English Language Arts Curriculum

• It is our vision to provide a stimulating learning environment that enables all students to read widely, think critically, and communicate effectively in order to function in the 21^st century and beyond. Students are expected to meet the rigor of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) through a variety of authentic, differentiated activities that empower students to grow academically and socially. These consistent standards will provide appropriate benchmarks for all students, regardless of where they live.

   Some key instructional elements are listed below.

   Reading
  • Through reading a diverse array of classic and contemporary literature as well as challenging informational texts in a range of subjects, students are expected to build knowledge, gain insights, explore possibilities, and broaden their perspective.

   Writing
  • The ability to write logical arguments based on claims, reasoning, and evidence is a cornerstone of the writing standards, with opinion writing- a basic form of argument-extending down into the earliest grades.
  • Research- both short, focused projects and in depth research- is emphasized

  Speaking and Listening:

The standards require that students gain, evaluate, and present increasingly complex information, ideas, and evidence through listening and speaking as well as through media.

An important focus of the speaking and listening standards is academic discussion in one-on-one, small-group, and whole-class settings. Through formal presentations and informal discussion students collaborate to answer questions, build understanding and solve problems.

• Media and Technology

  • Just as media and technology are integrated in school and life in the twenty-first century, skills related to media use (both critical analysis and production of media) are integrated throughout the standards.