The fundamental goal in Language Arts is for students to develop solid literacy skills that will be used in every content area throughout the curriculum and be the foundation for the students continued learning as they grow and develop. We offer a balanced literacy program which promotes reading, writing, listening and speaking.

Reading - In our developmental reading program, resources such as Harcourt Trophies Anthologies, Leveled Books, Accelerated Reading, and A-Z Readers are used in harmony with literature circles and guided reading to help students improve their reading fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. Teachers promote a love of reading in every child through modeling reading, providing regular visits to the school library, encouraging access to book clubs, and maintaining an interesting classroom library. Students are expected to become voluntary, independent readers.

Writing - Children have opportunities for writing in a variety of forms which includes journal writing, poems, descriptions, narratives, reports, and personal response after reading. Using Six Traits, writer’s workshop, and technology, teachers help students develop and strengthen different aspects of their written skills.

Speaking/Listening - Effective communication is a central focus throughout our elementary school. Students learn to speak confidently in front of small and large groups by having frequent opportunities to give reports, presentations, and talks as well as participating in role playing. Encouraging students to listen attentively and actively is also a goal that is promoted by teachers in every subject area.