6th grade ELO 4 Parent Letter

Dear 6^th Grade Parent/ Guardian:

During December, sixth grade students will continue to explore the theme of courage and will finish reading  Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin.  Students will write a thematic essay using relevant supporting evidence from Where the Mountain Meets the Moon .  Teachers gave each student a packet that breaks down the steps and due dates for this ELO. Please take the time to read through the packet carefully in order to familiarize yourself with what your child is learning and the process involved. Afterwards, kindly take a look below at the strategies you can use to help your child improve academically.

STRATEGIES

Ways You Can Help Your Child This Month:

1) Look at the calendar in the attached packet, copy the due dates on a calendar, and post them in your home.

2) Look at the essential questions listed on the top of the first page in the packet, and discuss them with your child.  Periodically (throughout the month) revisit these questions and ask your child to explain how the class text is germane to the questions.

3) Students will be writing a thematic essay in class.   While the students will learn what an essay is in class and will get assistance from their teacher, the following websites offer information related to writing essays.  Visit the websites and share the information with your child.   

http://www2.actden.com/writ_den/tips/essay/

http://www.mykidsway.com/essays/index.html

http://chs.mesa.k12.co.us/departments/language%20arts/thomas/9a_thematic_essay_format.html

4) Your child will be learning that most pieces of literature can offer valuable lessons.  Practices helping   your child identify lessons that he or she can learn based on his or her daily experiences.  This exercise both reinforces what is being taught in the classroom as well as strengthens his/her ability to apply these skills.

5) Ensure that your child is reading for at least twenty minutes each day.  Remember that the next book project is due December 10^th.

Your support is essential for your child’s success at the Frederick Douglass Academy.  Please don’t hesitate to contact your child's English teacher if you have any questions.

Yours truly,

Frederick Douglass Academy Middle School ELA department