Writing. Reading. Thinking.
Throughout the Middle School English program, students learn to think and read critically, articulate their ideas through writing and speaking, and develop an independent voice. We organize instruction and assessments around seven key English skills:
- Speaking and listening skills: using evidence, questioning, responding to others, making connections, and clearly presenting ideas
- Reading volume and comprehension of a range of texts
- Analysis and interpretation of texts, in writing and/or speaking
- Purpose, organization, and detail in writing across a variety of genres
- Written expression, including word choice, sentence structure, and attention to voice and language nuances
- Understanding and application of grammar and mechanics
- Vocabulary development and use
A prioritized goal of the department is to instill in students the habits of lifelong readers. Through whole-class shorter texts, such as stories, poems, speeches, and essays, we teach targeted literary elements and expose students to a wide variety of voices, styles, and messages. Furthermore, students study whole-class novels, participate in book clubs, and read self-selected independent texts for a goal of 18 books read per year by each student.
Students use the writing process of studying mentor texts, brainstorming, drafting, and revising to compose both creative and analytical writings. To hone speaking and listening skills, students frequently engage in book clubs, group discussions, and student-led Socratic circles. Additionally, students explore the finer points of the English language through the study of vocabulary and grammar.
Three enduring understandings guide the curricular philosophy of Middle School English:
- Literature expands our understanding of the world, humanity, and ourselves
- Used strategically and with purpose, language empowers
- Language sparks joy, inspiration, beauty, and meaning
Our ultimate goal is for our students to stretch themselves through the richness that English has to offer.
Meet our Middle School English faculty.