English Language Arts (ELA) instruction in the Appleton Area School District includes an integration of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Other strands included are language study, media/technology, and research. Texts and materials go through a lengthy selection process. Most books chosen are recommended by a number of literary circles and/or have won various awards. In addition to choosing books on their literary merit, consideration is also given to how books fit with other courses at the specific grade level in order to incorporate an interdisciplinary flavor to the teaching of novels. Finally, of great importance is choosing books based on the ability of students to be able to identify with the characters and/or themes present in the book. By considering these connections, students are provided with relevant, very real topics. A list of approved textbooks, resources, and books for students in grades 6-12 ELA can be found in the virtual library under My School: Wisconsin > K-12 Course Requirements, Offerings & Progression.
Once a book has been chosen, a teacher has the full support of the administration in the appropriate instruction of the materials. That does not mean, however, that parents/guardians cannot express concerns about their child studying a particular selection. Should you ever have a concern about the teacher’s use of instructional materials, please discuss the matter with your child and your child’s ELA teacher. After this discussion, if you determine it appropriate to request an alternative title, that request will be honored. Editorial reviews of books are available for parent use at such online book retailers as amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.
Our goal is to provide age and content appropriate materials that allow your child to inquire, to study, and to evaluate. If you have any questions regarding the ELA curriculum and/or instructional materials, please contact your child’s ELA teacher.
