Sra. Westonjweston@chatham-nj.org

Ext. 3879

Course OverviewIn Spanish 8 Conversational we work on

communicating in Spanish through speaking, listening, reading and writing

We will learn about the culture of Spanish-speaking countries and communicate with authentic materials when possible

We do not use a textbook

Classroom RulesStudents must…

Come to class on time and prepared Students should begin working on the DO NOW

when class starts Students should bring their binders, agendas and a

writing utensil with themRespect

Respect each other, the teacher and the classroomSpeak Spanish to the best of their abilityBe responsible for all absences and make-up

work

Grading PolicyTests and projects (75-100 points)Quizzes (20-35 points)Classwork and labsHomework (1-10 points)

Late homework will receive half creditParticipation (50-75 points/ marking period)

All marking period grades are based on the total number of points achieved out of the total number of points available

Genesis and Parent PortalI will try to keep grades updated on a weekly

basis

I will not enter grades until I have given the students their grades first

Homework policyAll homework is due the day after it is

assigned unless otherwise statedHomework assignments are posted each day

on the board and on my class calendar on my website

Students may turn in homework late for half credit

All quizzes will be announced 3-5 days in advance

All tests will be announce 1 week in advance

Extra HelpStudents may come for extra help before or

after school to room 214. Students should check with me if they would like to come before (they need a pass) or after school.

If students do not have a pass to come in early, please email me by 8 pm

WebsiteMy website is updated frequently with

important materials. All current files (vocab lists, notes, etc.) can be found under Español 8

The calendar portion of my website is updated frequentlyThis has information about homework, tests,

projects and quizzesStudents should check this regularly to make

sure they are up to datehttp://www.chatham-nj.org//Domain/309

Remind 101This is a way for students to receive emails or

text messages from me. They will not see my phone number and I do not know theirs.

I will send reminders before quizzes, tests and projects are due

In 8th grade, we will…Review basic phrases (introductions, basic

biographical information, weather, date, time, verbs)

Talk about preparations for holidays and partiesDiscuss various holidays in the Spanish-speaking

world and how they are celebratedDiscuss gifts given to peopleTalk about daily routineTalk about foods for breakfast, lunch and dinnerDiscuss typical restaurant phrases and

conversationsTalk about Spanish and Latin American artists

A typical class in 8th grade SpanishIn a typical class…

We start with the DO NOW

We review homework and information learned the previous day

We will review new information with a mini-lesson of about 10 minutes

We will complete 2-3 practice activities to review the information learned today

We will complete one closure activity that sums up everything

Tips for SuccessStudents should do the following

Always write down assignments in their agendas

Speak and use Spanish to the best of their abilities

Make flash cards and begin practicing new vocabulary right away

Ask questions and seek extra help if necessary

Be organized: keep binder just for Spanish class with the correct sections.

Take risks- try to use Spanish outside the classroom if possible

A little humor…