Literature and Composition 5/6 (Second Semester)

Course Description

This is the second semester of a year-long course in progress. Students are welcome to join the second semester without having completed the first semester. In this class, we will explore several novels while being on the lookout for literary devices, plot structure, and more! Students will practice their skills in reading comprehension, grammar, writing, vocabulary, listening, speaking, and critical thinking. Join us as we delve into some wonderfully fun books!

In the second semester, we will read Sign of the Beaver and Island of the Blue Dolphins. We will be reviewing all literary elements and talking about new ones each time we read a new book. For grammar, we will continue with our units in IEW US History, reviewing all concepts from the first semester as well as adding commas, conjunctions, prepositional phrases, and usage.

Course Structure

This semester will consist of 2 novels and grammar instruction. Reading of the novels will be done outside of class time. Class time will be used for analyzing and discussing what was read, collaborative work with other students, and direct instruction on grammar, literary elements, etc.

Who should enroll?

Any student in grades 5–6 are welcome to join us!

Technology Requirements

• High speed, broadband Internet
• Headset and microphone (for live sessions)
• Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures
• Google Account is highly recommended.

Evaluation and Feedback

Feedback on each assignment is important for growth and development for both reading and writing. Assignments will be graded and feedback will be provided. If there is something that seems to be a consistent struggle for the student, we will work together to find a time to meet outside of class and work on it. My goal is to help each student grow. Each child is different and has a different starting point so challenging them will look different from student to student, but with consistent communication and an open door, my goal is to make each student feel confident and comfortable all while developing a love and understanding of reading and writing.

Communication is integral in this type of learning environment. I encourage all students/parents to reach out via Canvas any time they have a question or concern. I usually reply within 24 hours. Weekends I usually don’t check email so it may be Monday before I can get back with you. I am here to help you, so please reach out with any questions. We are a team!

I also have an extra hour each week to help students with any homework due that week. We will also work on any skills they are not grasping and any questions they have. Think of it as a small group homework help time. To participate in this class, your student needs to register separately for Language Arts Lab 5/6.

Required Texts

The following books can be acquired through the links below.

• • Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare, ISBN-13: 978-0547577111 (https://www.amazon.com/Sign-Beaver-Elizabeth-George-Speare/dp/0547577117/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2A9SP48PNGJ2G&keywords=sign+of+the+beaver+book&qid=1686878038&sprefix=sign+of+the+%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-1)
  • Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell, ISBN 13: 978-0547328614 (https://www.amazon.com/Island-Blue-Dolphins-Scott-ODell/dp/0547328613/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1SL9LCJPYJRV8&keywords=island+of+the+blue+dolphins&qid=1686880867&sprefix=island%2Caps%2C271&sr=8-1)
  • Fix it Grammar! Level 3 Robin Hood, ISBN: 978-1-62341-361-3 (https://iew.com/shop/products/fix-it%E2%84%A2-grammar-level-3-robin-hood-student-book)

The following supplies will be needed for this course:

• • 2 inch three ring binder
  • dividers (one set)
  • notebook paper
  • notecards
  • spiral or composition notebook
  • highlighters
  • pens, pencils, erasers