English

The goal of the Middle School English curriculum is to teach students to use reading and writing for their own purposes. They are encouraged to examine ideas and explore values within the context of a rich variety of literature that is particularly appropriate for them at this time in their lives. These novels, plays, myths and poetry often provide strong female protagonists or deal with coming of age themes that build confidence in articulating personal views of a given situation whether it is historical, literary or actual. Writing is central to the work of the English program. Most importantly, students learn that writing is a process that requires editing, revision and refinement. The students are encouraged not only to build their language skills but to use writing to clarify their thoughts and to communicate that which is uniquely their own.