English Language Arts

Students read complete and adapted versions of classic literature as presented from Amplify’s Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) curriculum.  For example, a novel study of Summer of the Mariposas, is connected to an adapted excerpt from Homer’s The Odyssey.  Reading is made accessible whether it’s already tailored for a middle school audience (e.g. pieces of Edgar Allan Poe’s poetry) and/or the teacher may further differentiate readings and materials in a customized manner.  By engaging with real-world literature, students enter into thoughtful and analytical discussions about character development, literary tropes, recurring themes, symbolism, and author commentary.

Middle school writing is linked to the reading material in English and History.  Students’ essays respond to text or defend a position with thoughtful reasons.  Writing follows Modern Language Association (MLA) formatting, complete with source documents cited.