Our language arts program is the vehicle that ensures students develop the strategies and skills they need to comprehend and communicate effectively. Reading, writing, listening, speaking, viewing and presenting are addressed within our curriculum under the language arts content standards provided by the state of Connecticut. All strands are active, constructive processes and taught as interrelated and interdependent.
Literacy development is greatest when written, spoken and visual communication are taught in context. Students are expected to be active learners who are flexible and prepared to grow as they organize, analyze, revise, evaluate and synthesize information. Students are also encouraged to develop an appreciation and respect for all forms of literacy.
The purpose of the language arts curriculum is to foster life-long learners, thinkers, collaborates and communicators. Our goal is to prepare students to use the language arts proficiently as productive members of a global society.
Standard 1: Strategic Reading
Overarching Idea: Students students apply strategies to recognize words, to read fluently, to monitor and correct reading, and to comprehend text.
Guiding Question: How do we understand what we read?
1.1 Students use appropriate strategies before, during and after reading in order to construct meaning.
1.2 Students interpret, analyze and evaluate text in order to extend understanding and appreciation.
1.3 Students select and apply strategies to facilitate word recognition and develop vocabulary in order to comprehend text.
1.4 Students communicate with others to create interpretations of written, oral and visual texts.
Standard 2: Exploring and Responding to Text
Overarching Idea: Students respond to a variety of texts (literary, informational and persuasive) presented in a variety of multimedia formats.
Guiding Question: How do a variety of texts (literary, informational and persuasive) enrich our lives?
2.1 Students recognize how literary devices and conventions engage the reader.
2.2 Students explore multiple responses to a variety of texts (literary, informational and persuasive).
2.3 Students recognize and appreciate that contemporary and classical literature has shaped human thought.
2.4 Students recognize that readers and authors are influenced by individual, social, cultural and historical contexts.
Standard 3: Communicating with Others
Overarching Idea: Students produce written, oral and visual texts to express, develop and substantiate ideas and experiences.
Guiding Question: How do we write, speak and present effectively?
3.1 Students use descriptive, narrative, expository, persuasive and poetic modes.
3.2 Students prepare, publish and/or present work appropriate to audience, purpose and task.
Standard 4: Applying English Language Conventions
Overarching Idea: Students apply the conventions of standard English in oral, written and visual communication.
Guiding Question: How do we use the English language appropriately to speak and write?
4.1 Students use knowledge of their language and culture to improve competency in English.
4.2 Students speak and write using standard language structures and diction appropriate to audience and task.
4.3 Students use standard English for composing and revising written text.