English

Students in grade K-5 are instructed in the basics of writing and spelling. A sequentially based English program takes students through the basics of grammar and usage through the construction of a basic sentence, to the construction of a four paragraph paper. Editing, revising and proofreading are an integral part of the writing process for the students. In addition, the students explore spelling patterns in order to gain a solid base of word knowledge in our spelling and phonics curriculum.

Students in grades 6-8 build upon the fundamentals of grammar in conjunction with student-created writing. Students continue to expand their basic skills in vocabulary and traditional grammar and demonstrate mastery of conventions, usage, and mechanics of language. The writing emphasizes the use of grammatically correct paragraphs as a means of assisting students with self-expression. Thinking, speaking, and writing skills are applied to create clear, logical, and coherent written expression. Specific focus for this course is on expository writing, with larger focus on research documentation in a multi-paragraph essay. For students in eighth grade, focus is on research documentation in a traditional research paper. The rigorous course of writing will prepare students for both high school and standardized testing. Students participate in the Spelling Bee and the Oratorical Contest; they also have the opportunity to participate in regional and national writing contests.