September 8, 2008
Dear Parents,
I am pleased to have a second year as your child’s Language Arts and Social Studies teacher.
These first few days have been so enjoyable - catching up on summer
happenings and reacquainting ourselves with one another.
Please take a look at the curriculum overview which your child is bringing home for your
signature. It lays out the scope of our studies this year.
Like last year, an essential part of the 8th grade curriculum is the reading program. I expect
students to read at home daily. To be specific, thirty minutes a day of reading a novel is required.
You’ll soon receive your child’s first home reading record for your signature. Reading magazines and
the newspaper is a great idea, yet for the home reading record students must read novels only. Since
eighth grade is a benchmark year the state will assess each student’s reading skills in the spring.
New high school graduation requirements make this daily reading even more important.
Another high priority in my class is giving your child numerous opportunities to
develop into a confident, capable writer. As we go along you’ll see various writing
assignments. Please feel free to assist your student by reminding them to read their
writing out loud and by identifying sentences which need more attention. Have them
be the one to locate any errors.
We’re starting the year off with an exploration of personal goals and attitudes. In the next few
weeks students will be setting goals which reinforce the importance of education. Students need to
begin preparing a clear vision of their future and to recognize that daily choices affect their ability to
achieve their dreams.
Please keep in mind that I am always available to answer questions or to discuss
concerns. I look forward to seeing you at Kennedy’s Curriculum Night on Tuesday,
September 23rd.
Kind regards,
Renee Travis
Language Arts/ Social Studies
687-3241
e-mail: travis@4j.lane.edu
