for 8^th grade as well as for future academic success.  This course consists of analytical comprehension skills and effective writing opportunities through engaging student-centered activities and the standards-based curriculum.  In-depth study of challenging literary selections and writing of expository, literary, and persuasive pieces will be the focus.  Students will produce short essays, literary analysis, short answer response questions and various projects.  Outside readings of specified novels for this course are a requirement.  We are looking forward to a very exciting and rewarding school year.

                To continue to foster the love of reading, and develop lifelong reading skills, your child will be exposed to different novels, different genres, projects both in the classroom, at home, and other reading material.  In order to use time wisely, your child needs to come prepared with homework and supplies.  So that you as a parent are informed, please check the school web site, http://www.edlinesites.net/pages/United_Middle_School click on “Campus Info”, “Directory” and search for teacher name.  Information about notes, upcoming tests, projects, homework, etc. will be posted.  In addition, you can be informed on the latest course activities by joining remind.com.  Please see attached for instructions on how to receive our messages.

As you know, 8^th grade is the year your child will take Reading STAAR for promotion to the 9^th grade.  To help ensure your child’s success on the test, some children will be invited to afterschool tutorials.  There will be continued monitoring of your child’s progress using district assessments and benchmarks.

                We have the highest expectations and respect for all of our students.  Therefore, students are expected to perform at their highest level and make a serious commitment to learning.  With your support we can make a difference in your child’s education.  Please do not hesitate to call or email us if you should have any questions.  We are excited about having your child in our classrooms and will, in combination with your efforts, give your child the finest education we can offer.

                Supplies for personal use:                                 Supplies to turn into Reading Teacher:

                Pencils                                                                  1 Tissue box or 1 Clorox Wipes

                Blue, black, and red pens                                   1 composition notebook (100 pages)

   Highlighters                                                          1 pocket folder with brads

  Glue sticks                                                             Theme paper

  Markers/Color Pencils

Thank you for your support!

Ms. S. Duncan

Mrs. C.J. Aranda

Mrs. E. Villarreal

Planning   9:00-10:00 am

Email:         evillarreal2@uisd.net