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Language
arts for grades 7-12 is based on composition, literature, and
vocabulary.
LANGUAGE ARTS 7
Language
Arts 7 addresses composition, appropriate use of language, and
literature. Grammar, mechanics, and spelling are taught directly
and within the context of literature and writing.
The
McDougall-Littell text, Literature and Language, an anthology
of short stories, poetry, and drama appropriate for seventh grade
level, provides a variety of literature activities. Writing
assignments often relate to literature and novel readings.
Students
practice reading skills. The Accelerated Reader assesses and
monitors reading practice, which is monitored and assessed
throughout the year.
Journals
are part of the writing experience, thus a spiral notebook of at
least 70 sheets to be kept in the classroom is required. A two-inch
three-ring notebook is required to organize class materials and
work.
LANGUAGE ARTS 8
Language
Arts 8 emphasizes composition, particularly descriptive, appropriate
use of language, and literature. Grammar, mechanics and spelling
are addressed directly and within the context of literature and
writing. Nebraska Standards of Reading and Writing are taught,
reviewed, and assessed. A research project using reading, writing,
and library skills is required.
The
McDougall-Littell text, Literature and Language, an anthology
of short stories, poetry, and drama appropriate for eighth grade
level is the major text. Class novels may be used as well. Writing
assignments are frequently based on literature.
Students
are also expected to practice reading skills. The Accelerated
Reader assesses and monitors this practice with reading levels
assessed and monitored during the year.
Journals
are kept and a spiral notebook of at least 70 sheets will be kept in
the classroom. A two-inch three-ring notebook is required to
organize class materials and work.
ENGLISH 9
The
emphasis in English 9 will be on composition and the appropriate use
of the English language. Grammar, mechanics, and spelling will be
addressed within the context of literature and writing. The writing
emphasis will be the paragraph in a complete composition.
Weekly
vocabulary lessons and quizzes are required. Literature units will
include a variety of short stories and books (books may include:
The Outsiders, Call of the Wild, White Fang, To
Kill a Mockingbird and other classics). Written responses to
literature will be part of the literature grade. Journals will be
kept; therefore, each student is to have a small (1/2") three-ring
binder for class. An introduction to public speaking will also be
explored.
SOPHOMORE ENGLISH I
Sophomore English I emphasizes the literature
of many cultures and times including mythology and The Odyssey.
Writing skills is an integral part of the class. Students are
expected to use composition and grammar skills learned in the
previous grades.
Grammar and mechanics are addressed by
correction of personal work and through mini-lessons on particular
skills. Vocabulary is incorporated through the study of
literature. Julius Caesar or Romeo and Juliet by
Shakespeare, Night by Elie Wiesel and Fahrenheit 451
by Ray Bradbury and other works of literature are used.
SOPHOMORE ENGLISH II
Sophomore English II emphasizes writing. It
includes the literature of many cultures and time including
mythology and The Odyssey. Students are expected to use
composition and grammar skills learned in the previous grades.
Grammar and mechanics are addressed by
correction of personal work and through mini-lessons on particular
skills. Vocabulary is incorporated through the study of
literature. The House on Mango Street by Cisneros, Black
Elk Speaks by Niehardt and other works of literature are used.
JUNIOR ENGLISH I
In Junior English I the focus of study will be
American literature, American authors, and the time periods during
which they lived and wrote. The text basis will be the
McDougall-Littell's Literature and Language book. In addition, each
class may do group readings of selected American novels and/or
particular Nebraska authors. During this reading time, students
will be in literary circles with rotating, assigned roles and duties
to conduct the lessons under the direction of the teacher. Study
guides, worksheets, vocabulary, personal reflections, quizzes, and
tests will be used in various ways as assessment. The students will
also be assessed on the Nebraska Reading and Writing Standards,
particularly those focused on literature.
JUNIOR ENGLISH II
In Junior English II the focus will be
writing. In this section the students will complete writings using
a variety of forms but most especially the persuasive essay in order
to meet the Nebraska Reading and Writing Standards 12.2.1-2.5.
Also, elements of both fiction and non-fiction will be explored to
enhance the students’ writing skills. Personal response/reflection
journals will be kept. Sharing one’s writing via public speaking
will also be explored.
SENIOR ENGLISH I
This course is designed to give students an
introduction to what they may expect from a college course.
Students will study literary classics from the Middle Ages, the
Renaissance, and Modern Literature. Selections may include The
Grapes of Wrath, Hamlet, The Mayor of Casterbridge
and Death of a Salesman.
Composition exercises, based on literature,
will include in-class essays, essay exams, and formal papers.
Students will be required to write a critical analysis research
paper based on multicultural texts/authors. The final draft must be
typed or word processed.
Grammar instruction will be individualized
according to the student’s need. Weekly vocabulary/spelling quizzes
are required.
SENIOR ENGLISH II
This
course focuses on the kinds of English skills needed in the “real”
world. Writing will include preparation for various aspects of
business and personal writings and technical writing. Grammar and
writing mechanics will be briefly reviewed and will also be
addressed on an individual basis.
Reading
will be done in small groups and will be selected by the students
with the approval of the teacher. Lesson-based discussions will be
student led.
Vocabulary/spelling lessons will be required. Journal entries will
be written periodically. |
