Literature

This program is designed to foster an appreciation for quality literature and to hone reading skills, including comprehension. Teachers support students’ critical thinking abilities by emphasizing abstract interpretations of works read as well as concrete recall of facts and details. Using a multisensory approach while studying novels, students learn to identify and gain insight from literary elements. The skills work is an integral part of the program, building on students’ strengths while teaching specific strategies to ameliorate weaknesses. Vocabulary development and writing in response to literature are integral parts of all literature classes. Representative texts include: Walk Two Moons, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, The Watsons go to Birmingham — 1963, Crash, Maroo of the Winter Caves, Al Capone Does My Shirts and Freak the Mighty.