English Classes and Information
English Classes
Reading (at or above grade level)
This Seventh Grade class is designed to teach students how
to enjoy reading and how to incorporate reading into their
daily lives. Students spend time in class each day reading
from books of their choice as well as materials chosen by
the instructor. Students in this class also receive the
opportunity to visit the library on a regular basis and
learn to use the technology available in our school.
Reading Fundamentals
This year-long class is designed to address the needs of
Seventh Grade students who are reading 1-2 grade levels
below the standard and is required for students who fit
this category. Basic comprehension skills and strategies
as well as oral and silent reading techniques are emphasized,
and students learn to read for information as well as pleasure.
Seventh Grade English
In Seventh Grade English students receive an introduction
to the writing process, the BIG 6 research technique, punctuation
and grammar. Emphasis is placed on the construction of complete
sentences and well developed, four to five sentence paragraphs.
Students engage in critical reading and discussion of poetry,
short stories, plays, Greek mythology and the novels The
Outsiders and The Giver.
Freshmen English
Freshmen English focuses on literacy in reading and writing.
Various reading strategies are used and several reading
programs--including Accelerated Reader--are in place. Freshman
students are taught the five paragraph essay format in expository
writing. They complete a persuasive essay involving research.
The Big 6 research technique is incorporated into the writing
process. The elements of literature are mastered and used
as topics for writing. Various literary genre are included
in the curriculum: short stores, novels, Romeo and Juliet,
and the Odyssey. Because Freshman English earns high school
credit, responsibility in attendance and citizenship is
also emphasized.
Eighth Grade English
In Eighth Grade English, students review the writing process
and BIG 6 research technique and are introduced to the three
to five paragraph essay while continuing to focus on punctuation
and grammar skills. Students are engaged in the writing
of more difficult paragraphs and learn how to write business
letters. Students engage in critical reading and discussion
of poetry, short stories, plays and the novels The Diary
of Anne Frank and DownRiver.
English as a Second Language (E.S.L.)
English as a Second Language is for students whose primary
language is not English. Students focus on gaining and improving
reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in English.
Classes are offered at intermediate and beginning levels.
You also need to take ESL U.S. History or ESL Geography
depending on your grade level. A teacher's signature is
required to enroll in ESL classes. If you or your parents
speak another language at home, please see an ESL teacher.
