As the 8th grade teacher one of the subjects I teach to the 8th grade is Health. In Health we will discuss how to lead a healthy life: mentally, physically, and spiritually. As part of the first unit the students will need to choose one aspect of their life that they will work on improving. The students will make a plan with realistic and obtainable goals and set target dates.
Since I am starting a new aspect of my life, teaching the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, it is only fair that I set some goals for myself. Here are some of the goals that I have set for myself and my students:
In Literature, the 7th and 8th grade students will read at least four novels this year with varying themes that compliment what they are learning in other subjects. We will also be reading and analyzing some short stories and poems. In addition students will be required to be reading for pleasure and keeping a log of their books. My goal is to expose the students to a variety of genres and to develop in them a better understanding of what they are reading.
In English, the 7th and 8th grade students will be learning new vocabulary words from our ongoing series. Part of learning these words will be using them in writing assignments. Both grades will also be working on grammar. It is my belief that while technology has made some wonderful improvements to our world, many people are left unable to write complete sentences much less paragraphs. We will hit the basic parts of speech hard and do a lot of the dreaded sentence diagramming. Finally it is my goal to assign at least one major writing assignment per quarter. Students will be doing essays, research papers, and letter writing using different resources including technology.
I will also be teaching Religion to the 8th grade. Most of my prior teaching experience is in religious education, and I absolutely love to discuss my faith. It is my goal to make all of my students comfortable discussing what they believe and why to whomever they may encounter.
Finally, I have the privilege of teaching Science to the 6th grade. My goal is to do more hands on activities keeping in line with our overall school goal of making Science a priority.
My goal is also to be available when needed. So parents, please let me know when you have questions or concerns.
Mrs. Zeller
