English Language Arts Across the Curriculum

English Language Arts (ELA) are essential in all areas of the curriculum. Providing strategic supports and scaffolds for ELA skills can help increase academic proficiency in the different content areas.

Reading

Reading involves decoding written text and understanding its meaning. This skill includes phonological awareness, phonics, print concepts, word analysis and fluency—all of which are essential for moving from recognizing words to comprehending entire texts. It also incorporates deeper reading strategies, like interpreting figurative language, analyzing themes, evaluating arguments and understanding rhetorical devices.

Proficient readers engage with various texts (e.g., prose, poetry, informational materials) that align with grade-level complexity. They can identify literary elements (e.g., character, setting, plot), examine an author’s style or voice, and synthesize information across genres. By refining these skills, students develop the ability to parse nuanced messages, think critically about text structures and purposes, and ultimately gain knowledge and insights from reading.

Communication

Communication centers on effectively conveying ideas in both written and oral formats. This includes writing narratives, argumentative essays and expository texts with clear structure, proper conventions and coherent development of ideas. It also involves producing and sharing research findings, whether in writing, digitally or via multimedia presentations.

Beyond written composition, communication highlights the organization and delivery of a message in any form—ensuring main points are logically arranged and supported by relevant evidence or examples. Students who master communication can articulate thoughts clearly, collaborate in discussions, and present polished, resource-cited materials suited to both academic and real-world contexts.

Listening and Questioning

Listening and questioning is the process of paying close attention to spoken information (e.g., stories, lectures, instructions) and actively engaging with it. It includes extracting key ideas, noting important details and formulating questions that clarify understanding or prompt deeper critical thinking.

Effective listening skills help students activate background knowledge, make connections, and demonstrate empathy or teamwork in group settings. Questioning extends beyond simple fact-finding, encouraging students to probe underlying assumptions, draw inferences and inspire collaborative learning. By listening attentively and asking meaningful questions, learners guide discussions toward more profound insights and problem-solving outcomes.

Information Analysis

Information analysis entails identifying a text’s structure, understanding its purpose and integrating various forms of data (e.g., graphs, diagrams, charts, or written content) into coherent summaries or conclusions. It involves gathering, cleaning and preparing information before employing analytical methods to interpret results.

Students skilled in information analysis can discern how headings, visuals and textual cues work together to shape comprehension. They are adept at organizing data into various graphic organizers (e.g., mind maps, concept charts) and interpreting those visuals for patterns or meaning. Ultimately, this helps them evaluate sources, synthesize evidence, and communicate findings clearly across multiple formats.

Vocabulary

Vocabulary is the cornerstone for understanding and expressing language. Vocabulary encompasses reading, listening, speaking and writing. It involves both general and subject-specific words or phrases, as well as knowledge of morphology (prefixes, suffixes, roots) and the ability to interpret context and connotation.

A well-developed vocabulary expands students’ capacity to grasp nuanced ideas, follow complex arguments and convey precise meaning. Whether they’re deciphering academic terminology, engaging with advanced literature or learning industry-specific jargon, students who systematically grow their word knowledge become more confident and articulate communicators in every domain.