Grade 7
Writing
In addition to creative writing and essays, students will learn about parts of speech, and sentence and paragraph structure, as well as strategies to improve writing skills, such as grammar and spelling. Students will learn the writing process, including prewriting, drafting, revising, editing and publishing in a writing workshop setting. Computers are used to enhance the writing program.
Reading
The textbook for Grade 7 language arts is Sightlines. Students will read a variety of poems and short stories from this anthology and other sources. Students will also read novels in the settings of whole class novel studies, literature circles and/or independent reading. Some of these novels may include Danny's Run, Wild Dog Summer, The Grizzly, Crisis on Conshelf Ten or Tuck Everlasting. There are several other novels available, as well.
Public Speaking
In Grade 7, students will practice public speaking through impromptu speeches and learn parliamentary debating. Public speaking is also practiced in a variety of other ways, such as class presentations and book talks.
Grade 8
Process Writing
Students will look at a variety of reasons for writing, and sample and explore the various forms and methods that aid in managing ideas and information. Students will have many opportunities to create writings from a personal perspective.
Short Stories
In this unit, students will examine a variety of short stories to explore and discover thoughts, ideas, feelings and experiences and will then extend and clarify their understanding. Students will also respond personally and critically to each story through written and oral responses.
Research Activities
Students will have the opportunity to combine this unit with their social studies assignments, and will review computer research, how research can be accumulated, and what variety of resources is available within and outside the school. Students will be shown how to correctly set up a research paper. A combined effort between the library department and the computer technology centre will be arranged prior to the start of this unit
Novel Study
Using a variety of genres, students will present a section of a novel to the class, either working independently or in groups. After the novel has been read, the corresponding video will be available to be seen. There will be a novel test and unit assignment.
Poetry
A sampling of different types of poetry from a variety of poets will be shared with students; select samples from different eras, including modern day. Students have the opportunity to create and share their own poetry. There will be a unit assignment worth 25 marks.
Debating
Students will learn the techniques involved in public speaking and debating. They will develop work to enhance the clarity and artistry of their verbal and written communication in this unit. Debates will be held involving pertinent issues and topics of interest using formal proceedings. Toastmasters are willing to visit classrooms to assist in this unit. As well, a visit to legislature or the law courts may assist in illustrating techniques. Both the teacher and students will grade debates.
U Teach It
Students have the opportunity to demonstrate an activity they enjoy and/or are proficient at to the class. The goal of this unit is for students to transfer their knowledge in a “how-to” sense to the class. It is a chance for them to celebrate their own learning and ability. They will be graded both by their peers and the teacher.
Freewrites
In this class, the teacher will give the class a starting sentence or an issue to write about. In some instances, students will have the opportunity to write about their own ideas or experiences. The balance between these two practices will be a 50/50 ratio. Students will write for the entire class period.
Spelling and Grammar
One class per cycle will be used to develop student skills in the area of spelling and grammar. The study of spelling and grammar in isolation may not be in the best interest of all students. Therefore, the learning that occurs in these classes will be integrated into classroom assignments. Spelling Connections will be used as the main textbook for spelling and grammar.
Silent Reading Class
Every Friday class will be dedicated to silent reading. Students will be expected to have in their possession a novel that they will read for the entire duration of the class. If students do not have a book for this class, they may select a book from the bookshelf at the back of the class; however, the book must be signed out on the sheets provided on the bookshelf. Students will complete three book reviews throughout the year based on novels they have read through silent reading period.
Grade 9
There are six arts of language arts that fall under the umbrella of five general outcomes for Grade 9, as mandated by the provincial government. The six arts and five general outcomes are brought together under the title, A Foundation for Implementation.
Six arts of language arts