The development of language and literacy begins in our pre-kindergarten and kindergarten classrooms as students are offered the foundation and readiness skills to help them develop as emerging readers, writers and effective communicators. Surrounded by print and exposed to engaging literature, students develop a love for stories. Instruction in letter formation and sound-symbol recognition leads to early reading and writing skills. Understanding that the acquisition of language and literacy is a developmental process, we take each child where he is, offering support and enrichment as needed.
Daily language arts instruction in the Lower School takes place in listening, speaking, reading, and writing as students are immersed in these areas. Specific lessons focus on writing, spelling, vocabulary, handwriting, grammar and usage, reading, phonics and literature. The goal of the language arts program is to develop literate young men who can communicate on a high level in both verbal and written form. Instruction takes place in both formal and informal settings, utilizing individualized, small group, and large group instruction. Skills are reinforced across the curriculum.
Students learn to read through a balanced program that merges phonics instruction with high interest literature. Specific skill instruction includes vocabulary development, decoding strategies, comprehension, research and study skills. We acknowledge that students need to develop specific reading skills in order to access and digest information. At the same time it is our goal to foster a love of reading in each individual.
Writing readiness and writing skills are emphasized throughout the Pre and Lower Schools as the boys learn how to express their thoughts in writing. Whether through expository writing, research reports, creative stories, poetry, or journal writing, students learn the joy and importance of communicating their ideas effectively to others. This is supported by the regular instruction of writing mechanics and editing skills. Students learn handwriting and keyboarding in order to facilitate the writing process.
Students develop their listening and speaking skills across the curriculum in daily instruction. Our weekly assemblies offer students opportunities to learn and practice the important skill of public speaking. By the completion of Lower School, students should have a strong foundation in listening, speaking, reading, and writing to carry them into the language-rich curriculum presented in the Middle School.