The study of literary masterpieces, essays, and poetic forms integrates skill development in reading, dictionary and research, listening, writing, and speaking. Particular emphasis on grammar, syntax and vocabulary development adds to the level of work students produce.
Reading
Reading is a developmental process which allows students to progress at their own rates. Students learn to use context cues, word identification strategies and sentence structure to gain understanding in a variety of authentic texts.
Through guided reading groups, students learn in various genres and are exposed to the elements of literature beyond character, plot and setting. They read, comprehend, evaluate, and apply meaning to text. Books are often chosen which pertain to the units they are studying. Students present book reviews, offering insight and suggestions to other readers.
Writing
Students learn to write for a variety of purposes for a variety of audiences.
Writing is taught as a process that includes pre-writing, drafting, editing, re-writing and publishing/presenting. Editing strengthens writing skills. Peers and teachers evaluate voice, word choice, organization, and writing conventions. Students incorporate changes from the editing process, using real-world editing demarcations. Their final draft provides opportunities to share their understanding with others.
Students conduct research on topics of interest or issues by generating ideas, asking questions, and recognizing problems. They gather and synthesize information to communicate understanding and knowledge.
Mechanics
This student-centered program is based on the learning values of student choice and ownership. It integrates word studies with personal writing, emphasizes that developing strong spelling and vocabulary skills is a process, and broadens student understanding of the pluralistic nature of the English language. The workshop approach supports the needs of varying students, challenges all ability levels, and teaches students lifelong learning habits by empowering them with the skills and tools necessary to successfully navigate written English. Students have the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of spelling, as well as practice applying new vocabulary words accurately in context.
