Curriculum Guide

Language Arts and Poetry

Language Arts includes handwriting, spelling, vocabulary, dictation, library instruction, reading comprehension, the mechanics of grammar and writing, and occasional journaling. Students regularly practice with attention to detail the above mentioned aspects of language arts, as well as putting the pieces together in regular writing. A love of language and writing is encouraged, though often through different subjects. For example, creative writing is taught in literature, while journaling may be assigned in language arts, history, and natural history.

Handwriting and calligraphy are part of classes in the lower school. The development of these motor skills has been shown to be salutary for the whole development of children, including the increased ability for sustained attention.

Poetry is also an important part of this class and the school's curriculum as a whole. Grammar, diction, and usage can come alive in the context of a poem, especially when that poem is memorized.

Grade 3
Texts: First Language Lessons for the Well Trained Mind Level 3 published by Peace Hill Press; Spelling Connections, Book 3 published by Zaner-Bloser; Handwriting Book 3 published by Zaner-Bloser; vocabulary words selected from the literature texts and the Wordly Wise series, various poems.

Grade 4
Texts: First Language Lessons for the Well Trained Mind Level 4 published by Peace Hill Press; Spelling Connections, Book 4 published by Zaner-Bloser; Handwriting Book 4 published by Zaner-Bloser; vocabulary words selected from the literature texts and the Wordly Wise and Vocabulary from Classical Roots series published by Educators Publishing Service, various poems.

Grade 5
Texts: Grammar and Writing 5 published by Saxon; Spelling Connections, Book 5 published by Zaner-Bloser; Handwriting Book 5 published by Zaner-Bloser; Vocabulary from Classical Roots published by Educators Publishing Service, various poems.

Grade 6
Texts: Grammar and Writing 6 by Saxon; Spelling Connections published by Zaner-Bloser; Vocabulary from Classical Roots from Educators Publishing Service, various poems.

Grade 7
Texts: Grammar and Writing 7 by Saxon; Vocabulary from Classical Roots from Educators Publishing Service, various poems.

Grade 8
Texts: Grammar and Writing 8 by Saxon; Vocabulary from Classical Roots from Educators Publishing Service, various poems.