English Language Arts

Discovery students read classic literature by authors while balancing old with the new. Even though emphasis is placed on American writers, a few non-Americans receive special attention: William Shakespeare, Chinua Achebe and Anne Frank. Classroom discussions centered on readings play an essential role in helping students become critical thinkers, allowing such reading to act as a springboard into good writing. Students write essays, poetry, short stories, and research papers. Grammar, vocabulary, punctuation and sentence diagram lessons are a daily component of language arts, helping students become mature writers. Students are exposed to new vocabulary through reading and through participation in word walls. The graduating year culminates with each student writing a graduation speech that is delivered in class. Exemplary speakers are chosen to give their speeches at eighth grade commencement.