ENGLISH 6
English 6 is a one year course focusing on reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary development, literary response, and writing. The purpose is to prepare students to understand the structure of the English language and to apply this knowledge to their daily thinking and writing. Our intention is to encourage students to engage in higher level thinking and experience success with their written and oral communication.
ENGLISH 7
Seventh grade English is a language-based course focusing on developing understanding of the structure of the English language and applying this knowledge to literature and writing. Students will read a variety of literature and, as a class, will read and discuss two novels during the year. Literature will be examined from a Christian point of view, though all stories will not necessarily be Christian. Students will write in varying formats including persuasive essays, 5 paragraph essays, creative writing, and at least one major research paper. Vocabulary is an integral part of the curriculum with an emphasis on prefix, suffix and root word origins.
ENGLISH 8
The primary focus of eighth grade English is on developing an understanding of the structure of the English language and applying this knowledge to literature and writing. Students read a variety of genres in the literature text, as well as two additional books. Writing assignments include paragraphs, formal essays, poetry, and a research report. Students are prepared to write a five paragraph essay for the Writing Proficiency test – given three times throughout the year. In addition, vocabulary and grammar are an integral part to give greater understanding and reinforcement to the curriculum.
ADVANCED ENGLISH 8
In advanced eighth grade English, students are expected to be self-motivated and to possess a desire and enthusiasm to excel in all areas of the English curriculum (including grammar, literature, vocabulary, and writing). Students are challenged to develop divergent, “out of the box” critical and creative thinking skills through assignments that emphasize upper level skills of application, analysis, and evaluation. Maintaining a “B” average is a requirement to stay in this class. Requirements will include more high-level reading, essay writing, and advanced grammar concepts. Students read a variety of genres in the literature text, as well as two additional books. Writing assignments include formal and informal essays, and a research report. Creative writing skills are developed through poetry, autobiographical or biographical writing, short stories, and other expository writing assignments. Lastly, time is devoted inside/outside of class to prepare students to write a five-paragraph essay for the Writing Proficiency Test- which is given three times throughout the year.