Language Arts
Reading
The foundations of literacy and understanding are introduced in our primary classrooms where students learn the mechanics needed to become great readers. As students progress into the intermediate grades, reading stamina and extracting information become the focus. In middle school, teachers emphasize analysis and critical thought. Across grade levels, students study all genres encompassed within fiction and non-fiction texts.
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Kindergarten – 5th grade: Our teachers understand that children learn and develop at different paces and in a variety of ways. In Kindergarten through 2nd grade, literacy instruction is focused on the foundations of sounds through the Orton-Gillingham Approach which includes multisensory strategies. Our literacy teachers recognize the importance of delivering reading instruction to students in an individualized and systematic method promoting all aspects of reading: accuracy, fluency, articulation, and comprehension.
Teachers use Guided Reading in their classrooms daily to reach all students at their reading level, as well as to provide opportunities to stretch students to their full potential. Using Fountas and Pinnell benchmark assessments, teachers are able to provide literature at each student’s level and continue instruction along the continuum of literacy learning. Guided Reading is a research-based method of teaching which provides a range of literacy experiences to ensure all children receive instruction at their individual reading levels.
6th – 8th grade: In middle school, our teachers frequently incorporate document-based inquiry utilizing primary sources and current events articles along with novel studies, literature circles, poetry units, and short stories.
Writing
Our students learn how to navigate through the writing process to create informational, persuasive, narrative, and poetry pieces. Students develop their writing by utilizing Lucy Calkins Units of Study.
Grammar, Spelling and Handwriting
Spelling and Word Study
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Kindergarten – 2nd grade: Students learn about the way words sound and are spelled through the Orton-Gillingham Multisensory Approach. Children hear the words, see the words, and even touch the words all while learning the proper way to spell grade-level-appropriate words.
3rd – 8th grade: Students transition from Orton-Gillingham to word study which includes Greek and Latin roots, vocabulary, and spelling.
Grammar
Proper grammar is expected in all aspects of writing. Students incorporate appropriate grammar into daily writing activities. In addition to integrating grammar instruction within the writing process, our teachers also use direct grammar instruction such as Simple Solutions, Grammar Workshop by Sadlier, and Daily Grammar Practice (DGP).
Handwriting
Beginning in kindergarten, students learn to form letters properly with proper pencil grasp, formation, and legibility. Handwriting instruction is integrated with phonics instruction leading to positive outcomes for overall literacy development. Teachers utilize Writing Our Catholic Faith workbooks to reinforce proper handwriting skills while also reinforcing students’ faith. Cursive instruction begins in second grade.
