I hope you all are well and enjoying the extended time with family as much as possible. I'm looking forward to taking the opportunity to read for enjoyment along with your students. A good book can be a great stress relief and a way to explore a new world for a little while. I hope you are able to find peace and relaxation in the novels we will be reading.
Google Classroom Code: 2nd period: nv4ityx 3rd period: ilovv3k
Teacher Availablility: I am always available via email at [email protected] for any questions from parents or students. We will also have a Google Hangout for students from 11:10-12:00 every weekday. This time is not mandatory, but I will be available for reading discussion and any questions from students. I encourage parents to read our book along with the students and to help with assignments where needed, but I would like to reserve the Google Classroom and the Google Hangout for student voices only in order to keep this time meaningful for students and promote their abilities as independent learners.
Class Expectations: There will be a daily check in on the Google Classroom. Similar to Mr. Sobczak's check in, I will just ask you if you are keeping up with the work and one thing you reflected on while reading. You may check in any time during the day. ***Please answer the Daily Check-In to receive credit for attendance and a participation grade*** On the Google Classroom and Hangouts, I expect you to abide by our school and technology code of conduct. Remember what you write is there forever and visible to anyone. Do not be afraid to disagree respectfully, but I expect you all to keep your comments appropriate and relevant, just like in the classroom.
Daily Schedule: I will post a video and written schedule for the week to Google Classroom by 8 a.m. every Monday. All assignments can be found on Google Classroom. Please be sure to answer the daily-check in for attendance and participation credit. Monday: Journal entry and 20 minutes of reading Tuesday: 30 minutes of reading Wednesday: 30 minutes of reading Thursday: Standards-based worksheet on the week's reading Friday: Reading check
Our Book: Students will be reading the book Esparanza Rising available on Amazon or in pdf format here: https://learn.susd12.org/pluginfile.php/377712/mod_resource/content/1/ESPERANZA%20Risins.pdf
Esparanza Rising from the publisher, Scholastic: "Esperanza thought she'd always live a privileged life on her family's ranch in Mexico. She'd always have fancy dresses, a beautiful home filled with servants, and Mama, Papa, and Abuelita to care for her. But a sudden tragedy forces Esperanza and Mama to flee to California and settle in a Mexican farm labor camp. Esperanza isn't ready for the hard work, financial struggles brought on by the Great Depression, or lack of acceptance she now faces. When Mama gets sick and a strike for better working conditions threatens to uproot their new life, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her difficult circumstances-because Mama's life, and her own, depend on it."
Parents can find more information on the book here: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/esperanza-rising
A student-made book trailer can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMB_bJRmxaM
I am looking forward to continuing reading with students. Please contact me via email if you have any questions. Stay home, stay safe, and wash those hands!
Thank you
Phillip Hurm 6th Grade Reading/7th Grade ELA Plato Academy St. Petersburg