Welcome to ELL/ELA with Ms. K.
English Language Learning Syllabus
Ell students come to Tappan at all WIDA language levels - from level 1 Entering, to level 5 Bridging (nearly proficient. Throughout the year we work on the 4 language skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking at those different levels.
Beginners first get the language of school and daily life so they can acclimate to their new environment. Very soon though, they join students at the other levels who are working to gain academic language and the content area language of Language Arts.
They are learning how to "talk to the text" to expand and improve their reading skills, and are writing persuasive essays, personal narratives, short research papers and cause-effect paragraphs. So their eventual transition to a Language Arts class is smooth and successful.
Meet Barb K.
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B.A., Journalism, University of Michigan
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M.A., Education, University of Michigan
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Highly Qualified: K-8, Language Arts, ELL
Thirteen years ago, after a successful career as a writer, I decided to take my literacy skills in a new direction as a teacher. I completed the ELMAC program at the University of Michigan in 2004 and have worked in the Ann Arbor district since then -- the last 11 years at Tappan as ELL teacher. This year I'm splitting my time teaching both English Language Learning and English Language Arts. I also coach 6-7-8 cross country and 7-8 girls track.
English Language Arts Syllabus
The 7th grade ELA curriculum is based on state Common Core Standards and AAPS Student Learning Objectives (SLO's). Throughout the year in reading students work on basic to advanced comprehension skills and study the genres of mystery, myths, poetry, plays and memoirs.
In writing, students respond to text providing evidence and reasoning for their claims. They also compose a persuasive essay, personal narrative, several cause-effect papers, a short research paper and have an opportunity to study and write poems and stories.