- Can I write in pencil?
- Can I turn in late homework?
- Why do I need Post-It Flags?
- What is the classroom motto?
- What happens if I forget to put my name on my work?
- Why do I need a flashdrive? (also known as jumpdrive, pendrive, etc.)
- What do I do when I first get to class?
- How can I get an A in Language Arts?
- Why do I need sheet protectors?
- Why do my parents have to sign my reading logs?
- How do I get help if I need it?
- If I have suggestions for this website, how do I let you know about them?
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Can I write in pencil?
No. I would like you to write everything in black or blue ink or typed. It
is easier on the eyes and your writing will be neater. In your supply list, I
have requested that you have White Out Tape - this is an important item in
your supply list because you will be able to white out your mistakes. Tape is
much better than liquid because it can instantly be written on.
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Can I turn in late homework?
No. This is a policy that is across the grade level. There will be no late
homework accepted. The only exception to this rule is in the case of absence
due to illness. You will be allowed as many days absent to turn in your work.
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Why do I need Post-It Flags?
These are used to keep your place in the novels we will be reading. We also
use them to flag figurative language or different types of imagery as we are
reading. These flags are handy for any of your books in school, including
your Reminder Binder.
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What is the classroom motto?
Respect. In the first week of school we will do a "respect rap." If we
respect ourselves, one another and our environment, we will have an absolutely
awesome school year.
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What happens if I forget to put my name on my work?
Unfortunately, that homework will go into the trash and you will not get
credit. It is impossible with over 120 students for teachers to try to
remember someone's handwriting to figure out who the work belongs to. It is
up to you to take pride in your work and be sure to claim it as your own by
putting your name at the top of the page with the correct heading.
Quote Part #1 (of 4): “Don't wait until everything is just right. It will
never be perfect. ... " (Find the remaining three parts to complete the quote.)
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Why do I need a flashdrive? (also known as jumpdrive, pendrive, etc.)
Whenever we write in class or at home, we will be transporting the data to and
from school on the
flashdrive. It is imperative that you have one and keep it in a safe place.
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What do I do when I first get to class?
When you enter the Language Arts classroom, you should immediately take out
your Reminder Binder. The left hand corner of the white board is reserved for
homework only. You will always find your homework written there - if there is
no homework, you will find the words: "No Homework." Just to the right of
the Homework is the Agenda for the Day - this will give you an idea of what
book(s) or pages to take out to be prepared. The middle white board is
reserved for Warm-Up activities. After you have completed writing your
homework in your reminder binder and glanced at the Agenda, you can begin the
Warm-Up activity.
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How can I get an A in Language Arts?
Getting an "A" in Language Arts is not as difficult as you may have imagined.
If you complete all your homework, do the outside reading and reporting (on
the three forms discussed in class), actively read and respond to the material
assigned, participate in class discussions - you are well on your way to an A.
I have had students who did poorly on tests because of test anxiety, but
still ended up with an "A" because they were diligent with their homework,
reading logs and writing assignments.
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Why do I need sheet protectors?
Sheet protectors are to save the important papers I hand out. Not only will
these help you throughout your 8th grade year, they can be referred to in high
school. I have had many students who come back to visit tell me that they
used that "Essay format" handout, or the "Literary Terms" handout, among the
many other useful handouts you will receive throughout the year. They are
for your use and the sheet protectors will keep them safe.
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Why do my parents have to sign my reading logs?
Parent signatures are required because it strengthens the communication
between home and school. Your parent(s) want to be involved in your education
and they enjoy being aware of what you are doing. The documenting of books
and pages on your reading logs are on the "honor system" and your parents'
signature ensures that they are aware of your reading.
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How do I get help if I need it?
I am available every morning before school, usually around 7:30 a.m. I am
also usually available after school on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. (On
Mondays and Wednesdays, I need to leave right after school to take my daughter
to soccer practice.) I am also available by telephone 310-937-5888 x 226 or
by email - cbarrow@hbcsd.org. Feel free to see me after class to set
something up or just stop by in the morning before school. I'm here to help!
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If I have suggestions for this website, how do I let you know about them?
You can email any and all suggestions to me - I will be thrilled to make this
website as useful and user-friendly as possible. You can also tell me in
person, but it is always best to write your ideas down, so they don't get
forgotten. I value and welcome all suggestions!