The development of effective communication is stressed throughout the middle school years. Our aim is to help students to become active and effective readers, writers, speakers and listeners. To this end, our English Language Arts curriculum is aligned with New York State ELA standards. The skills associated with each standard will be developed through a literature-based curriculum with emphasis on the writing process and reading skills. Technology and the arts are also integrated as vehicles for creative expression. The nature of the New York State Grade 8 ELA Assessment has reinforced our belief in the use of rubrics at all levels. The assessment will be given at each grade level and focuses on critical thinking, comprehension, listening, writing and editing. In addition every student is expected to read at least 25 books per year. Please use our Summer Reading list throughout the year to help students make wise independent reading choices.

Grade 6

Through individual and cooperative learning activities, students develop their reading, writing, and communication skills.  Teachers are committed to helping students develop their critical thinking skills both individually and collaboratively in the classroom.  Teachers emphasize the importance of being a life-long reader and writer. Students dive into various texts and genres, including poetry, both independently and collaboratively through book clubs and writing workshop throughout the course of the year. The sixth grade encourages students to think deeply as they read and write analytically through journal pieces, longs writes, stop and jots, research, and varied types of essay work.  Students work on their editing and revision skills throughout the year as they work through the stages of writer’s workshop: drafting, editing, revision, peer review and final pieces for publication. Throughout the year students have opportunities to work together on small group and independent projects and present them to their peers and teachers.  Students will work through various social emotional learning techniques by way of the mood meter and with lessons on being present and mindful in your own skin.

Grade 7

The seventh grade ELA department uses the workshop model to engage students and help them grow as readers and writers. In our reading units, students experience a variety of genres such as realistic fiction, dystopian, historical fiction, poetry, drama, and nonfiction. Throughout the year, students are immersed in book clubs, whole class novels, and independent reading units that improve critical thinking skills and help them see the world through different eyes. During our writing units, students develop their skills as writers of stories, argument pieces, and informational texts. They also have opportunities to research high-interest topics and collaborate with others on creative projects that they will present to an audience.

Grade 8

English Language Arts 8 provides a balanced approach to literature and composition that follows the New York State Next Generation of Reading and Writing Skills standards and builds seamlessly upon our sixth and seventh grade program. Students will improve their reading, writing, and communication skills through a wide array of academic experiences. Students analyze a variety of genres studying structure, craft, and style, both individually and collaboratively throughout the year. Students then transfer this knowledge into original narratives, literary essays, arguments, and creative pieces that simultaneously emphasize writing technique while celebrating the student’s individual writing style.