Integrated Language Arts – Memorization, Spelling & Vocabulary (St. Therese Wednesdays Session C 10:40-11:25 a.m.) 1st-8th

This engaging homeschool language arts class is designed to strengthen students' spelling, vocabulary, and memorization skills while integrating key themes from this year’s history, literature, and science studies. Through carefully selected word lists, contextual vocabulary exercises, and meaningful poetry recitation, students will develop a deeper understanding of language and improve their writing, reading, and verbal expression.

Spelling Scholars: Throughout the class, the Spelling Scholars program is integrated to reinforce spelling skills. Students will test over weekly spelling words drawn from the level you as the parent recommend from Natural Speller by Kathryn Stout. Spelling practice at home can include phonics-based exercises, dictation, and creative writing activities, along with the practice provided. This ensures consistent practice and improvement in spelling.

Note: Spelling is recommended only for students reading at an upper 2nd grade or early 3rd grade level. Once proficient, students should start with Spelling Level 1-2.

Memorized Poetry: Students will learn and recite poetry that connects with historical and religious themes, reinforcing comprehension, rhythm, and expressive reading. Poetry selections will enhance cultural literacy and appreciation of literary beauty. Memorizing poetry offers numerous benefits, enhancing language development, memory, and critical thinking while fostering a love for literature and the arts. It strengthens vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension, while also improving concentration and recall. Additionally, poetry recitation builds confidence in public speaking and communication, helping students develop clear articulation and expressive delivery. Emotionally and intellectually, poetry nurtures empathy, creativity, and analytical skills by exposing students to diverse themes and perspectives. It also supports interdisciplinary learning by reinforcing concepts from history, science, and literature in a memorable way. Ultimately, poetry memorization provides both academic enrichment and lifelong inspiration, making it a valuable component of a well-rounded education. Poetry memorization will be taught in the classroom, but must be practiced and reinforced at home. Students should spend about 10 minutes per day on their poetry memorization.

• Natural Speller, Kathryn Stout (1 per family for 1st-8th grades. Used works great.)
• Vocabulary Cartoons: SAT Word Power, Sam Burchers (1 per family for 5th-8th grades)