Philosophy Statement / Overview
Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt. (Colossians 4:6). Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. (Proverbs 18:21).
Language Arts is the study of writing, grammar, and literature from the perspective of a Biblical world view. Students will gain understanding of style, structure, and meaning of literature through reading and analysis of short stories, poetry, novels, and drama. CLS graduates will be able to communicate effectively, both in writing and speaking. They will be equipped to select literature, movies, and drama for their personal enjoyment that will enhance their Christian walk throughout their lives.
To improve writing skills, students continue the study of English grammar, usage, and mechanics. Literature for 7th graders covers short stories and novels, including Island of the Blue Dolphin, Far North, Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, and The Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe. Vocabulary skills are integrated into reading units. Public speaking skills are introduced.
As well as a variety of short stories and poetry, 8th graders read novels including Ben-Hur, The Giver, and The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. Reading comprehension skills and vocabulary-building are a part of these literature units. Students study drama through reading The Miracle Worker and produce their own short plays. They critically view a movie, Into the Barrens, and write a movie review. Grammar study strengthens foundational skills for speaking and writing.
Students read selections in world literature to develop skills in critical reading, thinking, and comprehension, as well as for enjoyment and appreciation of excellence. Emphasis is placed on vocabulary development in preparation for college placement exams, including the SATs. Longer works read include Romeo and Juliet, Animal Farm, Tom Sawyer, and To Kill a Mockingbird. Ninth graders write several types of essays, an adventure story, and poetry. They continue to develop research skills and produce an interdisciplinary research paper. Students also continue the study of English grammar, usage, and mechanics in conjunction with their writing.
Tenth graders continue to read selections in world literature. Longer works read include The Count of Monte Cristo, A Tale of Two Cities, Cyrano de Bergerac, Midsummer Night's Dream, and Julius Caesar. Emphasis is placed on further vocabulary development in reading, writing, and speaking. Tenth graders continue writing several types of essays and developing research skills to produce an interdisciplinary research paper. Students attend and evaluate a professional theater production.
This class surveys the development of the literature of Great Britain from Anglo-Saxon times to the modern era. Students read works such as Robinson Crusoe, Wuthering Heights, Lord of the Flies, and Macbeth to develop skills in critical reading and comprehension, and to understand the historical roots of our language. Emphasis in this course is on developing critical thinking and writing skills through reading, discussion, and writing about the literature. Students will study grammar skills as they apply to these areas and will gain proficiency in oral communication skills through presentations of group and individual projects. Students attend and evaluate a professional theater production. This class is offered in alternate years to 11th and 12th graders.
American Literature builds on earlier foundations of composition, literary analysis, vocabulary, and critical thinking. As students encounter prose, poetry, and nonfiction from the major literary periods, they consider style and theme from a Biblical perspective and the context of the writer's life and times. They practice and further develop their ability to write clearly and effectively. Vocabulary study concentrates on building skills related to college entrance exams. Students will gain proficiency in oral communication through presentations of group and individual projects. Longer works read include The Scarlet Letter, The Great Gatsby, and In the Presence of My Enemies. Students attend and evaluate a professional theater production. This class is offered in alternate years to 11th and 12th graders.
Students in 11th and 12th grades study public speaking and practice it in many speaking situations. They learn to organize information and develop demonstration, informational, persuasive, and inspirational speeches. Through increasing challenges and practice, they gain confidence and skill. In the drama portion of this class, students learn foundational elements of acting and production. Students participate in dramatic readings, readers' theater, monologues, and group performances. Students are highly encouraged to take part in the annual drama production of the school.
In this class for juniors and seniors, students are challenged to hone their writing skills before college. Students learn MLA Style to prepare their papers and practice writing about literature that they will later use in college. Students do an extensive research project. Through a multi-genre project, students attempt many types of creative and technical writing all related to a theme of their choosing.
Honors Classes
Eligible students in grades 10-12 have an opportunity to take their Language Arts classes at an Honors level, taught from a Biblical perspective. Students choosing this course will study additional literature, participate in weekly book discussion groups, and write additional pieces based on in-depth study of literature.
