Language Arts
	Language Arts forms the foundation of our curriculum and embodies the belief that children should be given the opportunity to be immersed in language in all of its manifestations. By focusing on the four strands of Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, we guide students toward mastery of basic language skills that will enable them to become life-long readers and to express themselves clearly in both oral and written forms. We recognize that students develop at varying rates and that the most important language learning occurs when students use language in meaningful ways. Our spiral curriculum focuses on progressions rather than the mere repetition of skills and concepts. Thus, our students develop increasing skill, flexibility, and individuality in using language.

	In the primary years, phonological awareness and the development of emergent, literal, and fluent readers is considered central to our program. Phonics and word analysis, spelling, grammar, writing skills, vocabulary development, reading comprehension, oral presentation, class discussion, and speaking and listening skills are emphasized throughout. In the upper primary grades, there is increasing emphasis on the development of critical thinking skills, inquiry, and literal and inferential comprehension of literature in a variety of genres as well as increased concentration on writing mechanics, writing fluency, spelling, editing, research, and keyboarding skills. Small class sizes allow teachers to consider each child's learning style, pace, and need for reinforcement or readiness for challenge. Such individual attention fosters a security that, in turn, leads to healthy risk-taking. Genuine self-esteem and self-reliance are the fruits. At the same time, cooperative learning groups offer both a framework for developing communication skills and a test for their effectiveness. We consider effective communication the basis for understanding all aspects of learning.