Language Arts

6th Grade

Language study (strong emphasis on grammar, usage, mechanics, and editing of writing)

Writing– expository, persuasive, compare/contrast, narratives, and poetry, including sonnets

Shakespeare study – A Midsummer Night’s Dream: Unit includes Shakespearean sonnets, hands-on and written projects

Portfolio – completed at the end of the year

7th Grade

The 7th grade Advanced English Language Arts program is structured to foster a wide-range of rich literacy skills. Students develop research, writing, and oral communication skills that enhance their preparedness to succeed in all subject areas. The curriculum is aligned with the Common Core State Standards and includes literacy learning that fosters self-confidence and encourages our students to diligently use their reading and writing skills.

Given the course goals, students will be able to read critically, write effectively, and communicate efficiently. Students will continue working on their abilities to analyze a text and use textual evidence to answer critical thinking questions. Students will learn how texts are organized and the purpose for it. In the aspects of writing, students will continue developing their writing skills with explanatory, compare/contrast, argumentative, narrative, and research texts. There is a large focus on organization and writing style while publishing and citing sources to ensure students are producing writing that meets the standards. Students will learn to support their writing through research skills and using evidence from multiple texts. Speaking and listening skills will be learned through group discussions and presentations. Students will practice their command of the English language while delivering presentations with an extensive focus.

At-A-Glance

• Vocabulary: Vocabulary Workshop, Level D

• Text: CodeX, Course ll

• Writing- expository, compare/contrast, argumentative, narrative, research, creative

• Literature circle novel study

• Literary elements/devices workshop- children's book project

• Short story collection- W.W. Jacobs, Roald Dahl, Lucille Fletcher

• Strong emphasis on public speaking and presentation skills

• Participate in class discussions and literature circles

• Project and presentation development

8th Grade

Language Study: Grammar, usage, and editing skills taught through Caught Ya curriculum throughout year; Peer revision/editing will also occur for essays

Vocabulary study is incorporated in the Caught Ya curriculum and will occur throughout the year.

Writing – Expository and persuasive writing for writing assessments, class debates, poster and slideshow presentations, and narrative and expository writing for the Living History project. Students also write and analyze poetry,translate Shakespearean English into modern English, and journal on various topics.

Additional texts: Lay That Trumpet in Our Hands (historical fiction), Macbeth (play), The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens (nonfiction)

American Literature: includes poetry, short stories, and articles. The literature curriculum is designed to enhance the American History course, as well as strengthen students’ skills in literary analysis.