LANGUAGE ARTS

Written Expression- Through the process of writing, children can progress at their own rate.  Students develop the ability to express themselves through the following types of writing: compare/contrast, procedural, expository, narrative, descriptive, and persuasive. Students will be writing: summary paragraphs, events in sequence, responses to literature, as well as letter, poetry, and journal writing.  The 6-trait writing model is one tool that may be used to address the different writing styles.

The 6-trait writing model is a way to assess and teach writing. This model focuses on 6 qualities seen in outstanding written works. The six traits include:

• Ideas: The content, or main theme. Can be looked at as the heart of the message.

·        Organization: The internal structure of the writing.

·        Voice: The personal voice of author comes through. This gives a sense of a real person speaking.

·        Word Choice: The use of precise, colorful and rich words to communicate.

·        Sentence Fluency: The writing flows together often with a rhythm or cadence.

·        Conventions: Mechanical correctness, including spelling and grammar.

Mechanics- Through the use of Daily Fix It students practice the writing mechanics, such as punctuation, capitalization, and usage skills.  This daily practice helps to improve proofreading skills.

Spelling- Students will be expected to master a list of high frequency words, vowel pattern words from the reading, and some content area vocabulary words. Students will be assessed with spelling tests and by how effectively they apply spelling skills to their daily work.

Handwriting

Loops and other Groups is a kinesthetic writing system.  This program is a systematic program designed to teach students cursive.  Students can clearly visualize and verbalize the movement and patterns of writing while experiencing the “feel” of the letter.  This program addresses the needs of all learners including students with fine motor difficulties.