Language Arts skills form the foundation for most academic learning. And, since freedom is largely dependent on understanding what choices there are to be made, and the ability to grasp the options is largely based on reading skill, proficiency in the Language Arts is essential to being a functioning and informed member of one’s society, able to serve others.

The Language Arts Department has developed a program from the early grades through High School which is designed to give students a firm grasp of skills in reading, spelling, writing, penmanship, rhetoric, and grammar. Writing skills are especially encouraged and practiced from the earliest grades, and substantial time is devoted to developing our students’ skills in this area.

Our program is committed to presenting students with literature that is both challenging and excellent, exposing them to classics and great literature as well as to the history and culture of diverse groups. Literature is seen as a vehicle that can open up new ideas for students, help them to investigate their own potential, to learn more about themselves and those around them, and to become aware of the dynamics of human relationships. Fiction conveys a thoughtful understanding of the point of view of others, which contributes to an ability to understand other cultures and times—indeed, all aspects of the human experience.

Writing skills are equally important, and students write continually from the early grades. Our literature program familiarizes students with the potential of language for the expression in writing. Our students learn to express themselves clearly, concisely, and well.

Competence in all areas of Language Arts gives students the power and skill to more fully understand themselves, their environments, and others. From this students can grow in personal strengths and develop a solid foundation of self-respect and the freedom to serve others, which leads to successful functioning in daily life.

Curriculum Notes

Writing in the elementary grades includes creative writing, journals, reading responses, and reporting, and each year there is an all-day Writers Workshop for Kindergarten through Sixth Grade students. Through Junior High and High School, research writing, formal expository writing, journals, and creative writing hone the skills of maturing students.

Literature selections in Junior High and High School English classes are themed; High School students have two one-semester classes each year. Topics include: the experience of ethnic minorities in America; characters on a quest for truth, happiness, peace of mind, or the American Dream; character metamorphosis; classic contemporary literature; life stages through literature and autobiography; and the short story. Seniors research a special project, interviewing veterans about an aspect of World War II, with a presentation scheduled close to Pearl Harbor Day.

• Introduction to typing skills: 3rd and 4th grades
• Basics of English grammar: introduced in the 5th grade
• Standardized spelling tests: twice yearly, 1st – 8th grades
• Individualized progress assessments for special needs: end of 2nd and 6th grades

Department Head: Karen Bicknell