Swain's Class Frequently Asked Questions! (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions:
This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.
1. What do 8th graders learn in Language Arts class?
8th graders are given an overview of varying types of writing, such as blogs, poetry, short stories, newspaper-oriented work, journals, and research papers. This year, we will also have a focus on high-school preparatory vocaubulary through the usage of 1100 Words You Need To Know. Additionally, we will focus on the mechanics of writing, such as punctuation, grammar skills, and editing. Finally, the expository essay is the main focus of the TCAP testing this year, so students will be come fluent in this process of writing. This will be invaluable, as it will help with research papers later on.
2. I need to speak with you. How can you be contacted?
Email me or please feel free to call Algood Middle at 931.537.6141 I am eager to get to know the families of my students, so let me know how I can help!
3. What textbooks do we use?
We will be using the basal grammar workbook adopted by the county for our textbook. Rather than a formal grammar textbook, we will be learning interactively through writing and addressing various components of writing that mirrors the book. Basically, as we write, we learn!
4. I HATE writing! It's boring!
Don't worry, young grasshopper! I will do everything in my power to help you enjoy the process of writing. I believe that writing for school should be oriented toward careers, and I will use the National Writing Project's model of allowing students to seek the publishing of their own work.
5. Who are If and When?
If and When are our class guinea pigs. They enjoy veggies,
pellet food, and standing on their pink igloo. They chirp when they are happy and will purr for
treats. They are masters of working the system. They enjoy vocabulary and will likely beat you at
Scrabble.
6. What is your teaching philosophy?
The short and sweet answer is this: I believe we need to bring passion for writing back to school.
Students don't want to write more biring papers about trees and snowflakes. We need to allow
students to have a real voice in today's world. I seek to do this by giving students a chance to
learn about careers in writing while teaching them how actual professional writers of all types make
their magic. If I can keep it interesting for students, students will learn that writing doesn't have to
be dreaded.
7. What about character building?
I am a stickler for this. My students will adapt polite behaviors into their
daily lives. Please assist me with this at home. I have a policy of respect
for individuals, especially those in authority and require behavior to comply
with this. (for example, "yes, Ma'am" as a proper response,
etc.) Over time, good etiquette becomes second nature. I am kind, but will not put up with rudeness.
8. Are you a mean teacher?
I am definitely not a mean teacher, but I am definitely someone who believes that respect is
important. In class, I never put up with interrupting me or other students, derogatory talk of others
or groups, and lack of being on task. I love to have fun, joke around, and tell stories in class, but I
never allow disrespect in my classroom. Demerits are given for students who choose to be this way.
9. My child has a WHAT in your class?
Everyone needs to learn the importance of responsibility. It will be just fine ...as long as your child
does their work. Please double check the homework calendar for missed assignments. Did your
student study for their vocabulary tests? Turn in work on time? The main thing is, 8th graders are
growing up and getting ready for high school. Sadly, we have to let them trip and fall if they forget
their work or make a poor grade on a test from time to time. This is how they learn to be responsible.
As a parent, please help them to look over their assignments and ask about what homework they
have. They really can bring up thier grades easily with my grading system, so please do not panic
about one low grade every one and awhile. Keep in mind that midterms only have a few grades, so
one low grade will look much more severe.
How can you help? Check the planner of your students. Also, check the
AMS website at www.algoodredskins.com for each teacher - homework is usually posted.
10. I have access to donations like computers, printers, and items for your writing room.
EXCELLENT. Thank you for wanting to help us! We are seeking used computers to type with and the
like, so please email me if you are able to make a donation to our class. Thank you!!
11. I want to help out in the classroom or at the school!
Fabulous!! Please send me some email: sswain@k12tn.net or give me a call at
the school to schedule a time for us to talk about what suit your interests!
We always love volunteers! Please consider joining the AMS PTO! They are WONDERFUL!
12. I want to donate something else, like guinea pig food, paper, markers, etc.
THANK YOU! We ALWAYS need guinea pig food & litter for If and When,
tissues, Clorox Wipes, and various stuff as needed throughout the year. Please
email me at sswain@k12tn.net or call 931 537.6141 and we can set something up.
13. Hey, Ms. Swain! Can I take the guinea pigs home on the weekend?
I allow the piggies to go home during fall, Thanksgiving, winter, & spring breaks. If you are
interesting in caring for the class pets, please bring a note to me from your family. I do not allow the
piggies to go home with families that have dogs or other predatory pets. Ilove pups, but the piggies
get scared easily! It would be terrible for something to happen to them!
