English & Literature

English mastery in reading, writing, and speaking is the mark of an educated person. But these multifaceted skills require many years to reach a high level. An essential component of excellent language skills is the study of a classical language, so our Latin curriculum supports and enhances the English skills of our students. Students study English grammar and vocabulary in both English and Latin classes, beginning in 2nd Grade.

Another factor in the development of superior language skills is the study of good literature, which provides models of correct English and excellence in writing. The ear and eye are trained by constant exposure to good English usage. Students learn best by imitation.

Our classroom reading selections are carefully chosen to increase in reading difficulty each year.  Books are read slowly and thoroughly in class, accompanied by our Literature Guides.

Our English Literature Guides include our own selection of poetry. Poetry is intense and requires careful, slow, and repeated reading. Poetry requires thought and is especially effective in developing comprehension and thinking skills. Students who are properly prepared are ready to begin the study of Shakespeare in the 7th Grade.

We choose the very best literature and poetry for each age, works that model heroes, virtues, and high ideals. Our literature program does more than develop reading skills; it inspires students to love what is good and noble in life.

English grammar, usage, and composition are taught yearly. Students in grades 2-6 study from the Rod and Staff English series. In grades 7-9 we use the classic out-of print Warriner's Grammar texts.  

The ability to write with clarity, beauty, and power is further developed by our logic and rhetoric curriculum, which is an extension of English and counts as English credits.

On a more practical side, the development of a legible and attractive cursive hand is a high priority. Unless serious attention is given to penmanship in every grade and class, illegible, careless writing plagues students and teachers throughout their school years.