The following is a list of some of the devices and concepts that we will be focusing on:

CLOSE READING
∞ Finding patterns in a text through annotation
∞Analysis, including, for example, the author’s development of theme or tone through imagery, diction, syntax, choice of details, point of view, author’s use of figures of speech and sound devices
∞Noticing language choices: Students understand how writers and speakers use specific words and sentences to move the thoughts, emotions, and actions of readers and listeners.

WRITING
Students will be able to:
∞ Write introductions that attack an issue in a thoughtful manner
∞ Write well-developed and solid paragraphs
∞ Use facts, quotations, and paraphrases as support for a stated position
∞ Write thesis statements powerful enough to dictate the direction of the paper
∞ Analyze, not simply summarize
∞ Develop a voice
∞ Write grammatically correct sentences 

I am a secondary (grades 5-12) English teacher at a public school (7 years) with a masters of arts (MAE) in English Education. I have I also have certifications in special education and gifted education. I am IEW, Indiana Writing Project, and Harkness Method trained and certified.

In my classes, I work with all levels of students (IEP students, general education, and gifted/AP students). My goal as a teacher is to foster critical thinking and communication skills in order to help your child achieve their goals and become more proficient readers, writers, and critical thinkers. More than that, I encourage students to fall in love with learning. My classes cater to all learning types and students are expected to participate in order to get the most out of the lesson. 

Homework Offered
Homework will always be given after the first two classes of the week. Most of the homework will be reading. Students will have two weeks in which we read an entire book in the week. Most students can expect to have 1-2 hours of outside reading per week and 30-1 hour of writing outside of class. The class alternates between reading heaving and writing heavy classes.
2 - 4 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
informal assessments, graded essays, vocab quizzes, book tests
Grades Offered
A progress report/grades are offered upon parent request

The books read are "Freak the Mighty" by Rodman Philback and Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

I do provide a pdf of each.