English Language Arts

The sixth grade language arts program offers a variety of standards-based learning experiences.  The program is based on sixth grade Language Arts Common Core State Standards.  These standards offer a focus for instruction to ensure an adequate exposure to a range of texts and tasks.  Rigor is infused through reading and studying the components of literature with increasingly complex text, both fiction and non-fiction.  Students will improve their skills in English grammar, writing, vocabulary development and reading strategies, along with speaking and listening skills.  Writing a correct sentence, organizing and expressing ideas clearly in all genres of writing are emphasized.  This course is intended to help    acclimate all sixth graders to the high academic expectations of the language arts programs at Desert Ridge. 

The seventh grade language arts program offers a variety of standards-based learning experiences.  The program is based on seventh grade Language Arts Common Core State Standards.  These standards offer   a focus for instruction to ensure an adequate exposure to a range of texts and tasks.  Rigor is infused through reading and studying the components of literature with increasingly complex text, both fiction   and non-fiction.  Students will integrate English grammar, vocabulary, literature and the writing process, along with appropriate speaking and listening skills. The conventions of writing are constantly used and edited.  Writing assignments will include all genres of writing. Students will study text structure and learn how that helps to understand the author’s meaning. They will learn to recognize the   important information in non-fiction articles, practice interpretive and critical reading, and how to read for appreciation and enjoyment. 

The eighth grade language arts program offers a variety of standards-based learning experiences.  The program is based on eighth grade Language Arts Common Core State Standards.  These standards offer    a focus for instruction to ensure an adequate exposure to a range of texts and tasks.  Rigor is infused through reading and studying the components of literature with increasingly complex text, both fiction   and non-fiction.  Students will further  integrate English grammar, literature and the writing process, along with   appropriate speaking and listening skills.  Writing conventions are also learned, used and edited.  Vocabulary is presented and used in a critical manner. Writing assignments will include all genres of   writing including argumentative, narrative, and research based. Students will study text structure and learn how that helps to understand the author’s meaning. They will learn interpretive and critical reading skills, along with literary analysis.  An emphasis will be placed on individual responsibility to help the transition to high school. 

The accelerated program at the eighth grade levels is offered to those students who have shown a need for an accelerated delivery of rigorous content. Reading and writing skills above grade level are necessary for success in these classes. Subject matter will be taught at an accelerated pace and in greater depth. 

Accelerated Placement:  Student placement in the accelerated program is based on both reading and writing benchmark assessments and classroom observations. The advanced requirements for success in an accelerated class include the need for self-motivated, self-disciplined, and academically driven students. 

This three-year curriculum addresses grammatical mechanics and usage through specific exercises as well as writing tasks involving narrative, creative and expository forms.  Students work with intensive vocabulary lessons and readings in a variety of literary genres.  

 Speaking, writing and listening activities will emphasize critical thinking and creative expression. Leadership skills will be addressed through participation in individual and group projects.  Major emphasis is placed on the novel, short story, poetry, and drama using a series of thematic units which  emphasize literary analysis and terms necessary for deeper understanding of the literature.  Research skills and writing across all genres will also be emphasized.

Students can only be enrolled in gifted ELA if designated by the service hours listed in their annual IEP (Individualized Education Plan).