Language Arts

Building upon the foundational skills established in Lower School, Middle School Language Arts continues to develop students' abilities in writing, reading, and speaking. The curriculum incorporates units crafted through the Columbia University Teachers College Reading and Writing Project. Writing assignments in Middle School encompass narrative, research-based informative writing, and persuasive units of study. The writing process involves self-exploration, collaboration with peers, and partnerships, guiding students through brainstorming, outlining, revision, and editing.

Reading skills focus on increasing vocabulary, critical thinking, and comprehension. All three grades offer independent reading choices alongside assigned in-class literature. Students are exposed to a diverse group of authors and literary genres, including Flying Lessons and Other Stories, ed. by Ellen Oh; and Open Mic: Riffs on Life Between Cultures in Ten Voices, ed. by Mitali Perkins.

Grammar, vocabulary, and usage are interwoven components of the Language Arts curriculum. The grammar program delves into sentence analysis and examines writing styles across various genres. Middle School students engage with Membean, an online vocabulary program that tailors learning experiences and tracks progress over time.

The overarching goal is to instill a lasting appreciation for literature, nurture active literacy, strong presentation skills, and the development of a distinct writing voice in our students.