Language Arts Curriculum
We have an integrated curriculum in Language Arts. A concerted effort is made to integrate reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills into all subject areas. As our basic texts, we use Silver Burdett and Ginn World of Reading Series in Kindergarten, McMillan/McGraw-Hill Spotlight on Literacy in Grades 1 through 5, and McDougal Littell Literature Series in Grades 6-8. Grades K-2 implement a strong phonics approach to reading, as well as Guided Reading instruction with leveled books, and novels are used in addition to the basal in grades 2-8. A formal, structures grammar series (Voyages in English, Loyola) is used in Grades 3 - 8 to insure that a continuum of skills is taught throughout the grades.
A St. Simon Writing Curriculum has been developed to ensure a developmental approach to writing. Correct usage and mechanics are required in both spoken and written contexts. The formal teaching of spelling is an integral part of our Language Arts instruction.
These are highlights of our language arts curriculum. For detailed curriculum by topic, see the California State Board of Education K-12 Content Standards.
Kindergarten
Students know about letters, words, and sounds using a phonics approach. They apply this knowledge to read simple sentences and books.
Grades 1 through 5
Students read and understand grade-level-appropriate material. They draw upon a variety of comprehension strategies. Students write clear and coherent sentences and paragraphs that develop a central idea. Students read and respond to a wide variety of significant works of children's literature. They distinguish between the structural features of the text and the literary terms or elements (e.g., theme, plot, setting, characters).
Students progress through the stages of the writing process with each grade-level. The writing exhibits the students' awareness of the audience and purpose. Essays contain formal introductions, supporting evidence, and conclusions. Students write compositions that describe and explain familiar objects, events, and experiences. Vocabulary development accompanies writing and reading activities.
Grades 6, 7 and 8
St. Simon emphasizes grammar. Sentence diagrams are used beginning in 6th grade. Vocabulary development proceeds.
Other areas are word analysis and fluency; reading comprehension; literary response and analysis; writing strategies; writing applications (genres and their characteristics); literary criticism.
Students deliver focused, coherent presentations that convey ideas clearly and relate to the background and interests of the audience. They evaluate the content of oral communication.