English Language Arts Curriculum:

•    Grammar: 8th grade students work daily on Grammar preparing them for the rigors of high school English; 7th grade students have Grammar lessons twice per week using Loyola Press Voyages in English.
•    Vocabulary: Both 7th and 8th grade students work with challenging vocabulary words from the Wordly Wise program.
•    Literature: 7th and 8th graders make use of the Prentice Hall Literature Series Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes. Students read several novels throughout the year covering various genres of study.
•    Writing:  Students are taught to respond to various writing prompts and use Grammar skills taught daily in their writing.
• Accelerated Reading: As reading will continue to enhance a student’s vocabulary skills, students are expected to read for 20 minutes each night in addition to their regular school work. Students will respond to questions on the AR website to check their reading.

Assessments: Various methods are used to assess student learning. Written work is evaluated on organization, content, and mechanics. Other assessment tools include multi-choice, matching, true/false, and fill-in tests and quizzes on Vocabulary, Literature,  and Grammar. Projects with rubrics will also be included in grading.

Grading: The English Language Arts grade will consist of Literature and Writing. Within the Literature grade, Reading, Vocabulary,  and Accelerated Reading points will be included. For Writing, writing skills and Grammar will make up the report card grade.