Saint John's Curriculum

MS English

In Grade 7 English, students analyze a variety of genres of writing with a focus on textual  as well as interpersonal connections. The class seeks to foster an interest in reading independently as well as through class-wide assigned readings. A study of novels, poetry, and short stories leads students to the examination of several themes that are relevant to the new student at Saint John’s, with a central theme of what it means to be a Pioneer.

Students develop their verbal and writing skills through a variety of modes of expression. Students build mastery in the areas of narrative, informative, and argumentative writing. Grammatical instruction focuses on proper sentence structure, with an eye towards mastery of parts of speech and conventions of punctuation and spelling. A study of vocabulary in the context of class readings enables students to expand their communication skills. Public speaking is an integral part of the course. Assessment for the course is based on a combination of formal and informal written assignments, and the ability to recall details of class readings, as well as class participation and organizational skills.

In Grade 8 English, students work to both strengthen and acquire new skills in reading, writing, and the English language. Students are encouraged to make connections and inferences, as well as ask questions in order to gain a better understanding of a work of literature. This  class seeks to cultivate a passion for reading and writing, and encourage both outside of the classroom. The eighth-grade curriculum continues to develop the theme of what it means  to be a Pioneer, including the five core values of the Xaverian Brothers: compassion, humility, simplicity, trust, and zeal.

Literature units focus on different genres that include the short story, fiction, non-fiction, drama, and poetry, to name a few. Writing units focus on different styles of writing. Grammar and vocabulary are also incorporated into weekly lessons. Public speaking will be an integral  part of the course, as well. Assessment for the course is a combination of formal, informal, and authentic assessment. At the culmination of the eighth grade, your son will be prepared  to begin the challenging yet engaging curriculum at the high school level.

 

Below are the freshman level English courses that eighth grade students can be recommended for:

  • English I (1)

    Freshman English is an introductory course. The course emphasis is placed on the mechanics and structure of sentence writing. With this end in view, concentration is on the basic parts of speech. The study of literature stresses an overview of literary genres with an emphasis on the fundamentals of literary study. Vocabulary study is accomplished through a study of word use in context and through the use of supplementary exercise materials. As  the Freshman Year is conceived of as a leveling process, the Sophomore Year provides the opportunity for the introduction to the more advanced stylistic and critical concepts essential to the successful completion of the Junior and Senior years.

  • English I (2)

    Freshman English is an introductory course. The course emphasis is placed on the mechanics and structure of sentence writing. With this end in view, concentration is on the basic parts of speech. The study of literature stresses an overview of literary genres with an emphasis on the fundamentals of literary study. Vocabulary study is accomplished through a study of word use in context and through the use of supplementary exercise materials. As  the Freshman Year is conceived of as a leveling process, the Sophomore Year provides the opportunity for the introduction to the more advanced stylistic and critical concepts essential to the successful completion of the Junior and Senior years.

  • English I (H)

    Freshman English is an introductory course. The course emphasis is placed on the mechanics and structure of sentence writing. With this end in view, concentration is on the basic parts of speech. The study of literature stresses an overview of literary genres with an emphasis on the fundamentals of literary study. Vocabulary study is accomplished through a study of word use in context and through the use of supplementary exercise materials. As  the Freshman Year is conceived of as a leveling process, the Sophomore Year provides the opportunity for the introduction to the more advanced stylistic and critical concepts essential to the successful completion of the Junior and Senior years.

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Saint John's High School

378 Main Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545    (508) 842-8934
Saint John’s High School has educated young men under the sponsorship of the Xaverian Brothers since 1898. Through the Saint John’s strong college preparatory curriculum, over 900 students in grades seven through twelve pursue personal and intellectual growth in an environment that is committed to the development of the whole person and recognizes a moral dimension of life through service to God and to others.