Teacher's Name: Mrs. Denise Exelby
Grade/Subject: Grade 7 Homeroom/English Language Arts 7, 8; Literature 7, Religion 7
Contact: dexelby@stjohnskenmore.com (email) or (716) 877-6401 (telephone)
English 7 and 8
Both grades are continuing to improve their writing skills with various writing assignments. Seventh graders, in particular, are required to write in their journals twice a week. Students are writing on a variety of topics, including those that they have chosen on their own.
It's almost that time of year where we will begin preliminary work on the research paper. This is an intensive project that we will be working on for a period of several months. More information will follow.
Literature 7
We have finished our first novel study of the year and are now beginning our unit on short stories. We are learning the elements of the short story and techniques to put into practice when reading this literary genre. These techniques will help the students in their comprehension and enjoyment of the short story.
All students are expected to continue to do two (2) book reports per trimester. Each book read must be of a different genre, and due dates for the book reports have been given to the students. As always, students are encouraged to read, read, and read some more!
Calling All Spellers!
We are once again participating in the Buffalo News Spelling Bee. All sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students are welcome to try out. Preliminary contests will take place in early January, and our champion speller will take a written exam in early February. I look forward to seeing as many students as possible participate in this exciting event.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of my students for their wonderful Christmas gifts. A special thank-you to the parents as well! May God continue to bless all of you.
