English Language Arts

Goal

The goal of the Pre-K–12 English Language Arts program is to create literate, thoughtful communicators, capable of controlling language effectively as they negotiate an increasingly complex and information-rich world. Students will refine specific skills and strategies in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing and will use these skills and strategies widely as tools for learning and reflection. Exploring a variety of texts, students will understand and appreciate language and literature as catalysts for deep thought and emotion.

Enduring Understandings

• Language is a powerful tool for expressing ideas, beliefs, and feelings.
• Knowledge of language facilitates thought. 
• Readers, listeners, and viewers continually develop and apply strategies to construct meaning from increasingly complex and challenging texts. 
• Writers and speakers strategically use language to communicate for a variety of purposes. 
• Individuals need advanced literacy skills to participate actively and successfully in today’s demanding, information-based society. 
• Literature reveals the complexities of the world.