Middle School Departmentalization
Grades 5-8 at Grace Lutheran School are departmentalized. This means that students will have several teachers during their school day that are specialists in a particular field of study. In order to maintain a family-like atmosphere, each class also has a home-room teacher charged with monitoring the over-all academic, social, and spiritual progress of individual students as well as the class as a whole.

Literature 7/8

A variety of classroom novels and students own book choices make up literature in the 7/8th grade. Students move from concrete to abstract thinking while analyzing different styles of literature. Historical implications in novels, multi-cultural literature, and classical literature are all covered. In addition, a unit on American tall tales reinforces language and reading skills. Students choose what they read a portion of each week and discuss their reading selections in depth with dialogue journals. An author project and book reviews supplement their reading.

English 7/8

A writing workshop comprises the main component of English study. While exploring different types of writing, students choose their own topics and much of what they learn. Grammar, mechanics, styles of writing, the writing process, etc. are explored through daily mini-lessons utilizing Abeka Grammar. Quarterly evaluations, student goals and a complete writing portfolio are just some of what will contribute to students engaging in “The Writerly Life.”

Literature 5/6

The 5/6th grade reading curriculum includes several novels that are read over the course of the year. These novels cover basic language concepts as well as study and reading skills. Literature circles enhance the reading curriculum and put into practice the various skills students have learned during the year. A poetry unit introduces students to different styles of writing and word choice to broaden their overall understanding of literature. Students choose what they read a portion of each week and discuss their reading selections in depth with dialogue journals. An author project and book reviews supplement their reading

English 5/6

Learning the parts of speech, basic sentence structure and other grammar aspects highlight the language curriculum in sixth grade. Students are introduced to these concepts and explore them more in-depth as the year continues using Abeka Grammar. In addition, numerous styles of writing are covered and the basic mechanics of writing are reinforced. A research paper of the student’s choice, complete with research, note cards and MLA documentation, makes up most of the third 5th Term.

Spelling and Vocabulary

Using a wholistic reading/writing approach to the language arts spelling and vocabulary instruction occur within the context of classroom reading and writing. Spelling and vocabulary words are taken from the classroom novels and tested weekly.