Language Arts

Cycle Two (1st-3rd Grade)

Through reading and interacting with a wide variety of children’s literature, students will be introduced to the basics of language arts. The program will teach students to develop strong phonics, reading, and comprehension skills while fostering a love of books and the habit of reading for pleasure. Language learning requires constant interaction among speaking, listening, reading, and writing. In Cycle 2, students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend and interpret language and to communicate effectively. While learning a language requires systematic activities, it also takes place in all classroom situations.

READING

Reading skills are taught in both French and English in grades first through third. More extensive English instruction begins in the second grade. Reading skills will transfer from one language to another. The goal of reading in both languages is to develop the skills and desire to read, and ultimately the love of reading.

WRITING

Reading and writing are two inseparable activities that continually reinforce each other in Cycle 2. The production of writing with its different functions (expression, communication, memorization) is fundamental to all subjects.

GRAMMAR AND SPELLING

Students are taught in Cycle 2 how to identify the working principles of language. Language, grammar, and spelling are ways to improve speech, reading, and writing. These gradually pave the way for mastering the French and English languages.

SPEAKING AND LISTENING

During Cycle 2, oral-language activities promote good pronunciation, clear articulation, and proper intonation. Speaking activities are designed to help students organize their thoughts, transmit information, describe or explain a point of view, question or ask for an explanation, and formulate comments. Students learn to develop arguments to take part in debates.

Cycle Three (4th-5th Grade)

Through reading and discussing well-known children’s literature, students will strengthen their basic language arts skills.

READING AND VOCABULARY 

Reading continues as a priority, both as a tool for learning and as a source of personal pleasure. Students read an expanding range of texts with increasing depth and complexity. Students read a variety of literature (fiction, nonfiction, and poetry), and use a variety of strategies to increase their literal and inferential comprehension.

WRITING 

Fundamental connections between reading and writing continue to be developed. Productions increase in number and difficulty throughout the cycle. Students use writing as a tool to learn, reflect, and communicate.

GRAMMAR AND SPELLING 

In Cycle 3, students acquire the basic language, grammar, and spelling skills that lead to a gradual understanding of how language works. Skills previously introduced are continually reinforced in subsequent grades.

SPEAKING AND LISTENING 

Speaking and listening skills are introduced and reinforced throughout daily activities. These improve the precision and coherence of student oral communication.