Reading, speaking, and listening skills are also stressed, as well as critical thinking. In summary, English 8 provides a more intense and higher level application of language arts concepts introduced and expanded during English 7. This course is designed for the English student who is highly motivated and who enjoys extensive exploration of the major divisions of the Language Arts area. In addition, the student has demonstrated a high level of proficiency in written expression. This fast-paced course will include study of the finer points of composition and their usefulness to the writer.
Traditional grammar is taught.
This is a shift from whole language approach. Vocabulary, grammar, and usage will be heavily stressed. A wide-ranging literary study will include various types of poetry, short stories, novels, and plays. In addition to regular classroom reading, students will read between 14 and 18 outside reading books, requiring written analysis. Homework assignments, at varying times during the year, will be heavy, and writing for publication is required.