Natasha LeBlanc

In an English class, don't ask if something counts for marks. You will get death-stared at by Mrs. Leblanc-because everything counts. Get used to the portfolio system. Be proactive in putting pieces you've done in them, because the more evidence of learning, the better your mark could be. You may not be a fan of it because it's not what you're used to, but it is SO much better than doing a giant exam. In the lead up to the interview, you don't have to write a script, but keep in mind the evidence you want to show off to show your growth (ie. A bad reading comp. test from the beginning of the year vs your most recent one). Also, relax. The interviews are not stressful. They are literally so chill. This should go without saying, but try to participate in class. Even if you're not confident, or you don't think you're right, it shows that you're trying to engage with the class- and that alone can earn you a higher mark, especially if you do it often, use big words in conversations (this is English class after all), or try to encourage others to speak (especially in small groups). One final universally applicable note: if your handwriting is terrible, learn to type, like *properly*. If you start early, like in grade 9, you'll be hitting at least 60 wpm without looking at the keyboard (or even your screen for that matter). It'll really help in speeding up the time it takes to write homework paragraphs/essays, and you can get a lot of practice in this class.