English Language Arts
The English Language Arts and Reading Departments in Seaford Schools are dedicated to mastery of all aspects of literacy: reading, writing, listening, speaking, as well as an appreciation of effective inter-personal communication skills. Mastery of these skills comprises the framework for the language arts program in Seaford. Using the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards as a guide, we teach students to read, achieve fluency, comprehend and appreciate literature in all genres and non-fiction texts. We teach various forms of writing: narrative, descriptive, memoir, expository, argument, and research. We emphasize the value of close textual analysis using text-based evidence and higher-order thinking skills to master and interpret the written word. The goal of the reading and English Language Arts departments is to provide literacy skills development across the grades - mindful of the specific needs of each student. Accordingly, we offer courses, grade-level curricula, and academic intervention support services for those in need of remediation. The ultimate learning goal of our language arts program is to prepare students for college and careers.
Middle School
The English language arts curriculum at the middle school focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking through teacher-designed units of study following the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards in English Language Arts. In addition, the Heinemann Units of Study in Writing are used in grades 6-8. Over their years in middle school, students are exposed to many different genres in literature, English language grammar, and learn about the different purposes and requirements for writing and effective communication. The ultimate learning goal of the middle school language arts program is to prepare students for the English coursework and expectations at the high school level. When necessary, reading support is provided through ELA Labs and/or Learning Labs on each grade level.