English Language Arts 3-Grade 8

Semester One:

• Reading Comprehension/Informational & Expository Writing
• Explaining author’s purpose through diction and syntax
• Examining the ways literary elements interact
• Analyzing plot structure
• Tracking the development of two or more themes in literature
• Determining point of view and perspective
• Identifying symbolism in literary texts
• Uncovering word meanings through context clues
• Determining the central idea of a text
• Writing effective summaries
• Utilizing parallel structure in writing
• Examining informational text structures and features
• Locating credible sources based on bias, origin, and purpose
• Avoiding plagiarism
• Citing sources correctly
• Formatting the Works Cited page
• Using signal phrases and transitions in academic writing
• Writing effective informational introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions
• Formulating thesis statements for academic writing
• Using precise language and domain-specific vocabulary
• Integrating interesting grammar to enhance voice
• Editing and revising with purpose
• Connecting the use of figurative language devices to a text’s meaning
• Identifying and correcting logical fallacies
• Using semicolons effectively
• Understanding active and passive voice

Semester One Advanced:

• Analyzing sound devices and symbolism in poetry
• Researching and writing about an American folktale
• Paraphrasing rigorous literary texts
• Connecting historical context and setting to literary texts

Semester Two:

• Reading Comprehension/Argumentative Writing/Narrative Writing
• Analyzing how rhetorical appeals and devices support an argument
• Planning and organizing an effective argument
• Identifying elements of an effective claim, counterclaim, and rebuttal
• Effectively supporting a claim with well-researched evidence
• Using elaborative details to communicate and clarify knowledge to an audience
• Analyzing how a poem’s use of structure and poetic devices affect the meaning
• Comparing archetypes across literature
• Identifying various types of narratives
• Clarifying point of view and perspective
• Tracking the development of conflict and theme
• Revising for parallel structure
• Using digital media to create a novel review
• Planning a narrative based on a plot archetype
• Using narrative techniques to enhance creative writing

Semester Two Advanced:

• Creating a persuasive presentation using rhetorical appeals and devices
• Composing a narrative poem using poetic devices
• Delivering a student-written speech based on a fictional character’s perspective