HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

WRITING/GRAMMAR CURRICULUM

September 2010
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade K Unit 1 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Creativity and Innovation Flexibility and Adaptability

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Productivity and Accountability
Communication and Collaboration Leadership and Responsibilty
Essential How do we live, work, and play together?
How do children get to school??
Question(s) / How do school children work and play together?
Enduring How do families cooperate?
How do people in a community cooperate?
Understandings What do you like to do with your friends?
How do machines help people work?
Unit/Content The Little School Bus The Little School Bus
We Are So Proud! We Are So Proud
Plaidypus Lost Plaidypus Lost
Miss Bindergarten Takes a Field Trip Miss Bindergarten Takes a Field Trip
Smash! Crash! Smash! Crash!
Dig Dig Digging Dig Dig Digging
Writing Conventions
Skills / Song Say Our Names
Objectives Invitation Write Our Names
Poem
Nouns for People/Animals
Instructions
Caption
Nouns for Places/Things
Writing Process: Personal Narrative Speaking/Listening
Follow Directions
Respond to Literature: Drama
Announcements/Messages
Weekly Assessments
Assessments Baseline Group Tests
My Skills Buddy Workbook
Unit Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
We Are So Proud! Plaidypus Lost
Connections Miss Bindergarten Takes a Field Trip

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! Interactive Sound/Spelling Cards
Vocabulary Activities Decodable eReaders Grammar Jammer
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade K Unit 2 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Information Literacy
Creativity and Innovation Social and Cross-Cultural Skills
Communication and Collabortion Flexibility and Adaptability
Essential How are animals and plants unique?
How are flowers unique?
Question(s) / What can we learn about nature when we look closely?
Enduring What special animals live in the grasslands?
What unique thing does a bear do in the winter?
Understandings What kind of home does an animal need?
How are real and make-believe plants alike and different?
Unit/Content Flowers Flowers
Nature Spy Nature Spy
Animal Babies in Grasslands Animal Babies in Grasslands
Bear Snores On Bear Snores On
A Bed for the Winter A Bed for the Winter
Jack and the Beanstalk Jack and the Beanstalk
Writing Conventions
Skills / Label Nouns for More Than One
Objectives List Proper Nouns
Notes Adjectives for Color/Shapes
Poem
Caption
Adjectives for Sizes/Numbers
Writing Process: Story Adjectives for Opposites
Speaking/Listening
Listen for Sequence and Directions
Listen for Setting and Plot
Give a Description
Weekly Assessments
Assessments Baseline Group Tests
My Skills Buddy Workbook
Unit Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Flowers
Connections Nature Spy
Animal Babies in Grasslands
A Bed for the Winter
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! Interactive Sound/Spelling Cards
Vocabulary Activities Decodable eReaders Grammar Jammer
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade K Unit 3 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Information, Communications and Technological Literacy

Flexibility and Adaptability
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Information Literacy
Media Literacy
Initiative and Self Direction
Essential How do changes affect us?
How does a panda change in its first year of life?
Question(s) / What new things can you do as you get older?
Enduring How is life different today from life hundreds of years ago?
What happens when animals change?
Understandings How are things we use today different from things used long ago?
What causes us to change the way we feel?
Unit/Content Little Panda Little Panda
Little Quack Little Quack
George Washington Visits George Washington Visits
Farfallina and Marcel Farfallina and Marcel
Then and Now Then and Now
The Lion and the Mouse The Lion and the Mouse
Writing Conventions
Skills / Summary Verbs-then and now, that add –s, for now
Objectives Invitation and the future
Persuasive Statement Meaningful Word Groups
Caption Sentences
Lisa Speaking/Listening
Writing Process: Personal Narrative Respond to Literature: Drama
Sequence
Recite a Rhyme
Oral Presentation
Message/Letter
Ask and Answer Questions
Weekly Assessments
Assessments Baseline Group Tests
My Skills Buddy Workbook
Unit Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
George Washington Visits Littls Panda
Connections Then and Now Farfallina and Marcel

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! Interactive Sound/Spelling Cards
Vocabulary Activities Decodable eReaders Grammar Jammer
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade K Unit 4 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Leadership and Responsibility Social and Cross Cultural Skills
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flexibility and Adaptability
Communication and Colloboration Creativity and Innovation
Essential Where will our adventures take us?
What can we learn from our adventures?
Question(s) / What is a lucky adventure?
Enduring What adventures can animals have?
How can an adventure cause trouble?
Understandings What would it be like to have an Antarctic adventure?
What kind of adventures can we have in the city?
Unit/Content Rooster’s Off to See the World Rooster’s Off to See the World
My Lucky Day My Lucky Day
One Little Mouse One Little Mouse
Goldilocks and the Three Bears Goldilocks and the Three Bears
If You Could Go to Antarctica If You Could Go to Antarctica
Abuela Abuela
Writing Conventions
Skills / Directions Naming Parts
Objectives Poem Sentences Capital Letters and Periods
Description Pronouns I and me
Lisa Speaking/Listening
Informal Letter Give Directions
Writing Process:List Compare and Contrast
Listen for Sequence, to a poem, for Story
Elements:Character
Discuss Authors and Illustrators
Weekly Assessments
Assessments Baseline Group Tests
My Skills Buddy Workbook
Unit Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Abuela If You Could Go to Antartica
Connections
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! Interactive Sound/Spelling Cards
Vocabulary Activities Decodable eReaders Grammar Jammer
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade K Unit 5 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Social and Cross Cultural Skills Communication and Colloboration
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Creativity and Innovation
Initiative and Self Direction
Essential How do people and things get from here to there?
What are different ways of going places?
Question(s) / What kinds of transportation help us in an emergency?
Enduring What kinds of transportation help people do their jobs?
How kind of work do trains do?
Understandings How do people in different parts of the world travel?
How do children around the world get to school?
Unit/Content Max Takes the Train Max Takes the Train
Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!
Trucks Roll! Trucks Roll!
The Little Engine That Could The Little Engine That Could
On the Move! On the Move!
This is the Way We Go to School This is the Way We Go to School
Writing Conventions
Skills / Caption Questions
Objectives Rhyme Prepositions
Poem Nouns
Formal Letter Verbs
Invitation Speaking/Listening
Writing Process: How-to Report Ask and Answer Questions
Drama: respond to Literature
Discuss Literary Elements: Plot
Sequence
Oral Presentations: Description
Weekly Assessments
Assessments Baseline Group Tests
My Skills Buddy Workbook
Unit Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Mayday! Mayday!
Connections Trucks Roll!
On the Move!
This is the Way We Go to School

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! Interactive Sound/Spelling Cards
Vocabulary Activities Decodable eReaders Grammar Jammer
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade K Unit 6 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Leadership and Responsibility Communication and Collaboration

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Initiative and Self Direction
Creativity and Innovation Productivity and Accountability
Essential What are different ways of building?
How is a school built?
Question(s) / What tools do you need to build things?
Enduring How do beavers build their homes?
What can friends build together?
Understandings Who helps to build a house?
How do ants build their nests?
Unit/Content Building with Dad Building with Dad
Old MacDonald had a Woodshop Old MacDonald had a Woodshop
Building Beavers Building Beavers
Allistair and Kip’s Great Adventure Allistair and Kip’s Great Adventure
The House that Tony Lives In The House that Tony Lives In
Ants and Their Nests Ants and Their Nests
Writing Conventions
Skills / List Pronouns I and me
Objectives Song Prepositional Phrases
Rhyme Sentences-Telling, Questions, Exclamations,
Poem Complete
Writing Process: Report Speaking/Listening
Recite Language
Discuss Fact and Opinion
Discuss Literary Elements: Character, Setting
Oral Presentations: Book Report
Weekly Assessments
Assessments Baseline Group Tests
My Skills Buddy Workbook
Unit Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Building Beavers
Connections Ants and Their Nests

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! Interactive Sound/Spelling Cards
Vocabulary Activities Decodable eReaders Grammar Jammer
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 1 Unit 1: Animals, Tame and Wild –Vol.1 &2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Speaking &
Listening
Standards
21st Century Creativity and Innovation
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Flexibility and Adaptability
Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills
How are people and animals important to one another?
Essential What do pets need?
Question(s) / Who helps animals?
How do animals help people?
Enduring How do wild animals take care of their babies?
Understandings Which wild animals live in our neighborhood?
What can we learn about wild animals by watching them?
Sam, Come Back! Sam, Come Back!
Unit/Content Pig in a Wig Pig in a Wig
The Big Blue Ox The Big Blue Ox
A Fox and a Kit A Fox and a Kit
Get the Egg! Get the Egg!
Animal Park Animal Park

Writing: Conventions
Skills / Story-Trait: Voice Sentences- subjects and predicates, eclarative,
Objectives Fantasy Story-Trait: Conventions interrogative and exclamatory
Short Poem-trait: Sentences Listening/Speaking
Personal Narrative-Trait: Voice Ask questions
Realistic Story-Trait: Organization Share information and ideas
Writing for Tests-Trait: Focus/Ideas Give introductions
Research Skills Give directions
Selecting books, Media center resources,
picture dictionary, reading a chart, lists and
notes
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Science: A Fox and A Kit Animal Park
Interdisciplinary
Connections
Concept Talk Video Envision It! Animations Big Question Video
Technology Sing with Me Animations eReaders eSelections
Integrations Story Sort Grammar Jammer Leveled Reader Database
Online Journal Vocabulary Activities Decodable Readers
Interactive Sound-Spelling Cards
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 1 Unit 2: Communities –Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Creativity and Innovation
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Flexibility and Adaptability
Initiative and Self Direction
Productive and Accountability
Leadership and Responsibility
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills
What is a community?
Essential What does a family do together?
Question(s) / How is a school a community?
Who works to make our community a nice place?
Enduring How do animal communities work together to survive?
Understandings How are plant and animal communities important to each other?
How is an insect community like a community of people?
A Big Fish for Max A Big Fish for Max
Unit/Content The Farmer in the Hat The Farmer in the Hat
Who Works Here? Who Works Here?
The Big Circle The Big Circle
Life in the Forest Life in the Forest
Honey Bees Honey Bees

Writing *Conventions
Skills / Friendly Letter-Trait: Organization Common and Proper Nouns-days, months,
Objectives Brief Composition-Trait: Sentences holidays, special titles
Explanation-Trait: Conventions Nouns in Sentences
Poem-Trait: Organization Speaking/Listening
Description- Trait: Voice Relate an Experience in Sequence
Writing for Tests- Trait: Focus/Ideas Share Information and Ideas
Research Skills Give Announcements
Parts of a Book Informal Conversations
Interview Share Information and Ideas
Maps Follow Directions
Periodical and Newsletter
Alphabetical Order in an Index
Picture Dictionary
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test Weekly Tests
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Social Studies: The Farmer in the Hat Science: Life in the Forest
Interdisciplinary Who Works Here? Honey Bees
Connections
Concept Talk Video Envision It! Animations Big Question Video
Technology Sing with Me Animations eReaders/ESelections Interactive Sound/Spelling cards
 Grade 1 Unit 2: Communities –Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Story Sort Grammar Jammer Leveled Reader Database
Integrations Online Journal Vocabulary Activities Decodable Readers
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 1 Unit 3: Changes –Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Creativity and Innovation
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Flexibility and Adaptability
Initiative and Self Direction
Productive and Accountability
Social and Cross- Cultural Skills
What is changing in our world?
Essential How do places change?
Question(s) / What do we learn as we grow and change?
How can we learn about animals as they change?
Enduring What changes happen in a garden?
Understandings What changes can be seen in nature?
What do animals do when seasons change?
A Place to Play A Place to Play
Unit/Content Ruby in Her Own Time Ruby in Her Own Time
The Class Pet The Class Pet
Frog and Toad Together Frog and Toad Together
I’m a Caterpillar I’m a Caterpillar
Where are my Animal Friends? Where are my Animal Friends?

Writing Conventions
Skills / Realistic Story-Trait: Organization Action Verbs
Objectives Comments About a Story- Trait: Voice Verbs that add and do not add–s
Writing for Tests: Trait: Conventions Verbs for Past and Future
Lists -Trait: Sentences Verbs Am, Is, Are, Was, Were
Captions and Pictures- Trait: Focus/Ideas Contractions with Not
Play Scene- Trait: Sentences Speaking/Listening
Research Skills Relate an Experience in Sequence
Interview Share Information and Ideas
Glossary Give Descriptions
Graphs and Diagrams Poetry Presentation
Classifying and Categorizing Give Announcements
My Computer
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Science: I’m a Caterpillar Social Studies: A Place to Play
Interdisciplinary
Connections
Concept Talk Video Envision It! Animations Big Question Video
Technology Sing with Me Animations eReaders /eSelections Interactive Sound/Spelling cards
Story Sort Grammar Jammer Leveled Reader Database
 Grade 1 Unit 3: Changes –Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Online Journal Vocabulary Activities Decodable Readers
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 1 Unit 4: Treasures –Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Creativity and Innovation
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Flexibility and Adaptability
Productive and Accountability
Leadership and Responsibility
What do we treasure?
Essential How can a surprise be a treasure?
Question(s) / How can a story be a treasure?
What treasures can we find in our country?
Enduring Why do we treasure special places?
Understandings What treasures can we share at home?
What treasures can we share with neighbors?
Mama’s Birthday Present Mama’s Birthday Present
Unit/Content Cinderella Cinderella
A Trip to Washington, D.C. A Trip to Washington, D.C.
A Southern Ranch A Southern Ranch
Peter’s Chair Peter’s Chair
Henry and Mudge and Mrs. Hopper’s House Henry and Mudge and Mrs. Hopper’s House

Writing Conventions
Skills / Friendly Letter-Trait: Organization Adjectives-colors, shapes, size, what kind, how
Objectives Invitation- Trait: Word Choice many, articles, comparing
Descriptive Poem-Trait: Focus/Ideas Speaking/Listening
Writing for Tests-Trait: Sentences Give Descriptions
Thank-You Note-Trait: Conventions Share Information and Ideas
Directions-Trait: Organization Poetry Presentation
Research Skills Purposes of Media
Interview
Table/Chart
Bar Graph
Glossary/Alphabetical Order
E-Mail
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Wrokbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: A Trip to Washington, D.C.
Interdisciplinary
Connections
 Grade 1 Unit 4: Treasures –Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Concept Talk Video Envision It! Animations Big Question Video
Technology Sing with Me Animations eReaders/eSelections Interactive Sound-Spelling Cards
Integrations Story Sort Grammar Jammer Leveled Reader Database
Online Journal Vocabulary Activities Decodable Readers
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 1 Unit Five: Great Ideas –Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Creativity and Innovation
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Flexibility and Adaptability
Initiative and Self Direction
Productive and Accountability
Leadership and Responsibility
What difference can a great idea make?
Essential When does a problem need a clever solution?
Question(s) / How can we look at things in a different way?
How do we solve mysteries?
Enduring How can a great idea make our lives easier?
Understandings How can a great idea change the way we live?
What can happen when someone has a new idea?
Tippy-Toe Chick, Go! Tippy-Toe Chick, Go!
Unit/Content Mole and the Baby Bird Mole and the Baby Bird
Dot & Jabber Dot & Jabber
Simple Machines Simple Machines
Alexander Graham Bell: A Great Inventor Alexander Graham Bell: A Great Inventor
The Stone Garden The Stone Garden

Writing Conventions
Skills / Animal Fantasy-Trait: Voice Imperative Sentences
Objectives Letter to a Character-Trait: Voice Pronouns
Questions-Trait: Word Choice Adverbs
Persuasive Ad-Trait: Focus/Ideas Prepositions and Prepositional Phrases
Writing for Tests- Trait: Sentences Speaking/Listening
Poem- trait: Conventions Techniques in Media
Research Skills Respond to Media
Reference Sources/Take Notes Share Information and Ideas
Dictionary/Encyclopedia
Picture Graphs
Reading a Web Page/Text Features
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Wrokbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: Alexander Graham Bell: A Great Inventor Science: Simple Machines
Interdisciplinary
Connections
Concept Talk Video Envision It! Animations Big Question Video
Technology Sing with Me Animations eReaders/eSelections Interactive Sound-Spelling Cards
Integrations Story Sort Grammar Jammer Leveled Reader Database
Online Journal Vocabulary Activities Decodable Readers
 Grade 1 Unit Five: Great Ideas –Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 1 Unit R: My World –6 Weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Creativity and Innovation
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Flexibility and Adaptability
Initiative and Self Direction
Productive and Accountability
Leadership and Responsibility
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills
What is all around me?
Essential What is around us at home?
Question(s) / Who is in our family?
What is outside our door?
Enduring What can we do with our neighborhood friends?
Understandings What is around us at school?
What can we see around our neighborhood?
Sam Sam
Unit/Content Snap! Snap!
Tip and Tam Tip and Tam
The Big Top The Big Top
School Day School Day
The Farmers Market The Farmers Market

Writing Conventions
Skills / Handwriting m,s,t,c,p,n,w,j,v,,r,l,d,f,b,I,y,z Sentences
Objectives Research Skills* Adjectives
Parts of a Book Verbs
Signs/ Traffic and Map Symbols Nouns: Places, People, Animals, Things
Calendar
Using a Library
Weekly Assessments D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly
Unit R Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Interdisciplinary
Connections
Concept Talk Video Envision It! Animations Big Question Video
Technology Sing with Me Animations eReaders/ eSelections
Integrations Story Sort Grammar Jammer Leveled Reader Database
Online Journal Vocabulary Activities Decodable Readers
Interactive Sound-Spelling Cards
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM
Grade 2 Unit 1: Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.
Standards
Creative and Innovation
st Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
21 Century Communication and Collaboration
Themes Initiative and Self Direction\
Social and Cross Cultural Skills.
What can we learn from exploring new places and things?
Essential What can we learn by exploring different communities?
Question(s) / Why would anyone want to explore space?
What can we discover by exploring nature?
Enduring What can we learn by exploring the desert?
Understandings How does exploration help us find answers?

The Twin Club The Twin Club

Unit/Content Exploring Space with an Astronaut Exploring Space with an Astronaut
Henry and Mudge and the Starry Night Henry and Mudge and the Starry Night
A Walk in the Desert A Walk in the Desert
The Strongest One The Strongest One
Writing Conventions
Skills / Personal Narrative- Trait: Conventions Sentences-subjects, predicates, declarative,
Objectives Expository Nonfiction- Trait: Sentences exclamatory, interrogative, and imperative
Writing for Tests- Trait: Organization Review Unit 1 Conventions
Brief Report- Trait: Word Choice Listening/Speaking
Play Scene- Trait: Conventions Why We Speak and Listen
Writing Process- Personal Narrative Be a Good Speaker and Listener
Research Skills Different Purposes of Media
Media Center/Library Narrate in Sequence
Reference and Personal Sources Dramatic Interpretation
Table of Contents/Title Page
Maps
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: The Twin Club Science: Exploring Space with an Astronaut
Interdisciplinary Best Friend for Francis Henry Mudge and the Starry Night
Connections A Walk in the Desert
The Strongest One
Concept talk video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers
Envision It! Animations
Vocabulary Activities
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 2 Unit 2: Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.

21st Century Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross –Cultural Skills
How can we work together?
Essential What can we do in a dangerous situation?
Question(s) / How has working together changed history?
How can we work together to meet people’s needs?
Enduring Why is it a good idea to work together?
Understandings How can we work together to solve problems?

Tara and Tiree, Fearless Friends Tara and Tiree, Fearless Friends
Unit/Content Abraham Lincoln Abraham Lincoln
.Scarcity .Scarcity
The Bremen Town Musicians The Bremen Town Musicians
One Good Turn Deserves Another One Good Turn Deserves Another
Writing Conventions
Skills / Narrative Nonfiction-Trait: Voice Nouns-Proper, Singular, Plural, Possessive
Objectives Biography-Trait: Focus/Ideas Speaking/Listening
Writing for Tests- Trait: Word Choice Review Unit 2 Conventions
Fairy Tale- Trait: Organization
Folk Tale- Trait: Sentences
Writing Process: Directions
Research Skills
Taking Notes
Time Line
Chapter Headings
Encyclopedia
Reading a Web Page
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: Abraham Lincoln
Interdisciplinary Scarcity
Connections

Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer

Technology
 Grade 2 Unit 2: Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers
Envision It! Animations
Vocabulary Activities
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 2 Unit 3: Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.
Standards

Creativity Information
21st Century Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Communication and Collaboration
Themes Information Literacy
Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills

What does it mean to be creative?

Essential When does support from others help with creative idea?
Question(s) In what creative ways do we communicate?
When are creative ideas good? When are they bad?
Enduring When can creative ideas solve problems?
Understandings Where do creative ideas come from?
Pearl and Wagner: Two Good Friends Pearl and Wagner: Two Good Friends
Unit/Content Dear Juno Dear Juno
Anansi Goes Fishing Anansi Goes Fishing
Rosa and Blanca Rosa and Blanca
A Weed Is a Flowers A Weed Is a Flowers
Writing Conventions
Skills / Animal Fantasy-Trait: Voice Verbs-Singular, Plural, Past, Present Future,
Objectives Friendly Letter-trait: Focus/Ideas Am, Is, Are, Was, Were
Narrative Poem- Trait: Conventions Review Unit 3 Conventions
Writing for Tests-Trait: Word Choice Speaking/Listening
Review-Trait: Organization Make Introductions
Writing Process: Compare and Contrast Essay Solve Problems
Research Skills Summarize Information
Picture Graph Give a Description
Newspapers and Periodicals/Search Internet Media Techniques
Interview
Alphabetized List
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Science: A Weed is a Flower Social Studies: Dear Juno
Interdisciplinary
Connections
Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers Vocabulary Activities
 Grade 2 Unit 3: Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
Envision It! Animations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 2 Unit 4: Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross –Cultural Skills
How can familiar things help us with changes?
Essential How do plants change over time?
Question(s) / What changes occur under the ground?
Why are some changes difficult
Enduring How do changes in the weather affect us
Understandings How do things change? How do they stay the same?
A Foggy Fable A Foggy Fable
Unit/Content Life Cycle of a Pumpkin Life Cycle of a Pumpkin
Soil Soil
The Night the Moon Fell The Night the Moon Fell
The First Tortilla The First Tortilla
Writing Conventions
Skills / Friendly Letter- Trait: Organization Adjectives-Our Senses, Numbers, Size, Shape,
Objectives Writing for Tests-Trait: Word Choice Comparative, Superlative
Short Expository Report- Trait: Sentences Adverbs-When, Where, How
Narrative Poem- Trait: Voice Review Unit 4 Conventions
Thank You Note- Trait: Focus/Ideas Speaking/Listening
Writing Process: Description Describe Media Techniques
Research Skills Make an Announcement
Thesaurus Speak Well
Personal Sources Give an Oral Summary
Diagram
Reading and Composing Email
Natural and personal Sources

Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook

Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: A Froggy Fable Science: Life Cycle of a Pumpkin
Interdisciplinary Soil
Connections
Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers
Envision It! Animations
Vocabulary Activities
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 2 Unit 5 : Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.
Standards
21st Century Creativity and Innovation
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross- Cultural Skills

What does it mean to be responsible?

Essential Why should we be responsible for doing a good job?
Question(s) / How can we be responsible community members?
How can we be responsible animal owners?
Enduring How can we be responsible friends and neighbors?
Understandings How can we be responsible when we make a mistake?
Fire Fighter Fire Fighter
Unit/Content Carl the Complainer Carl the Complainer
Bad Dog, Dodger! Bad Dog, Dodger!
Horace and Morris but Mostly Dolores Horace and Morris but Mostly Dolores
The Signmaker’s Assistant The Signmaker’s Assistant

Writing Conventions
Skills / Narrative Nonfiction-Trait: Word Choice Pronouns
Objectives Realistic Fiction- trait: Organization Singular and Plural Nouns
Journal Entry- Trait: Voice Using I and Me
Animal fantasy- Trait: Conventions Contractions
Writing for Tests-Trait: Sentences Review Unit 5 Conventions
Writing Process: Persuasive Letter Speaking/Listening
Research Skills Identify Cultural Characteristics in Media
Online Dictionaries/Reference Sources Organize and Give a Demonstration
Bar Graph Listen for Facts and Opinions
Tables Maintain Focus in a Narrative Presentation
Evaluate Online Sources Identify and Speak to Your Audience
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: Fire Fighter Science: Bad Dog Dodger!
Interdisciplinary Horace and Morris but Mostly Dolores
Connections
Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers
Envision It! Animations
Vocabulary Activities
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM
Grade 2 Unit 6: Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
Standards

21st Century Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking, and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy, Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills.
Are traditions and celebrations important in our lives?
Essential Why are sports traditions important in our country?
Question(s/ What traditions and celebrations involve our country’s flag?
Why are family celebrations special?
Enduring What can we learn from cowboy traditions?
Understanding How are different traditions celebrated and shared?
Just like Josh Gibson Just like Josh Gibson
Unit/Content Red, White, and Blue: The story of the Red, White, and Blue: The story of the American
American Flag Flag
A Birthday Basket for Tia A Birthday Basket for Tia
Cowboys Cowboys
Grace for President Grace for President
Writing Conventions
Skills / Realistic Fiction-Trait: Organization Using Capital Letters
Objectives Descriptive Poem of Song- Trait: Voice Quotation Marks and Commas
Invitation Letter- Trait: Sentences Prepositions
Compare and Contrast- Trait: Focus/Ideas Review Unit 6 Conventions
Writing for Tests: Trait: Word Choice Speaking/Listening
Writing Process: Research Report Listen for Speaker’s Purpose and to a
Research Skills Description
Globe Evaluate Advertisements
Chart Identify Written Conventions
Interview and Natural Sources Use Vocabulary to Express Ideas and Establish
Schedules Tone
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies:
Interdisciplinary Just Like Josh Gibson,
Connections Red, White, and Blue: The Story of the American Flag
A Birthday for Tia, Cowboys
Grace for President

Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer

Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers Vocabulary Activities
Envision It! Animations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM
Grade 3 Unit 1 : Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross –Cultural Skills
What skills help us make our way in the world?
Essential What can we learn by trying new things?
Question(s) / What can we learn by trading with one another?
How can we achieve goals?
Enduring How can we get what we want and need?
Understandings What do we need to know about saving and spending?

When Charlie McButton Lost Power When Charlie McButton Lost Power
Unit/Content What about Me? What about Me?
Kumak’s Fish Kumak’s Fish
Supermarket Supermarket
My Rows and Piles of Coins My Rows and Piles of Coins

Writing Conventions
Skills / Narrative Poem-Trait: Word Choice Sentences-subject, predicate, interrogative,
Objectives Fable-Trait: Conventions declarative, imperative, exclamatory and
Description-Trait: Voice compound
Writing for Tests: Realistic Fiction: Trait: Review Conventions
Sentences Speaking/Listening
Quick Write for Fluency Media Literacy: News Report
Research Skills Description
Reference Texts Tell a Story
Alphabetical Order Panel Discussion
Glossary Book Report
Keyboarding
Pictographs
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: Supermarket
Interdisciplinary My Rows and Piles Of Coins
Connections
Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers Vocabulary Activities
Envision It! Animations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM
Grade 3 Unit 2: Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening/Speaking
Standards .

21st Century Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy
Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross –Cultural Skills
What are smart ways that problems are solved?
Essential How do the structures of plants and animals help them solve problems?
Question(s) / How do we know if a solution is a good solution?
When is it time to find a solution?
Enduring What can we do to make sure solutions are fair?
Understandings How have plants and animals adapted to solve problems?
Penguin Chick Penguin Chick
Unit/Content I Wanna Iguana I Wanna Iguana
Prudy’s Problem and How She Solved It Prudy’s Problem and How She Solved It
Tops and Bottoms Tops and Bottoms
Amazing Bird Nests Amazing Bird Nests
Writing Conventions
Poetry Trait: Word Choice Nouns-common, proper, singular, plural,
Skills/Objectives Fairy Tale Trait: Word Choice irregular, singular possessive, plural possessive
/ Friendly Letter Trait: Conventions Review Conventions
Persuasive Text: Advertisement: Trait: Listening/Speaking
Focus/Ideas Speech-Persuasive
Quick Write for Fluency Presentation
Research Skills Media Literacy: Interview
Dictionary/Glossary Description
Maps
Magazines/Encyclopedias
Paraphrase Sources
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: I Wanna Iguana Science: Penguin Chick
Interdisciplinary Tops and Bottoms Amazing Bird Nests
Connections
Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers Vocabulary Activities
Envision It! Animations

Revised Format – 5/12/09

 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM
GRADE 3 Unit 3: Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.
Standards
21st Century Creativity and Innovation
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information, Literacy, Initiative and Self Direction,
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills.
How are people and nature connected?
Essential How do people and nature interact?
Question(s) / How do people explain things in nature?
What can we learn about nature by investigating?
Enduring How can people help animals in danger?
Understandings What can we observe in different environments?
How Do You Raise a Raisin? How Do You Raise a Raisin?
Unit/Content Pushing Up the Sky Pushing Up the Sky
Seeing Stars Seeing Stars
A Symphony of Whales A Symphony of Whales
Around One Cactus: Owls, Bats, and Leaping Around One Cactus: Owls, Bats, and Leaping
Rats Rats
Writing Conventions
Skills / Drama -Trait: Sentences Verbs-action, linking, main and helping verbs
Objectives Formal Letter-Trait: Conventions Subject-Verb Agreement
News Article-Trait: Sentences Past, Present and Future Tenses
Expository Text- Trait: Word Choice Irregular Verbs
Quick Write for Fluency Review Conventions
Research Skills Speaking/Listening
Card Catalogue/Thesaurus/Almanac Media Literacy: Commercial
Take Notes and Record Findings Dramatization
Newspaper Voice Mail Message
Description and Oral Report
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Interdisciplinary Science: How Do You Raise a Raisin? Around One Cactus
Seeing Stars
Connections A Symphony of Whales
Technology Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers Vocabulary Activities
Envision It! Animations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM
Grade 3 Unit 4 : Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy, Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross – Cultural Skills

What does it mean to be unique?

Essential How do talents make someone unique?
Question(s) / What makes nature’s record holders unique?
Why is it valuable to have unique interests?
Enduring What unique traits does it take to be the first to do something?
Understandings What behaviors are unique to different animals?

The Man Who Invented Basketball: James The Man Who Invented Basketball: James
Unit/Content Naismith and His Amazing Game Naismith and His Amazing Game
Hottest, Coldest, Highest, Deepest Hottest, Coldest, Highest, Deepest
Rocks in His Head Rocks in His Head
America’s Champion Swimmer: Gertrude America’s Champion Swimmer: Gertrude Ederle
Ederle Fly, Eagle, Fly!
Fly, Eagle, Fly!
Writing Conventions
Skills/Objectives Persuasive Text- Trait: Conventions Singular and Plural Nouns
Imaginative Story- Trait: Conventions Subject, Object and Possessive Pronouns
Biography- Trait: Sentences Contractions and Prepositions
Autobiography- Trait: Organization Speaking/Listening
Summary- Trait: Word Choice Presentation
Quick Write for Fluency Media Literacy: Weather Forecast
Research Skills Interview
Dictionary Sportscast
Bar Graphs Book Review
Online Information
Outlining/Summarizing
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: Rocks in His Head Science: Hottest, Coldest, Highest, Deepest
Interdisciplinary Fly, Eagle, Fly!
Connections
Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers Vocabulary Activities
Envision It! Animations

Revised Format – 5/12/09

 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM
Grade 3 Unit 5: Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and Speaking
Standards .

21st Century Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy, Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross- Cultural Skills

What happens when two ways of life come together?

Essential How does culture influence the clothes we wear?
Question(s) / How are cultures alike and different?
Why is it hard to adapt to a new culture?
Enduring How can different cultures contribute to the foods we eat?
Understandings How does city life compare to life in the country?

Suki’s Kimono Suki’s Kimono

Unit/Content I Love Saturdays y domingos I Love Saturdays y domingos
Good-Bye, 382 Shin Dang Dong Good-Bye, 382 Shin Dang Dong
Jalapeno Bagels Jalapeno Bagels
Me and Uncle Romie Me and Uncle Romie
Writing Conventions
Skills/Objectives Letter to Editor- Trait: Organization Adjectives and Articles-comparative and
Poetry- Trait: Word Choice superlative
Invitation- Trait: Focus/Ideas Adverbs-Comparative and Superlative
Book Review- Trait: Conventions Conjunctions
Quick Write for Fluency Review Conventions
Research Skills Speaking/Listening
Newsletter How-To Demonstration
Maps/Atlas Reader’s Theatre
Outlining Song or Poem
Electronic Text Media Literacy: Radio Advertisement
Retelling
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Social Studies: Good-Bye, 382 Shin Dang Dong
Interdisciplinary Jalapeno Bagels
Connections Me and Uncle Romie
Sukiis Kimono
I Love Saturdays y domingos
Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers Vocabulary Activities
Envision It! Animations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM
Grade 3 Unit : 6 Volume 1 and 2
Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Themes Communication and Collaboration
Information Literacy, Initiative and Self Direction
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills.
What does freedom mean?
Essential Why do we have symbols that represent freedom?
Question(s) / What does it mean to grant freedom?
Why is freedom of expression important?
Enduring Why are rules and laws important to freedom?
Understandings What is the best way to keep your freedom?
The story of the Statue of Liberty The story of the Statue of Liberty
Unit/Content Happy Birthday Mr. Kang Happy Birthday Mr. Kang
Talking Walls: Art for the People Talking Walls: Art for the People
Two Bad Ants Two Bad Ants
Atlantis: The Legend of a Lost City Atlantis: The Legend of a Lost City
Writing Conventions
Skills / Notes-Trait: Focus/ideas Capital Letter
Objectives Poetry- Trait: Organization Abbreviations and Commas
Description- Trait: Word Choice Combining Sentences
Comic Book- Trait: Conventions Quotations and Parenthesis
Historical Fiction- Trait: Word Choice Conventions
Quick Write for Fluency Speaking/Listening
Research Skills Announcement
Time Line Express an Opinion
Maps Media Literacy : Talk Show
Alphabetical Order Description
Electronic Text Song
Quote Sources/Paraphrase Source
Weekly Assessment D’Nealian Workbook
Assessments Observation Checklists Reader’s and Writer’s Notebook
Portfolio Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit Benchmark Test
Differentiated Assessment
Teacher Observations
Weekly Tests
Interdisciplinary Social Studies: The Story of the Statue of Liberty
Happy Birthday Mr. Kang
Connections Two Bad Ants
Concept Talk Video Grammar Jammer
Technology Decodable e Books Online Journal
Integrations e-Readers Vocabulary Activities
Envision It! Animations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 4 Unit 1 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Leadership and Responsibility Social and Cross Cultural Skills
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flexibility and Adaptability
Essential What can we discover from new people and places?
What experiences bring diverse people together?
Question(s) / What opportunities can be found in new places?
Enduring Why do we want to explore new places?
What can we discover in the landscape of the southwest?
Understandings How does Yosemite reflect the unique qualities of the west?

Unit/Content Because of Winn-Dixie Because of Winn-Dixie

Lewis and Clark and Me Lewis and Clark and Me
On the Banks of Plum Creek On the Banks of Plum Creek
The Horned Toad Prince The Horned Toad Prince
Letters Home from Yosemite Letters Home from Yosemite
Skills / Writing Conventions
Realistic Story Trait: Word Choice Declarative and Interrogative Sentences
Objectives Expository Composition Trait: Imperative and Exclamatory Sentences
Organization Complete Subjects and Predicates
Parody Trait Voice Compound Sentences
Friendly Letter Trait: Conventions Clauses and Complex Sentences
Personal Narrative Trait: Voice Listening/Speaking
Research Skills Dramatic Retelling Introductions
Map/Globe/Atlas Skim and Scan Advertisement Report
Alphabetical Order Illustrations, Media Literacy: Debate
Captions, Label
Print Sources
Writer’s Notebook D’Nealian Practice Sheets
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit 1 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies
Lewis and Clark and Me
Connections On the Banks of Plum Creek
Letters Home from Yosemite

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 4 Unit 2: Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Standards

21st Century Themes Creativity and Innovation Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Communication and Collaboration Information Literacy
Essential What is the value of teamwork:
How can we learn to appreciate the talents of others?
Question(s) / How can we work together to achieve a goal?
Enduring What can teams accomplish?
How can people and animals work as a team?
Understandings What is the job of the President of the United States?
Unit/Content What Jo Did What Jo Did
Coyote School News Coyote School News
Scene Two Scene Two
Horse Heroes: True Stories of Amazing Horse Heroes: True Stories of Amazing
Horses. Horses.
So You Want to Be President? So You Want to Be President?
Skills / Writing Conventions
Poetry Trait: Word Choice Common and Proper Nouns
Objectives News Article Trait: Focus/Ideas Regular Plural Nouns
Poetry Trait: Organization Irregular Plural Nouns
Expository Composition Trait: Singular Possessive Nouns
Organization Plural Possessive Nouns
Writing For Tests: Persuasive Text Trait: Listening/Speaking
Organization Sportscast Media Literacy
Research Skills Readers Theater Interview
Chart/Table Newspaper/Newsletter Panel Discussion
Advertisement Graphs
Time Line

Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessments (quarterly)

Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 2 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies
What Did Jo Do
Connections Coyote School News
So You Want to be President?
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 4 Unit 3 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Creativity and Innovation Information Literacy

Flexibility and Adaptability
Essential What are some patterns in nature?
What is the value of looking at patterns in nature?
Question(s) / What patterns in nature guide the lives of animals?
Enduring How have people explained the pattern of day and night?
How do weather patterns affect our lives?
Understandings What causes changes in nature?
Unit/Content The Man Who Named The Clouds The Man Who Named The Clouds
Adelinais Whales Adelinais Whales
How Night Came From the Sea How Night Came From the Sea
Eye of the Storm Eye of the Storm
Paul Bunyan Paul Bunyan
Skills / Writing Conventions
Narrative Poem Trait: Organization Action and Linking Verbs
Objectives Invitation Trait: Voice Main and Helping Verbs
Myth Trait: Sentences Subject-Verb Agreement
Formal Letter Trait: Organization Past, Present and Future Tenses
Writing For Tests: Summary Trait: Irregular Verbs
Sentences Listening and Speaking
Research Skills Persuasive Speech Interview
Almanac Readers Guide to Periodical Readers Theater Media Literacy:
Literature Textbook/Trade book Weather Broadcast Demonstration
Online Phone Directory Schedule
Writer’s Notebook D’Nealian Practice Sheets
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Unit 3 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Eye of the Storm The Man Who Named the Clouds
Connections Adelinais Whales
How the Night Came from the Sea
Paul Bunyan
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 4 Unit 4 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Speaking&
Listening
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Communication and Collaborations Social and Cross Cultural Skills
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Information and Communication
Essential Is there an explanation for everything?
Why can’t you always believe what you think you see?
Question(s) / Why do animals behave the way they do?
Enduring Why are secret codes necessary?
How can knowing another language create understanding?
Understandings How can attention to detail solve a problem?
Unit/Content The Case of the Gasping Garbage The Case of the Gasping Garbage
Encantado: Pink Dolphin of the Amazon Encantado: Pink Dolphin of the Amazon
Navajo Code Talkers Navajo Code Talkers
Seeker of Knowledge Seeker of Knowledge
Encyclopedia Brown Encyclopedia Brown
Skills / Writing Conventions
Mystery Trait : Word Choice Singular and Plural Nouns
Objectives Songs Trait: Word Choice Pronouns
Instructions Trait: Organization Pronouns and Antecedents
Problem Solving Essay Trait: Focus/Ideas Possessive Pronouns
Writing for Tests: Adventure Trait: Word Contractions and Negatives
Choice Speaking and Listening
Research Skills Advertisement Media Literacy: TV
Thesaurus Commercial Interview
Procedures and Instructions Retelling Media Literacy: Newscast
Poster/Announcements Follow/Clarify
Directions Card Catalogue/Online
Database
Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 4 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Navajo Code Talkers Encantado:Pink Dolphin of the Amazon
Connections Seeker of Knowledge The Case of the Gaspimg Garbage
Ency Brown and the Case of Slippery Salamander
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 4 Unit 5 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Leadership and Responsibility Social and Cross Cultural Skills
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Initiative and Self Direction

Essential What makes an adventure?

How can we prepare for emergencies?
Question(s) / What surprises can happen on an expedition?
Enduring What does it take to be a hero?
What does a person sacrifice to explore the unknown?
Understandings What are the risks of walking on the moon?
Unit/Content Smokejumpers Smokejumpers
Lost City Lost City
Cliff Hanger Cliff Hanger
Antarctic Journal Antarctic Journal
Moonwalk Moonwalk
Skills / Writing Conventions
Fantasy Trait: Conventions Adjectives and Articles
Objectives Legend Trait: Sentences Adverbs
Thank You Note Trait: Word Choices Comparative and Superlative Adjectives
Persuasive Ad Trait: Focus/Ideas and Adverbs
Writing For Tests: Personal Narrative Time Order Words
Trait: Sentences Preposition and Prepositional Phrases
Research Listening and Speaking
Parts of a Book Outline Dramatization Media Literacy: Radio
Diagram/Scale Drawing SPQ3R Announcement Demonstration
Online Form/ Application Panel Discussion
Media Literacy: Talk Show
Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 5 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Lost City Smokejumpers
Connections Cliff Hanger Antarctic Journal
Moonwalk
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 4 Unit 6 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Social and Cross-Cultural Skills Creativity and Innovation
Leadership and Responsibility Intiative and Self Direction

Essential What does it take to achieve our goals and dreams?

How can words change peoples’ lives?
Question(s) / How can our abilities influence our dreams and goals?
Enduring How can one person’s view of the world affect others?
When do people choose to make sacrifices?
Understandings How do the achievements of our dreams?
Unit/Content My Brother Martin My Brother Martin
Jim Thorpe’s Bright Path Jim Thorpe’s Bright Path
How Tia Lola Came to Visit Stay How Tia Lola Came to Visit Stay
A Gift from the Heart A Gift from the Heart
The Man Who Went to the Far Side of the The Man Who Went to the Far Side of the
Moon Moon
Skills / Writing Conventions
Cause and Effect Essay Trait: Focus/Ideas Conjunctions
Objectives Review Trait: Sentences Capitalization and Abbreviations
Skit Trait: Word Choice Commas
Play Trait: Word Choice Quotations and Quotation Marks
Writing For Tests: Literary Non Fictions Titles
Trait: Conventions Review Conventions
Quick Write for Fluency Speaking and Listening
Research Skills Panel Discussion
Note Taking, Paraphrase, Synthesize, Media Literacy: Demonstration
Record Findings Online Manual Debate
Magazine/Periodicals Readers Theater
Dictionary/Glossary Quote Informational Speech
Source/Paraphrase Source
Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 6 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
My Brother Martin The Man Who Went to the Far Side of the Moon
Connections Jim Thorpe’s Bright Path
How Tia Lola Came to Visit Stay
A Gift From the Heart
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 5 Unit 1 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Leadership and Responsibility Social and Cross Cultural Skills
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flexibility and Adaptability
Essential What kind of challenges do people face and how do they meet them?
What inspires people to act courageously?
Question(s) / How can nature challenge us?
Enduring How do people survive in the wilderness?
How do we face personal challenges?
Understandings What challenges do immigrants encounter?
Unit/Content Red Kayak Red Kayak
Thunder Rose Thunder Rose
Island of the Blue Dolphins Island of the Blue Dolphins
Satchel Paige Satchel Paige
Ten Mile Day Ten Mile Day
Skills / Writing Conventions
Directions Trait: Organization Four Kinds of Sentences
Objectives Tall Tale Trait: Voice Subjects and Predicates
Invitation Trait: Focus/Ideas Independent and Dependent Clauses
News Letter Article: Word Choice Compound/Complex Sentences
Expository Composition Trait: Clauses and Compound Sentences
Organizations/ Paragraphs Speaking/Listening
Research Skills Interview Storytelling
Dictionary /Glossary Almanac Give Directions Media Literacy
SPQ3R Job Advertisement
Newspaper/Newsletter
Electronic Encyclopedia
Weekly Assessments District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Assessments Writer’s Notebook
Unit 2 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Thunder Rose Island of the Blue Dolphins
Connections Satchel Page
Ten Mile Day
Island of the Blue Dolphin

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 5 Unit 2: Volume 1 and 2

Writing /Research Skill Conventions/Listening&
Speaking
Standards

21st Century Themes Social and Cross-Cultural Skills Leadership and Responsibility
Productivity and Accountability Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Essential What makes people want to do the right thing?
What are the risks in helping others?
Question(s) / What are the rewards in helping others?
Enduring Why do people make sacrifices to help others?
How can people promote freedom?
Understandings
At the Beach At the Beach
Unit/Content Hold the Flag High Hold the Flag High
The Ch’i-lin Purse The Ch’i-lin Purse
A Summer’s Trade A Summer’s Trade
The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere
Skills / Writing Conventions
Description Trait: Vary Sentence Regular and Irregular Plural Nouns
Objectives Beginnings Possessive Nouns
Friendly Letter Trait: Voice Action and Linking Verbs
Poem Trait: Organization/Poetic Main and Helping Verbs
Structure Subject-Verb Agreement
Personal Narrative Trait: Word Choice Speaking/Listening
Historical Fiction Trait Word Choice Talk Show Speech
Sensory Details Readers Theater Panel Discussion
Research Skills Media Literacy: Documentary
Reference Books Parts of a Book
Textbook/Trade Books Electronic
Media
Illustrations/Captions
Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 2 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies
Hold the Flag High
Connections A Summer’s Trade
The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 5 Unit 3 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Creativity and Innovation Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Communication and Collaboration Information Literacy
Essential W hat do people gain from the work of inventors and artist?
How do inventors inspire our imagination?
Question(s) / How do artists inspire future generations?
Enduring How can paleontologists help us understand the past?
How does an artist use music to help inspire others?
Understandings How do artists create special effects to entertain us?
Unit/Content The Fabulous Perpetual Motion Machine The Fabulous Perpetual Motion Machine
Leonardo’s Horse Leonardo’s Horse
The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins
Mahalla Jackson Mahalla Jackson
Special Effects in Film and Television. Special Effects in Film and Television

Skills / Writing Conventions

Drama Trait: Word Choice Verb Tenses
Objectives Persuasive Speech Trait: Focus/Idea Principal Parts of Regular Verbs
Advertising Brochure Trait: Word Choice Principal Parts of Irregular Verbs
Description Trait: Word Choice Troublesome Verbs
Expository Text Trait: Organization Prepositions and Prepositional Phrases
Research Skills Speaking/Listening
Advertisement Skim and Scan Play Review Media Literacy
Schedule Card Catalog/Library Making Introductions Oral Presentations
Data Advertisement
Graphics/Symbols

Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)

Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 3 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
A Job for Michelangelo Leonardo’s Horse
Connections Leonardo’s Horse The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins
Mahalia Jackson A Model Scientist

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 5 Unit 4 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Flexibility and Adaptability Social and Cross-Cultural Skills
Leadership and Responsibility Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Essential How do people and animals adapt to different situations?
How do people adapt to difficult situations?
Question(s) / How do people overcome obstacles?
Enduring How do animals adapt to survive?
How do people adapt to new places?
Understandings Why do people try and change themselves?
Unit/Content Weslandia Weslandia
Tripping Over the Lunch Lady Tripping Over the Lunch Lady
Exploding Ants Exploding Ants
The Stormi Giovanni Club The Stormi Giovanni Club
The Gymnast The Gymnast

Skills / Writing Conventions

Picture Book Trait: Focus Ideas Subject and Object Pronouns
Objectives Friendly Letter Trait : Sentences Pronouns and Antecedents
Formal Letter Trait: Conventions Possessive Pronouns
Narrative Poetry Trait: Sensory Details Indefinite and Reflexive Pronouns
Autobiographical Sketch Trait: Voice Using Who and Whom
Research Skills Speaking/Listening
Instruction Manual Telephone How to Demo Persuasive Speech
Directory Description Give Advice
Magazine/Periodical Thesaurus Media Literacy: Interview
Graphs
Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 4 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
Westlandia Exploding Ants
Connections
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 5 Unit 5 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skill Conventions/Listening&
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Information, Communication and Tech Literacy Media Literacy
Initiative and Self Direction Flexibility and Adaptability
Essential How do people and animals adapt to different situations?
How can we find adventure in ordinary events?
Question(s) / How does technology help adventurers reach new places?
Enduring What is life like for an astronaut?
How do we explore places underground?
Understandings What adventures helped drive westward expansion?
Unit/Content The Skunk Ladder The Skunk Ladder
The Unsinkable Wreck of R.M.S. Titanic The Unsinkable Wreck of R.M.S. Titanic
Talk with an Astronaut Talk with an Astronaut
Journey to The Center of the Earth Journey to The Center of the Earth
Ghost Towns of the American West Ghost Towns of the American West

Skills / Writing Conventions

Rhyming Poem Trait: Word Choice Contractions and Negatives
Objectives Notes Trait: Focus/Ideas Adjectives and Articles
Biographical Sketch Trait: Sentences This, that, those and these
Letter to the Editor Trait: Voice Comparative and Superlative Adjectives
Summary Trait: Focus/Ideas Adverbs
Research Skills Speaking/Listening
Print Sources Note Taking Dramatization Media Literacy: Newscast
Readers Guide to Periodical Literature Storytelling Science v. Fiction
Diagrams/Scale Drawings Outlin Debate

Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)

Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 5 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic. The Unsinkable Wreck of the RMS Titanic
Connections Ghost Towns of The American West. Talk with an Astronaut.
Journey to the Center of the Earth
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 5 Unit 6 Volume 1 and 2

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening&
Speaking
.
Standards

21st Century Themes Social and Cross Cultural Skills Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Creativity and Innovation Leadership and Responsibility
Essential How do people and animals adapt to different situations?
How can unplanned situations have positive outcomes?
Question(s) / What unexpected effects can humans have on nature?
Enduring How can we learn from the results of our actions?
How can unexpected encounters reveal hidden dangers?
Understandings What unexpected influences do we have on those around us?
Unit/Content The Truth about Austin’s Amazing Bats The Truth about Austin’s Amazing Bats
The Mystery of St. Matthew Island The Mystery of St. Matthew Island
King Midas and The Golden Touch King Midas and The Golden Touch
The Hindenburg The Hindenburg
Sweet Music in Harlem Sweet Music in Harlem

Skills / Writing Conventions

Journal Entry Trait: Voice Modifiers
Objectives Mystery Trait: Focus/Ideas Conjunctions
Parody Trait: Voice Commas
Review Trait: Organizations and Quotations and Quotations Marks
Paragraphs Semi colons, colon, periods, hyphens
Personal Trait: Voice Speaking/Listening
Research Skills Debate Interview
Follow and Clarify Directions Time Storytelling Readers Theater
Line Media Literacy: Newscast
Order Form/Applications
Map/Globe/Atlas

Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)

Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 6 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies Science
King Midas and The Golden Touch The Truth about Austin’s Amazing Bats
Connections The Hindenberg The Hindenburg
Sweet Music in Harlem

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animations Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade Six Unit One: Loyalty and Respect– 6 weeks

Writing/Research Skill Conventions/Listening&
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Themes Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flexibility and Adaptability
Leadership and Responsibility
Essential What draws us to people and things around us and makes us care?
How can we help protect those we love?
Question(s) / Why should we care about people we do not know?
Enduring How do we learn to connect with others in a new place?
Why is it important to care about nature?
Understandings What is a bond between animals and humans?
Unit/Content Old Yeller, Old Yeller,
Mother Fletcher’s Gift, Mother Fletcher’s Gift,
“Viva New Jersey” “Viva New Jersey”
“Saving the Rain Forests” “Saving the Rain Forests”
Hachiko: the True Story of a Loyal Dog Hachiko: the True Story of a Loyal Dog
Skills / Writing Conventions
Personal Narrative Trait: Voice Four Kinds of Sentences
Objectives Thank You Letter Trait: Focus/Ideas Subjects and Predicates
Poem Trait: Word Choice Independent and Dependent Clauses
Problem Solution Essay: Focus/Ideas Compound and Complex Sentences
Writing For Tests: Journal Entry Trait: Common and Proper Nouns
Organization and Paragraphs Speaking/Listening
Research Skills Storytelling Talk Show
Graphic Organizers Thesaurus Advertisement Media Literacy: Analyze
Magazines Graph a photograph
Card Catalogue/Library Database Book Review

Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)

Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 1 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies: Science:
The Harlem Renaissance Saving the Rain Forests
Connections Old Yeller
Mother Fletcher’s Gift
Hachiko: The True Story of a Loyal Dog
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animation Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade Six Unit Two: Space and Time– 6 weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Themes Informative Literacy Information, Communications and Technology
Literacy
Essential Why might things far away and long ago be important to us now?
Why is it important to know about the universe?
Question(s) / What can we learn about the past by examining its relics?
Enduring Why is it important to learn about America’s past?
How can a focus on the future help us imagine new possibilities?
Understandings Why is it important to understand ancient civilizations?

Unit/Content “The Universe” The Universe”

“The Emperor’s Silent Army “The Emperor’s Silent Army
“Stones, Bones and Petroglyphs” “Stones, Bones and Petroglyphs”
Good-bye to the Moon Good-bye to the Moon
“Egypt” “Egypt”
Skills / Writing Conventions
Movie Review Trait: Voice Regular and Irregular Verbs
Objectives Mystery Trait: Focus/ Ideas Possessive Nouns
Poem Trait: Sentences Action and Linking Verbs
Writing for Tests; Fantasy: Word Choice Subject-Verb Agreement
Advertisement Trait: Past, present and Future Tense
Organization/Paragraphs Speaking/Listening
Research Skills Media Literacy: Analyze Media Talk
Skim and Scan Graphic Organizer Show
Note Taking Dictionary/Glossary Panel Discussion Dramatization
Reference Book Newscast
Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 2 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies: Science:
“The Emperor’s Silent Army” “The Universe”
Connections
“Stones, Bones and Petroglyphs” “Goodbye to the Moon”
“Egypt”

Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animation Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade Six Unit Three: Challenges and Obstacles– 6 weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Speaking &
Listening
Standards
21st Century Themes Initiative and Self Direction Flexibility and Adaptability
Productive and Accountability Creativity and Innovation
Essential How are the results of our efforts sometimes greater than we expect?
How does facing challenges help us learn about ourselves?
Question(s) / How can our determination affect our ability to succeed?
Enduring Why is it important to stay calm during a crisis?
How do we demonstrate trustworthiness?
Understandings What obstacles do we face in our daily lives?
Unit/Content Hatchet Hatchet
When Marian Sang When Marian Sang
Learning to Swim Learning to Swim
Juan Verdades: The Man Who Couldn’t Juan Verdades: The Man Who Couldn’t
Tell a Lie Tell a Lie
“Morning Traffic” “Morning Traffic
Writing Conventions
Skills / Writing For Tests: Speech Trait: Focus/Ideas Principal Parts of Regular Verbs
Objectives Biography Trait: Conventions Principal Parts of Irregular Verbs
Autobiographical Sketch Trait: Sentences Verbs, Objects and Subject Complements
Folk Tale Trait: Voice Troublesome Verbs
Personal Narrative Trait: Word Choice
Prepositions
Research Skills
Poster/Announcement Study Strategies
Speaking/Listening
Readers Guide to Periodical Literature Informational Speech Media Literacy:
Study Strategies Outline Analyze a Photograph How to
Print Sources/Media Demonstration Retelling a Story
Readers Theater

Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)

Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 3 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Hatchet,
Connections
When Marian Sang
Learning to Swim
Juan Verdades: The Man Who Couldn’t Tell a Lie
“Morning Traffic”

Technology
Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Integrations Vocabulary Activities Animation Online Journal eSelections
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade Six Unit Four: Explorers, Pioneers, Discoverers– 6 weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Speaking &
Listening
Standards
21st Century Themes Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flexibility and Adaptability

Essential How have those who have gone first influenced those who have gone after?
What drives people to explore harsh climates and dangerous places?
Question(s) / Why is it important to study animals responsibly?
Enduring What does it mean to be a pioneer?
Why do explorers seek out other worlds?
Understandings How do inventions happen?
Unit/Content Into the Ice: The Story of Arctic Into the Ice: The Story of Arctic
Exploration Exploration
“The Chimpanzees I Love: Saving Their “The Chimpanzees I Love: Saving Their
World and Ours” World and Ours”
“Black Frontiers” “Black Frontiers”
“Deep Sea Danger” “Deep Sea Danger”
Inventing the Future: A Photobiography Inventing the Future: A Photobiography of
of Thomas Alva Edison” Thomas Alva Edison”

Skills / Writing Conventions

Narrative Poem Trait: Voice Subject and Object Pronouns
Objectives Writing For Tests; Imaginative Story: Pronouns and Antecedents
Organizations and Paragraphs. Possessive Pronouns
Description Trait: Word Choice Infinite and Reflexive Pronouns
Drama Trait: Organizations/Paragraphs Using Who and Whom
Summary Trait: Focus/Ideas Listening/ Speaking
Research Skills
Diagram/Scale Drawing Electronic
Media
Note Taking Follow and
Clarify Directions Advertisement
Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 4 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies: Science:
“Into the Ice: The Story of Arctic Exploration” “The Chimpanzees I Love: Saving Their
Connections “Black Frontiers” World and Ours”
“Deep Sea Danger”
“Inventing the Future…”
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animation Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade Six Unit Five: Resources – 6 weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening&
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Themes Social and Cross-Cultural Skills Communication and Collaboration
Essential What are resources and why are they important to us?
How can different generations be resources?
Question(s) / How can we combine our resources to make change?
Enduring How can stories be used to explain the workings of nature?
How do we decide the value of different resources?
Understandings How are people rethinking Earth’s resources?
Unit/Content A View from Saturday A View from Saturday
Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar
Chavez, Chavez,
The River that Went to the Sky: A Story The River that Went to the Sky: A Story
from Malawi from Malawi
“Gold “Gold
“Greensburg Goes Green” “Greensburg Goes Green
Skills / Writing Conventions
Writing For Tests: Review Trait: Contractions and Negatives
Objectives Conventions Adjectives and Articles
Letter to The Editor Trait: Word Choice Using this, that, those and these
Tall Tale Trait: Voice Comparative and Superlative Adjectives
Brochure Trait: Sentences Adverbs
Cause and Effect Essay Trait: Speaking/Listening
Conventions Interview Media Literacy: Analyze an
Research Skills Editorial Cartoon Storytelling
Schedule News Letter Informational Speech Persuasive Speech
Chart/Table Type Formats
Encyclopedia: Electronic or Print
Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)
Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 5 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies: Science:
Harvesting Hope: The Story of “Greensburg Goes Green”
Connections Cesar Chavez “A River that Went to the Sky:…”
“Gold”
“A View from Saturday”
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animation Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Unit Six: Exploring Cultures – 6 weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening &
Speaking
Standards
21st Century Themes Information, communications and Technology Literacy
Social and Cross- Cultural Skills
Essential In what ways does one culture affect another?
How can stories from the past influence our imaginations?
Question(s) / How have ancient cultures influenced modern ones?
Enduring How can we understand and appreciate our cultural differences?
Must cultural differences lead to conflict?
Understandings How can migration affect a culture?
Unit/Content Don Quixote and the Windmills, Don Quixote and the Windmills,
“Ancient Greece “Ancient Greece
The All-American Slurp The All-American Slurp
“The Aztec News “The Aztec News
“Where Opportunity Awaits” “Where Opportunity Awaits”
Writing Conventions
Skills / Parody Trait: Focus/Ideas Modifiers
Objectives Notes Trait: Sentences Conjunctions
Invitation Trait: Word Choice Commas
News Article Trait: Focus /Ideas Quotations and Quotation Marks
Writing for Tests: Job Applications Essay Punctuation
Trait: Word Choice Speaking / Listening
Research Skills Book Review Media Literacy: Analyze Art
Part of a Bokk Time Line Giving Direction Newscast
Instruction Manual Online Newspaper Interview
Map/Globe/Atlas

Writer’s Notebook District Writing Assessment (quarterly)

Assessments Weekly Tests and Assessments
Unit 6 Benchmark Test
End of Year Benchmark Assessments (to measure a student’s mastery of program skills covered
in all 6 units)
Interdisciplinary Social Studies: Science:
Don Quixote and the Windmills
Connections “Ancient Greece”
“The Aztec News”
The All American Slurp
“Where Opportunity Awaits”
Technology Concept Talk Video Big Questions Video Envision It! eReaders
Vocabulary Activities Animation Online Journal eSelections
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 7 - Unit One: Mythology

Writing/Research Skills Conventions/Listening and
Speaking
TBA TBA
Standards

21st Century Themes Global Awareness Leadership and Responsibility

Creativity and Innovation Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Essential Why do we study mythology?
Why was mythology created?
Question(s) / Who are the major god/goddesses and what are their roles?
Enduring How are the eight characteristics of mythology developed with the more well-known and
popular myths?
Understandings What obligation do we have to preserving knowledge?
Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick
Unit/Content Riordan Riordan
Heroes, Gods, and Monsters of the Greek Heroes, Gods, and Monsters of the Greek Myths
Myths by Bernard Evslin by Bernard Evslin
Mythology, by Edith Hamilton Mythology, by Edith Hamilton
D'Aulaires Book of Greek Myths by Ingri D'Aulaires Book of Greek Myths by Ingri
D’Aulaires D’Aulaires
English, Houghton Mifflin English, Houghton Mifflin
Write Source 2000 Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Original myths 4 Kinds of Sentences
Objectives Script writing Nouns
Summarizing Clauses
Literature Response
Greek newspaper Speaking/Listening
Collaborative discussion of myths/novel
Research/Skills Presentation of Greek myth script
Dictionary, LMC literacy, Almanac

Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Ancient History of Greece
Connnections Science:
Volcanoes, weather, seasons
Technology Smartboard games and activities
Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL
LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

Grade 7 - Unit 2: Mystery 5-6 weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions / Listening &
Speaking
TBA TBA
Standards
21st Century Themes Communication and Collaboration Leadership and Responsibility
Information Literacy Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Flexibility and Adaptability Social Skills
Essential What are the elements of a mystery and how are they developed?
What inspires people to act courageously?
Question(s) / How do we adapt to situations?
Enduring How do the authors develop characterization?
How can the theme implied through the events and characters in the novel be proven or
Understandings justified?
How do the personalities of the characters plan an important role in the novel?
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
Unit/Content House of Dies Drear by Virginia Hamilton House of Dies Drear by Virginia Hamilton
Killing Mr. Griffin by Lois Duncan Killing Mr. Griffin by Lois Duncan
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night- The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-
time byMark Haddon time byMark Haddon
The House with the Clock in its Walls by John The House with the Clock in its Walls by John
Bellairs Bellairs
And Then There Were None by Agatha And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
Christie English, Houghton Mifflin
English, Houghton Mifflin Write Source 2000
Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions
Mystery writing focusing on Dialogue
Objectives characterization, audience, dialogue, Verbs
descriptive details and mystery Modifiers
vocabulary
Journal writing and reflections Listening/Speaking
Storytelling
Research/Skills Collaborative discussion of novels and
Dictionary mysteries
Peer editing
Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Underground Railroad
Connnections

Technology Smartboard games and activities

Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 7 - Unit Three: Realistic Fiction – 5-6 weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions / Listening &
Speaking
TB TBA
Standards

21st Century Themes Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Communication

Flexibility and Adaptability Initiative and Self-Direction
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills Leadership and Responsibility
Essential How are the basic elements of realistic fiction developed in this novel?
How does the author develop parallel story lines?
Question(s) / How can the theme implied through the events and characters in this novel be proven or
Enduring justified?
How does the author develop characterization?
Understandings How do the physical and emotional experiences of a person influence who they are?
How does the use of sensory details and figurative language enhance the novel?
Rules by Cynthia Lord Rules by Cynthia Lord
Unit/Content Wolfrider by Avi Wolfrider by Avi
All Alone in the Universe by Lynne Rae All Alone in the Universe by Lynne Rae Perkins
Perkins Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech
Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan
Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick
Sonnenblick Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life by Wendy
Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life by Mass
Wendy Mass English, Houghton Mifflin
English, Houghton Mifflin Write Source 2000
Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Literature response Capitalization and Punctuation
Objectives Open-ended responses Pronouns
Narrative account/short story Phrases

Research/Skills: Listening & Speaking:

Dicitonary Collaborative discussion of novels
LMC literacy Presenting short stories and responses
Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Health:
Social skills, real life scenarios
Connnections

Technology Smartboard games and activities

Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 7 - Unit Four: Science Fiction/Fantasy– 5-6 weeks

Writing/Research Skills Conventions / Speaking &
Listening
TBA TBA
Standards

21st Century Themes Creativity and Innovation Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Communication and Collaboration Flexibility and Adaptability
Essential What are the elements of a science fiction/fantasy novel?
How do great writers hook and hold the reader?
Question(s) / What do the worlds of science fiction teach us about our own world?
Enduring What elements of fiction did the author use to portray his/her story?
How do people adapt to difficult situations?
Understandings Why do people try to change themselves?
The Giver by Lois Lowry The Giver by Lois Lowry
Unit/Content A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Z for Zachariah by Robert C. O’Brien Z for Zachariah by Robert C. O’Brien
Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Maximum Ride James Patterson Maximum Ride James Patterson
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
English, Houghton Mifflin English, Houghton Mifflin
Write Source 2000 Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Open-ended responses Effective sentences and word choice
Objectives Literature Response Sentence variety and structure
Letter writing

Research Skills: Listening and Speaking:

Dictionary Collaborative discussion of novels
LMC Literacy
Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Science
Comparison of science fiction vs. reality
Connnections Social Studies
Incorporating controversial issues into discussion and current events
Technology Smartboard games and activities
Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 7 - Unit Five: Discrimination Unit– 5-6 weeks

Writing / Research Skills Conventions / Speaking &
Listening
TBA TBA
Standards
21st Century Themes Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Information Literacy
Initiative and Self-Direction Social and Cross-Cultural Skills
Communication and Collaboration Flexibility and Adaptability
Essential How did the main character react to adversity? What does this say about your
character’s nature?
Question(s) / What is a stereotype? What is a scapegoat?
Enduring How can ordinary people be heroes?
How does conflict lead to change?
Understandings How do unplanned situations have positive outcomes?
What unexpected influences do we have on those around us?
How can we learn from the results of our actions?
What personal qualities have helped you deal with conflict and change?
The Cage by Ruth Minsky Sender The Cage by Ruth Minsky Sender
Unit/Content Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli
Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl
Daniel’s Story by Carol Matas Daniel’s Story by Carol Matas
The Devil’s Arithmetic by Jane Yolen The Devil’s Arithmetic by Jane Yolen
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Zlata’s Diary by Zlata Filipovic Zlata’s Diary by Zlata Filipovic
English, Houghton Mifflin English, Houghton Mifflin
Write Source 2000 Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Expository Effective paragraphs
Objectives Persuasive
Literature Response
Speaking / Listening:
Research Skills: Peer edit
LMC Skills – Holocaust Collaborative discussion of novels

Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies
Incorporating controversial issues into discussion and current events
Connnections
Technology Smartboard games and activities
Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 7 - Unit Six: Poetry - ongoing

Writing / Research Skills Conventions / Listening &
Speaking
TBA TBA
Standards

21st Century Themes Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Communication and Collaboration Flexibility and Adaptability
Essential How do rhythm, repetition, and alliteration affect a poem when it is read aloud?
How do poems create imagery?
Question(s) / What characteristics make a poem “good” for you?
Enduring How is poetry an art of the language and a means of communication?
Understandings
Various poems and poets, specifically Robert Various poems and poets, specifically Robert
Unit/Content Frost, Emily Dickinson, Langston Hughes, Frost, Emily Dickinson, Langston Hughes, Maya
Maya Angelou Angelou
English, Houghton Mifflin English, Houghton Mifflin
Write Source 2000 Write Source 2000
Poetry resources Poetry resources
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Poetry writing Stanzas
Objectives Poetry analysis Usage in poetry

Research Skills: Listening/Speaking:

Dictionary Presentation of poems
Glossary Teaching the structure of poem
LMC literacy
Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Science
Nature
Connnections

Technology Smartboard activities

Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 8 - Unit One: Short Stories – 5-6 weeks

Writing / Research Skills Conventions / Speaking &
Listening
TBA TBA
Standards
21st Century Themes Cross Cultural Skills Critical Thinking
Creativity Information Literacy
Essential How does an author’s choice of narrative elements affect or change the work?
What is the author’s purpose in writing the short story?
Question(s) / What is the central focus or theme in the short story?
Enduring How do the conflicts in a given story illustrate an individual role in society?
What are the four basic elements of a short story? How are these developed in each
Understandings story?
“A Retrieved Reformation” by O. Henry “A Retrieved Reformation” by O. Henry
Unit/Content “The Moustache” by Robert Comier “The Moustache” by Robert Comier
“The Necklace” by Guy de Maupassant “The Necklace” by Guy de Maupassant
“Barrio Boy” by Ernesto Galarza “Barrio Boy” by Ernesto Galarza
“The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan “The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan
Spotlight on Literature Spotlight on Literature
English, Houghton Mifflin English, Houghton Mifflin
Write Source 2000 Write Source 2000t
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Critical response to text ideas and the Sentences
Objectives authors’ craft by using textual evidence to Nouns
support interpretations
Creative writing: short stories
Speaking and Listening
Research Skills: Peer editing
Literary terms Reading aloud
LMC literacy Collaborative discussion of short stories
Dictionary
Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Historical perspective of prisons and punishment; Chinese immigration
Connnections Health: Science:
Arteriosclerosis artificial gemstones
Technology Smartboard games and activities
Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 8 - Unit Two: Coming of Age – 5-6 weeks

Writing / Research Skills Conventions / Speaking &
Listening
TBA TBA
Standards

21st Century Themes Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flexibility and Adaptability
Initiative and Self Direction Social Skills
Productive and Accountability Leadership and Responsibility
Essential What significant life experiences have shaped you into the person you are today?
Do you regret any choices you have made in your life?
Question(s) / How do individuals cope with debilitating illness, oppression, depression, poverty and
Enduring death of family and friends?
How does the analysis of literary elements help clarify the theme?
Understandings Are there lessons to be learned from the direst of circumstances?
What makes a productive and responsible citizen?
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Unit/Content The Pigman by Paul Zindel The Pigman by Paul Zindel
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
Break by Hannah Moskowitz Break by Hannah Moskowitz
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
Dog Song by Gary Paulsen Dog Song by Gary Paulsen
English, Houghton Mifflin English, Houghton Mifflin
Write Source 2000 Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Open-ended literature responses Verbs
Objectives Letter writing Clauses
Persuasive essay
Speaking / Listening:
Research Skills: Collaborative discussion of novels
LMC literacy Presenting Prejudice project
Prejudice
Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Historical Perspectives; Social Discrimination
Connnections
Technology Smartboard games and activities
Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 8 - Unit Three: Discrimination – 5-6 weeks

Writing / Research Skills Conventions / Listening &
Speaking
TBA TBA
Standards
21st Century Themes Problem Solving Flexibility and Adaptability
Initiative and Self Direction Social Skills
Productive and Accountability Leadership and Responsibility
Essential How might prejudice and superstition lead to injustice?
Do we, as individuals, have a responsibility to protect the innocent?
Question(s) / Why do people fear what they don’t understand?
Enduring How does the most important part of a child’s education take place in the home and
community?
Understandings How might appearances not always reflect reality?
What is moral courage?
Unit/Content To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
English, Houghton Mifflin English, Houghton Mifflin
Write Source 2000 Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Literature responses Capitalization and Punctuation
Objectives Expository Modifiers

Research Skills: Listening & Speaking:

Historical background Collaborative discussion of novel
LMC literacy
Dictionary
Almanac

Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Racial intolerance
Connnections
Technology Smartboard games and activities
Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 8 - Unit Four: Memoir/Biography – 5-6 weeks

Writing / Research Skills Conventions / Listening &
Speaking
TBA TBA
Standards

21st Century Themes Cross Cultural Skills Information Literacy

Leadership and Responsibility Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Initiative and Self-Direction Accountability
Essential How does the author’s perspective change the meaning of a story?
Will 21st Century society be marked by remembrance, or by forgetting?
Question(s) / How do the physical and emotional experiences of a person influence who they are?
Enduring How do people adapt to difficult situations?
What inspires people to act courageously?
Understandings What are the elements of a nonfiction novel?
Night by Eli Weisel Night by Eli Weisel
Unit/Content Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane
Maus by Art Spiegelman Maus by Art Spiegelman
Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by
by Ishmael Beah Ishmael Beah
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
Behind the Secret Window: A Memoir of a Behind the Secret Window: A Memoir of a
Hidden Childhood during WWII by Nelly S. Hidden Childhood during WWII by Nelly S. Toll
Toll English, Houghton Mifflin
English, Houghton Mifflin Write Source 2000
Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions
Literature response Effective sentence structure
Objectives Autobiographical/Biographical account Paragraphing

Research Skills Listening & Speaking

LMC literacy Collaborative discussion of novels
Historical background Presentation of autobiographies
Dictionary
Almanac

Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Historical perspectives of discrimination
Connnections
Technology Online components for Vocabulary Workshop; interactive games and puzzles
Smartboard games and activities
Integrations Videos
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 8 - Unit Five: Edgar Allan Poe – 5-6 weeks

Writing / Research Skills Conventions / Listening &
Speaking
TBA TBA
Standards

21st Century Themes Creativity Critical Thinking

Communication and Collaboration Self-Direction
Essential How does the point of view of the story affect the story line?
What are the motivations behind a person’s behavior?
Question(s) / What poetry elements are critical in Poe’s works?
Enduring How does an author’s life story impact his works?
Understandings
“The Tell Tale Heart” “The Tell Tale Heart”
Unit/Content “The Cask of Amontillado” “The Cask of Amontillado”
“The Raven” “The Bells” “Annabel Lee” “The Raven” “The Bells” “Annabel Lee”
“The Pit and the Pendulum” “The Pit and the Pendulum”
“The Murders in the Rue Morgue” “The Murders in the Rue Morgue”
English, Houghton Mifflin English, Houghton Mifflin
Write Source 2000 Write Source 2000
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Poetry analysis Paragraphing
Objectives Short story analysis
Listening & Speaking
Research Skills: Reading poetry and stories aloud
Poe background information Collaborative discussion of literature
LMC literacy
Dictionary
Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Biographical and Historical Information regarding Edgar Allan Poe
Connnections
Technology Smartboard games and activities
Videos
Integrations
 HARDING TOWNSHIP SCHOOL

Grade 8 – Unit 6: Shakespeare – TBA

Writing / Research Skills Conventions / Speaking &
Listening
TBA TBA
Standards

21st Century Themes Creativity Critical Thinking

Communication and Collaboration Self-Direction
Essential TBA
Question(s) /
Enduring
Understandings
TBA Language of Shakespeare
Unit/Content
Skills / Writing: Conventions:
Journals Infinitives
Objectives Literature response Gerunds
Participles

Research Skills: Listening and Speaking:

Shakespeare vocabulary and etymology Public performance of Shakespeare Play
LMC literacy

Independent practice
Assessments Rubrics used to guide and assess Quizzes
Unit Test Unit Test
Demonstrate command when writing
Interdisciplinary Social Studies:
Historical background information from Shakespeare and his play
Connnections
Technology Online components for Vocabulary Workshop; interactive games and puzzles
Smartboard games and activities
Integrations Videos