English
	The Middle School English program develops core skills in grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, discussion, and writing through courses built on rich literary works representing a variety of genres and voices. Instructional approaches emphasize round-table discussions that train students to form and support their own responses to literature and writing assignments that balance literary analysis and formal essay writing with creative and personal pieces. Technology is incorporated into the classroom through online "chats," video projects, and wiki spaces. Outside the classroom, opportunities are provided for students to share their talents and build their performance skills through the fall Heritage Dinner, the spring coffeehouse, and School assemblies. Students are exposed to professional writers who provide inspiration and hands-on instruction through the Visiting Writers Program and are encouraged to celebrate their unique voices by submitting their work to the Middle School literary magazine Pendragon as well as to publications and contests outside the GFA community. Click on the center of the image above to view in full screen. The small white arrow on the right of the image will allow you to flip through the publication.

	English 6 This course serves as an introduction to the English curriculum, building excitement and appreciation for literature while developing a solid foundation of skills students can rely on as they progress through Middle School. In literature, students study novels, short stories, and an autobiography focused on the overarching themes of identity formation and the bridge between childhood and adulthood; students are also encouraged to read independently. In writing, students explore a variety of modes and styles, including literary analysis and creative writing (both short stories and weekly journal writing). Students review and expand their grammatical knowledge through focused D.O.L. (Daily Oral Language) exercises and use class readings to improve their vocabulary and spelling skills. Students use laptops regularly in class and are given several technology-intensive assignments throughout the year, including a multifaceted creative project based on The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Course texts: Hoot; The Adventures of Tom Sawyer; Warriors Don't Cry; selected short stories, readings, and poems; Prentice Hall Writing and Grammar, Grade 6.

	English 7 - See Humanities.

	English 8 This course builds on the skills introduced in the earlier courses while placing a much stronger emphasis on the art of writing as developed through careful planning and revision. This focus on the rewriting stage, which may include one-on-one coaching, peer editing, and individual revision, empowers students to put the finishing touches on their work to create greatly improved final drafts. Students also work to expand their repertoire of styles as they incorporate readings, class discussions, and personal experiences into their writing. Using a variety of texts focused on the themes of freedom and rebellion, the eighth grade course blends well-known classics with new contemporary works to help young readers appreciate fine writing through the years as they improve their close reading skills. Grammar and vocabulary are also integral to the course to help students develops as writers. Expository efforts (such as formal analytical and persuasive essays) are balanced with creative writing opportunities to help students develop their own voices. In particular, the first term culminates with students writing original short stories and the second with composing letters of opinion to newspapers or magazines. Students complete the year with increased knowledge, competence, and confidence in their reading and writing skills to fully prepare them for their Upper School years. Course texts: Selected short stories; Animal Farm; A Midsummer Night’s Dream; A Tale of Two Cities; Black Ice; selected poetry; Prentice Hall Writing and Grammar, Grade 8.