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Academics
Middle School (5-8)

English

English Department

We use literature as a lens for boys to explore the world, develop their own sense of identity, and appreciate multiple perspectives. They explore poetry, plays, graphic novels, short stories, memoirs, novels, and historical non-fiction. As they develop the fundamentals of writing, boys learn to share their thoughts confidently and clearly. They cultivate empathy while learning to both thoughtfully defend their opinions and listen generously to their peers.

Mrs. Zawie, Middle School Teacher

So much of what we are doing in the Middle School is helping them grow into a more confident student. That is the student who is willing to take risks, be wrong, and learn from his mistakes.

Fifth Grade

English 5 invites students to explore the theme of Journeys & Destinations through a diverse selection of literature, including The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, A Wrinkle in Time, The Golden Goblet, and a variety of short stories, myths, poetry, and Shakespearean sonnets. Students will develop essential reading, writing, and analytical skills while engaging with literary elements such as characterization, mood, point of view, and thematic conflict, and set a strong writing foundation. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based writing using the TEES (Topic, Evidence, Evidence Context, Significance) paragraph structure and vocabulary development through the study of Greek and Latin roots. Through literature circles, guided reading, and genre study, students will examine how characters grow, confront challenges, and navigate the choices that shape their journeys. Regular grammar instruction and writing workshops support students in becoming clear, thoughtful communicators as they deepen their understanding of literature’s enduring relevance. 

Sixth Grade

English 6 helps students develop critical skills and perspectives as they grow in reading, writing, language usage, speaking, and listening. Literature is chosen to expand a student’s literal, interpretive, and evaluative comprehension skills. Many texts are centered around the theme of characters thriving with exceptionalities, while others relate to America and societies around the globe. Reading strategies that improve fluency and comprehension of fiction and non-fiction are incorporated into the class. Students progress through the writing process as they plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish various types of writing such as literature responses, informative and creative essays, poetry, and narratives. Vocabulary, grammar, and spelling are reinforced.   

Seventh Grade

The English 7 curriculum focuses on the essential question: How does one develop his own voice as a listener, observer, creator, problem solver, and agent of change? Through reading, students explore the impact of settings, conflicts, and choices on characters and their development. Students engage with novels, plays, podcasts, poetry, drama, and primary sources. They continue to develop their skills as literary analysts, using the TEES (Topic, Evidence, Evidence Context, Significance) approach to writing to express their understanding of texts. Instruction is provided in revising and editing as well as sentence combining, usage of conventions, vocabulary, and recognizing and employing literary devices. Throughout the course of the year, students develop their voices as individual thinkers and writers.

Eighth Grade

English 8 begins with Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “The Danger of a Single Story,” which propels students into a yearlong exploration of literature that represents and celebrates the many voices of society. Using novels, poetry, plays, podcasts, graphic novels, and primary sources as model texts, students interpret and analyze on a deep level, practice close reading and annotation, write expository paragraphs and essays, and engage in dialogue with one another. Instruction is provided in revising and editing as well as sentence combining, conventional usage, vocabulary, and recognizing and employing literary devices. The Eighth-Grade Speaking Contest is a long-standing tradition of this year. Students conduct research on a topic of personal meaning, write a persuasive speech, and present to their peers. Every discussion, text, and student-written piece builds capacity for reflection, critical thinking, and perspective-taking.

English Chair

List of 1 members.

  • Photo of Melissa Hamburg

    Mrs. Melissa Hamburg 

    Middle School English Department Chair, Middle School English Teacher
    216-321-8260 x8310
    Bio

Shaker Heights Campus JUNIOR K – GRADE 8

20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122
Phone: (216) 321-8260

Hunting Valley Campus GRADES 9 – 12

2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley, Ohio 44022
Phone: (216) 831-2200
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