Language Arts 9

Course Description

Semester A

Language Arts 9 is an integrated curriculum. Each module contains thematically related lessons in two or more of five domains: reading and the study of literature, reading informational text, writing, speaking and listening, and language study, which includes word knowledge and grammar skills. Topics are presented in ways that help young adolescents relate literacy skills to other aspects of their lives. Writing assignments include narrative, expository, and persuasive/argumentative modes and emphasize the use of details and reasoning to support ideas. Speaking and listening lessons in Semester A emphasize collaborative discussion skills and peer review. Vocabulary development instruction is integrated into literature and informational text lessons.

Semester B

Like semester A, semester B consists of integrated modules centered on a theme or mode of study. Literature study in semester B focuses on the analysis of different forms of literature and on comparative studies of literature delivered in different media. Writing and informational text lessons guide students through the stages of research and demonstrate how to evaluate, integrate, and share the information gathered during research. Students are required to share their ideas and analysis using several different modes, including oral and multimedia presentations.

Course Requirements

Grade Level

9th Grade

Materials

None

Duration

2 Semesters

Credit Value

1.0

Prerequisites

Language Arts 8

Semester A

Major Concepts

Literary Analysis and Theme Development

Narrative Techniques and Author’s Craft

Informational Text Structures and Features

Academic Vocabulary and Word Analysis

Explanatory Writing and Research Skills Argument

Development and Persuasive Techniques

 

Semester A Syllabus

Semester B

Major Concepts

Literary Analysis

Informational Text Analysis

Explanatory Writing

Media Analysis

Argument Writing

Persuasive Speaking

 

Semester B Syllabus