Advanced Language Arts is taught in classes that include regular language arts students. Rigorous writing assignments and book studies are provided for advanced students in individual and small group settings. Our success with this method has fostered higher than average levels of academic growth in our students for several years running. The average growth of Casey students' scores on the CSAP writing test is more than three times the BVSD average. This is especially true for boys who are underrepresented in Advanced Language Arts classes where there is an application process.
K07 Language Arts 6th Grade Advanced
Level: Grade 6
Course Length: Year
Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation and personal writing sample
This rigorous version of 6th Grade Language Arts provides an enriching experience at an accelerated pace. The course covers the regular curriculum but with added depth and complexity. The major components covered are composition, grammar, vocabulary development and literature study. Through the use of a variety of materials and instructional strategies, students develop and enhance their reading, writing, listening and critical thinking skills.
K12 Language Arts 7th Grade Advanced
Level: Grade 7
Course Length: Year
Prerequisite: Recommendation of 6th grade teacher
This rigorous version of 7th Grade Language Arts requires a passion for both reading and writing. All lessons are standards-based. Several novels from different genres are covered, along with required writing assignments. These may include persuasion, expository, descriptive, narrative and essay formats. Students write a research paper. A variety of short stories, as well as poetry reading and writing, are covered.
K32 Language Arts 8th Grade Advanced
Level: Grade 8
Course Length: Year
Prerequisite: Recommendation of 7th grade teacher
This rigorous version of 8th Grade Language Arts follows the standards and strands of the regular class. It is designed for the student who enjoys the love of reading, discussion and analysis, who thinks critically, has strong writing and grammar skills and is self-motivated. Emphasis is placed on researching and presenting topics connecting American literature with the American historical experience, analyzing literature and generally expanding and refining personal language use. The class is designed to prepare students for language arts honor courses at the high school level.