Language Arts 6:
The primary focus of language arts is learning to become a better writer; therefore, the six-trait model is used to improve student writing. Six-trait writing identifies the following six characteristics of good writing: organization, ideas, word choice, sentence fluency, voice, and conventions. Students will become familiar with these terms by the end of sixth grade. Focusing learning on these traits will allow students to improve in all aspects of writing.
While most of the instruction includes grammar, spelling, and punctuation while working on writing pieces, the class will also review the basic rules of written language using a program called “Daily Language Review (DLR)” during which students are encouraged to use any available resources to help them including dictionaries, thesaurus, and the Write Source 2000 book.
Language Arts 7:
This class consists of writing, speaking, and listening. Students will write to communicate to different audiences for a variety of purposes. In addition, they will use the five steps in the writing process: plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish. Students will also speak for a variety of purposes and audiences. Lastly, students will learn listening skills for a variety of purposes including critical listening to media. Some major units of study in Language Arts include poetry, persuasive essays, personal narrative, and a 1930’s research paper.
Language Arts 8:
A combined instruction of reading, writing, speaking, and listening are covered in eighth grade language arts. We also incorporate the six-traits of writing using a variety of writing styles, defining the purpose for writing pieces, and the various genres. There is also an emphasis on researching skills, fostering creativity, and increasing the understanding of spelling, vocabulary, and the conventions of writing.
