English, Language Arts, and Reading
ELAR
Students master previously learned skills in increasingly complex presentations, reading selections, and written compositions. Students edit their writing based upon their knowledge of grammar and usage, spelling, punctuation, and other conventions of written language. Students will explore genres, such as fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama. In 7th grade an emphasis is placed on the components of good composition. In 8th grade an emphasis is place on literary analysis and making thematic connections across genres.
PRE-AP ELAR
This course integrates language arts by exploring genres, such as fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama, through analysis of literature that reflects a diverse cultural and literary heritage and the creation of each genre through the writing process. In addition to grade level requirements, this course prepares intrinsically motivated, task-oriented proficient readers and disciplined writers for success in our high school’s Advanced Placement program. This advanced course will teach the ELA TEKS with a focus on analysis and synthesis of subject area content, processes, and skills. Students will grasp and master grade level curriculum and move beyond basic concepts through rapid transition from concrete to abstract conceptual learning. Students should be prepared for independent reading, research, writing, and interdisciplinary projects outside of the classroom.
READING (6th, 7th, & 8th grades)
This course is designed to emphasize reading as a process. Reading concepts and strategies will be taught through the reading of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama. Students will write in response to what they read. This course will focus on preparing students to be successful on the STAAR test.