English Language Arts
Program Philosophy
The overarching goal of the Ramsey English Language Arts program is to develop the skills necessary to be broadly literate in a modern society, and in turn, be able to act upon these skills to take part in a global culture. We look to help students to think critically and figuratively in order to achieve personal fulfillment and to communicate effectively in a complex society. To do this, we look for students to appreciate language, explore their passions, and apply their understanding to the context of their experiences through critical reading, well-developed research, and various forms of inquiry. We also look for students to read complex texts with engagement to create lifelong lovers of literature.
This structure aims to encourage students to produce works that are both meaningful and skillfully created. The craft of writing is deeply explored alongside the fundamental skills of clarity, coherence, and grammar. An effective use of language transfers their understanding of various styles, genres and forms to convey an interpretation of their worldview. The art of rhetoric (speaking) is also explored to speak thoughtfully with an understanding of audience and culture, and to engage and collaborate in meaningful conversations. These skills and mindsets are essential to building successful future in the 21st century.
program Transfer Goals
What will a Ramsey graduate be able to DO after completing the K-12 course of study in English Language Arts?
Produce work that is well reasoned, creative, and shows insight into the human experience.
Use language effectively to communicate complex ideas both in the written and spoken forms.
Comprehend, interpret, and synthesize complex ideas through various genres and styles of media.
Research and evaluate sources for authenticity and bias.
Use the skills of English Language Arts to accurately interpret their daily experiences.
Overarching Enduring Understandings
Strong readers understand a text through critically reading, interpreting, inferring, and responding.
Strong writing is a process that is shaped by genre, audience and purpose.
To communicate effectively, one needs to listen critically as well as demonstrate a strong control of language.
There are many levels (both literal / figurative) in which we understand the world.
The language we use can shape and transform the world in which we live.
Overarching Essential Questions
How do writers craft language to achieve a specific purpose?
How do I communicate effectively with a clear understanding of purpose and audience?
How do I interpret a world that is complex?
How should my understanding of audience influence how I communicate?
How does literature impact how we live our lives?
How do speaking and writing differ?