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Literacy learning (skills needed to communicate) includes the areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. While each area has specific concepts and skills that can be taught in isolation, we believe and teach an integrated model, demonstrating the connectedness of these communication skills. We also believe literacy instruction must occur throughout the day in the content areas of faith formation, science, social studies, and math.
Our writing program was developed by and is supported through the work of Lucy Calkins and the ”Teachers Reading and Writing Project” of Teachers College Columbia University. Through this K-8 program explicit writing instruction is delivered daily in a planned and sequential way, developing within student's writing skills in a variety of genre.
The goal of our reading program is to produce readers who can understand and enjoy complex texts of fiction and non-fiction. We want students who have the ability to read analytically and critically through the overwhelming amount of information available today in print, both hard copy and digital. The reading program represents a balance between word study (phonics, spelling, vocabulary), guided reading, and independent reading. Reading selections reflect classic and contemporary literature and non-fiction texts that represent “real world” applications.
Development of listening and speaking skills occur not only through formal presentations, but also in one-on-one, small group, and whole group settings. Students also develop these high value skills by working in informal collaborative groups, as they seek answers to questions; build understandings; and solve problems.
Besides faith formation, literacy education is the most important task we have. It is the key to life-long learning.
Please check back for links to specific grade levels.
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