English Fundamentals – Middle School

Not every middle school student loves reading and writing, but I think everyone can find something to love in English Fundamentals! Throughout the year, we’ll be studying a wide variety of literature, both fiction and nonfiction, and I just know you’re going to find yourself being fascinated by these stories. A shipwreck, an ancient Egyptian, a boy who has to stay hidden from almost everyone in the world . . . these are just a few of the things you’ll encounter in this course!

We begin the year with an in-depth study of the Titanic, which provides a lot of opportunities for us to discuss what is really worth pursuing in this world. After that, we read a fun novel as we learn about ancient Egypt and study the use of suspense in fiction. Students will discover the methods that authors use to create suspense in order to keep readers turning the pages. To finish the first semester, we will study a dystopian novel and explore where a person’s value comes from. This novel brings up some important questions, which we address by investigating what the Bible has to say about those issues.

In the second semester, we have more new things to learn! First, we’ll find out how one woman’s refusal to give up her seat on the bus led to a civil rights battle–and eventual victory. There were so many people who contributed to that cause, and as we evaluate their roles, we also consider how we can be change-makers in the world. Following that, students will have an opportunity to tell stories from their own lives. We’ll study various memoirs and learn what goes into the writing of a memoir. Because of the personal nature of this unit, students will be able to share their experiences and learn from each other authentically. Finally, the year will finish out with a novel that forces us to consider disaster, fear, friendship, prejudice, and–ultimately–loving cooperation.

Stories are fun to read, but the really valuable work comes when students think about issues in terms of their own lives. What is courage? What is worth fighting for? Where do you find your self-worth? These are just a few of the questions that we wrestle with together in English Fundamentals.

If you’re looking for a good foundation in middle school English, you’ve come to the right place! The literature we study provides the perfect opportunity to learn and practice the language skills that middle schoolers need. Features you’ll find in this course include practical writing instruction, a skills-based approach to reading, and grammar and spelling instruction that is applicable to real-life needs. Come and join us for an exciting adventure, as we learn about ourselves and others by studying great stories!