MEET THE TEACHER:
My name is Marcella Monk Flake and I am a veteran teacher of 35 years. I was born and raised in New Haven and I am a product of the New Haven Public School System. I attended Prince Street School, Troup Middle School and graduated from Richard C. Lee High School. I received my Bachelor's Degree from Connecticut College, a Master's Degree in Holistic Thinking from the Graduate Institute, I have 32 additional graduate credits in Gifted Education and School Counseling and I am presently enrolled in the Sixth Year Degree Program in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at SCSU.
I am a married mother of five. I love music and history, and in my spare time, I teach and direct gospel music. I love teaching and enjoy watching students develop a love for learning . I try to make learning challenging, fun, and culturally relevant.
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW:
As your child's language arts and social studies teacher, it it my goal to challenge them to become well educated citizens. Your children are members of a professional learning community and crew, and will meet with academic rigor and high expectations. Students are expected to exhibit a strong work ethic, and the willingness to treat all members of the school community in a respectful manner.
Last year's CMT test scores reflect a weakness in the areas of editing and revising. In English and language arts, students will receive daily practice to promote proficiency in these areas.
Students will read several core novels this year using "Plugged In." Our first novel is entitled, "The Skin I'm In", by Sharon G. Flake.
In social studies, students will compare and contrast three major cultures during the 14th Century. Students will research areas of interest in Tenochtitlan, Timbuktu, and Florence. This mini research project will yield a group wiki and independent projects.
To enhance our ability to present and support arguments using texts, students will participate in a mock trial and Constitutional Law unit. Students will explore the framing of the Constitution, and will learn the rules of mock trial. Students will argue cases involving tort law, larceny from a person, assault and battery, vandalism and contract law.
Lastly, students will explore American history and literature through jazz. Using www.jazzinamerica.org, an educational website provided by The Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, students will follow the development of America's music, jazz. Students will examine the idea of jazz as a metaphor for democracy.
CLASSROOM POLICIES::
Students are expected to come to class prepared. Students are expected to enter quietly and to begin their "Do Now" assignment without prompting.
Students will receive homework assignments on a daily basis. Students should arrive with completed homework and be willing to revise and edit assignments at the teacher's request. Students are to demonstrate respect for all members of the school body.
NIGHTLY READING:
Studies show that 1/2 hour of reading per night can greatly improve a student's reading ability. 45 minutes of daily reading will move your child to the head of the class. All students are expected to read for at least 30 minutes a night. Please sign your student's reading log daily. Together we can close the state's achievement gap. Remember, READERS ARE LEADERS !
CONTACT INFORMATION :
[email protected]