Welcome to Mrs. Kapigian's Class

Language Arts

Language Arts covers reading comprehension, writing, grammar, spelling, vocabulary and research techniques.  The flow of the class will depend on what we are currently studying (i.e. poetry, expository writing, research, etc.). However, there are a few constants throughout the year!

Vocabulary/Spelling: Each week the kids should get between 10-15 words and/or root words. On Friday, they will take a test on these words.  We will NOT do vocab on 4 day weeks.  Spelling has been a struggle that has been noticed as teachers, so middle school is going to be implementing weekly spelling words (10-15) and tests.  I will be giving these tests to the students on Friday, even on 4 day weeks. 

Writing: Writing has been a struggle for many students, so as a school we are switching to Step Up to Writing to make sure all students have a consistent baseline for their writing abilities.

Reading: Outside of school, students should be reading for about 1 hour!  This will either be a book of their choice, a core-lit book or a book club book!

Social Studies

Since every student learns differently, they will be learning social studies through a variety of techniques!

Teacher Driven: This consists of lectures and powerpoints!  During this, they will focus on Cornell Style Notes!  All slides will be posted to their Google Classroom after notes are taken in class!

Simulations: This is a very different type of learning, most likely different from what they have done before.  They learn how to work with one another in constructing their own knowledge while competing against different towns of the ancient world.  Do know that group work cannot affect their overall grade.

Traditional Book Unit: Read, discussion, mini-lectures and centerwork.

6th Period - Sundale Leadership

Description/Objective: This class is designed to provide students with the knowledge of how to take on a leadership role on their campus and with their peers.  Students will be responsible for working independently in committees to complete tasks.  They will be responsible for planning and leading many of our student body events, planning community services events, money management, public speaking, etc.  They will learn how to recognize what is hindering the progress of their committee and the steps of problem solving in order to complete the project.  Students will participate in daily assignments that will enhance their understanding of teamwork and how to successfully work within a group. 

Policies/Rules: Students are expected to be respectful of other group members, be on task and complete their assignments. Students are expected to come to class prepared for their committee work for that day. Students will check in on progress of committee each week during the Leadership Business Meeting. Students must be able to work independent of teacher direction with a committee and see the committee through to the end. Students must be able to remain focused on their tasks while reaching out for assistance where needed.

Grading: Grading for this class will be based on completion of projects/activities and participation. Grading Scale:  A (90-100%),  B (80-89%),  C (70-79%),  D (60-69%),  F (below 60%)

7th Period - Beginning Careers

Description/Objective: This class is designed to provide students with the knowledge to begin to recognize their individual learning/personality styles and how to adjust when lessons are taught in a different way or when working within a group.  In addition they will begin to explore possible colleges and career fields and expand their knowledge of careers that are available through interest surveys, research, and guest speakers.  Students will participate in daily assignments that will enhance their understanding of teamwork and how to successfully work within a group. 

Policies/Rules: Students are expected to come to class prepared.  All students are expected to bring a pen/pencil each day to class and be ready to work. Students are expected to complete and turn in assignments on time. Students are expected to be respectful of other group members, be on task and complete their assignments. Students are expected to be on time to class.  All students receiving a tardy will be placed in break detention the following day. 

Grading: Grading for this class will be based on completion of projects/activities and participation. Grading Scale:  A (90-100%),  B (80-89%),  C (70-79%),  D (60-69%),  F (below 60%)

Resources: Web: Research Career Web:  COS, FSU, UC Merced – look at requirements, cost, degrees awarded

SCICON

The Clemmie Gill School of Science and Conservation (SCICON) is the outdoor school of science and conservation operated by the Tulare County Office of Education. It is located on 1,100 acres above Springville. Last year, the school was visited by over 20,000 fifth- and sixth-grade students for a one-day or week-long experience in outdoor education, natural science, and conservation. Since 1958, SCICON has been a product of school and community partnerships. Community support has enabled this state-of-the-art environmental education school to become a model for similar programs throughout the country. SCICON is host to its own natural history museum, raptor center, planetarium and observatory, and tree nursery.