Explore Our Curriculum

English

The Middle School English courses are designed to foster critical thinking and develop students’ communication skills. Through the study of fiction and nonfiction web sources, written assignments, collaborative projects, and guided discussion, students learn to craft and defend their points of view. Emphasis is placed on writing, speaking, grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills. Through a progression of essays, research papers, and other assignments, students learn how to craft an effective piece of writing, from the development of a thesis statement to the use of text structures employed in analytical writing. Assignments also include poetry and narrative, expository, and descriptive prose.

Student writing is enhanced by the formal study of grammar and vocabulary, and students are expected to apply these lessons to their writing. Class discussions, text-based assessments, group work, and active/annotated reading are some of the ways the Middle School English curriculum provides students with the foundation and tools needed to be successful at the Upper School and become lifelong learners.

  • English 6

    The sixth grade English curriculum focuses on the reading comprehension and writing process as well as grammar, oral and nonverbal communication skills, and vocabulary skills. Writing mechanics and vocabulary practice is completed online through programs such as Membean and NoRedInk. Both programs use algorithms to individualize content tailored to each student's specific need or goal. Daily oral and nonverbal communication skills are honed through various techniques that focus on civil discourse and discussions pulled from quote-based content. Our mentor texts explore various genres of fiction which engage and excite the student mind to enjoy reading. While exploring these works of craft, specific skills are developed such as annotation, citation, context meaning, figurative language, and general reading comprehension. 

  • English 7

    The seventh grade English curriculum integrates language art skills with the study of world cultures. Students read literature from around the world, enhancing their study of these same global regions in their World Cultures class. Students learn to recognize elements of fiction such as plot, character, and more, by analyzing novels and short stories, along with writing their own works. Grammar and mechanics of writing in various genres are woven into daily activities. Students utilize online programs IXL Language Arts and Membean to practice specific grammar skills and build vocabulary. Projects include re-enacting scenes from plays and adapting stories into modern versions. Students also practice weekly creative writing in journals. Technology is fully integrated into all aspects of the curriculum. Students learn to navigate online systems such as Google Docs and Google Drive. They also learn to use apps such as iMovie and Keynote.

  • English 8

    The eighth grade English curriculum works in conjunction with the American History course, centering on a thematic study of major historical events and decades. Throughout the year, students will strengthen their reading and writing skills, focusing on critical analysis of texts and ideas. Students will study various texts to better understand form, style and purpose, and understand that all texts have a dominant reading with embedded messages, perspectives, and biases.  Students will develop a better understanding of their role as readers in the interpretations of given texts.  Students will respond to ideas and texts in different modes of communication (such as analytical essays, news articles, monologues, speeches, and creative writing).  Throughout the year, students will also engage in reading and writing workshops, independent reading, and vocabulary.

The Out-of-Door Academy

LOWER SCHOOL |  Historic Siesta Key Campus  |  Pre-K – Grade 5
444 Reid Street, Sarasota, FL 34242  |  941-349-3223  |  Fax: 941-349-8133

LOWER SCHOOL |  Lower School Campus on Clark Road  |  Pre-K – Grade 1
11011 Clark Rd, Sarasota, FL 34241   |  941-349-3223

MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOLS  |  Uihlein Campus in Lakewood Ranch  |  Grades 6 – 8 |  Grades 9 – 12
5950 Deer Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240  |  941-349-3223  |  Fax: 941-907-1251
The Out-of-Door Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, physical ability, religion, sex, age, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin.
The Out-of-Door Academy is an equal opportunity employer.

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