Page 10 - SpringBoard_ELA_Grade8_Flipbook

to the student
welCome to sPringboArd!
Dear Student,
Welcome to the SpringBoard program! This program has been created with you in mind: it contains the English Language Arts content you need to learn, the tools to help you learn, and tasks to strengthen the critical thinking skills that prepare you for high school and beyond.
In SpringBoard, you will explore compelling themes through reading, writing, discussions, performances, and research. You will closely read short stories, novels, poems, historical texts, and articles. You’ll also view and interpret films, plays, and audio texts while comparing them to their related print versions. With frequent opportunities to write creatively and analytically throughout the program, you will develop fluency, research skills, and an understanding
of how to craft your writing based on audience and purpose. Through collaborative discussions, presentations, performances, and debates with your peers, you will deepen your understanding of the texts you’ve read and viewed and learn how to convey your ideas with clarity and voice.
Tools to help you learn are built into every lesson. At the beginning of each activity, you will see suggested learning strategies, each of which is explained in full in the Resources section of your book. These strategies will help you deeply analyze text, collect evidence for your writing, and critically think about and discuss issues and ideas. Within the activities, you’ll also notice explanations about essential vocabulary and grammar concepts that will enrich your ability to read and write effectively.
With high school right around the corner, now is the time to challenge yourself to develop skills and habits you need to be successful throughout your academic career. The SpringBoard program provides you with meaningful
and engaging activities built on the rigorous standards that lead to high school, college, and career success. Your participation in SpringBoard will help you advance your reading, writing, language, and speaking and listening skills, all while helping you build confidence in your ability to succeed academically.
We hope you enjoy learning with the SpringBoard program. It will give you many opportunities to explore ideas and issues collaboratively and independently and to cultivate new skills as you prepare for your future.
Sincerely, SpringBoard
to the student ix
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