| |
Kathryn Conole - 8th Grade
Language Arts, Literature, Religion, Social Studies
19 years at Holy Family - 32 years teaching experience
Room 205 Ext.222
conolek@archmil.org |
| |
| Philosophy of Education |
My goal as an educator of middle school students is three-fold:
First, I need to be a positive role-model, demonstrating through my actions
and words that I am trying to live out my faith, knowing that my example
can be a powerful motivation for my students’ spiritual, emotional, and
academic development.
Second, the atmosphere that I establish in the classroom is very important.
Each student deserves to be treated with respect and fairness; no
one can learn in an environment which he/she perceives to be
uncomfortable or threatening. Discipline must be fair and consistent.
Humor, flexibility, and enthusiasm are qualities every good teacher
must possess.
Third, each student comes to me with talents that need to be further developed,
and weaknesses that need special attention. It is my challenge to meet
these various needs, and in the process, teach them to teach themselves,
for we are all life-long learners.
|
| |
|
Curriculum Summary
|
| |
| Religion |
| Our two main textbooks are Church History and Morality.
In Church History we learn about the roots of our faith and the people
that were part of this history throughout the centuries. In Morality we
learn that the way to true happiness is by making good, responsible
choices and using Christ as our role model. Human growth and development
is explored with the book Fully Alive. We also learn and grow in our
faith by reading scripture, creating prayer services, performing skits,
and playing religious-themed games. |
| |
| Reading/Literature |
| We read classics such as To Kill a Mockingbird and
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, as well as novels for young
adults such as The Outsiders and The Giver. In reading and
discussing these books, students learn about theme, plot, symbols,
character development, and vocabulary. By becoming insightful and critical
readers, our students will learn more about themselves and the world in which
they live. Students are also required to do independent reading in a
variety of genres throughout the year. |
| |
| Language Arts |
| The middle school language arts program uses two texts - an
English grammar/writing book, and a vocabulary book. Students gain knowledge
and proficiency in listening, speaking, and writing through a variety of
activities. The curriculum for grades six through eight includes grammar, creative
writing, poetry, essays, reports, speeches, spelling, and vocabulary. |
| |
| Other Classroom News |
|
As eighth graders, the students have many opportunities to
form bonds of unity and learn skills of organization, responsibility,
and cooperation. Some activities they participate in are the
Ropes Challenge Course, an overnight retreat, and various
fundraising projects.
Quotes
"I don't imagine your students tell you often enough
that your hard work and commitment is appreciated. From a
parent's perspective I want you to know I acknowledge the
excellent job you do with your students." (Past Parent)
"Students attending schools with fewer eighth grade peers
demonstrated more academic engagement." (Effects of School
Restructuring on the Achievement and Engagement of Middle
Grade Students - University of Wisconsin, Madison)
|