Language ArtsAcademic Excellence :

The study of Language Arts prepares students to share ideas, feelings and information in various ways. Effective communication techniques taught in Language Arts courses teach students to send and receive information in a clear, thoughtful manner and to use related knowledge and contexts to synthesize information into meaningful messages.

6+1 Trait Writing Opportunity
Two one-day workshops in 6+1 Trait Writing are being offered June 22 (for K-5 teachers) and June 24 (for 6-12 teachers). Participants will learn how to evaluate student writing using the 6+1 Trait criteria and how to implement teaching strategies aligned with the traits. Select the Calendar link at the top of this page to register.

The Academic Standards in Language Arts
The Academic Standards in Language Arts include reading and literature; writing; and listening, speaking and viewing.  Standards that include components of reading are included in the Language Arts Standards. Copies of the Language Arts Standards are available on this page in both an MS Word and PDF format. An Excel version of the Language Arts standards is available by request.

Language Arts Standards--Revision Timeline to be determined
The Language Arts Academic Standards are scheduled for review in 2009-10. The timeline and revision process is being determined and will be posted on the MDE Website and included in the weekly MDE superintendent mailing. Information related to the revision committee will be posted as it becomes available.

Graduation Requirements
Graduation Requirements for Language Arts (implementation dates are in parentheses):  4 credits - and - Pass Written Composition Grade 9 (2007-08) - and - Pass MCA-II Reading Grade 10 (2007-08). Transition students (those students in Grades 9-12 in 2005-06) must pass the BST Reading and the BST/MCA in Written Composition Grade 10.

For a list of requirements for a specific district--which may include requirements above and beyond state requirements--contact the district administrator's office.

Resources for Language Arts
Visit MN Learning Loop under Related Links. This site, developed by TIES with a grant from MDE, provides classroom resources for teachers, including a searchable database of the Minnesota Academic Standards in Language Arts.

A curriculum and assessment alignment form is now available for Language Arts. This form can be used by schools and online learning providers to document alignment with the standards. An example form is also available to help you get started.

Contact:  Charon Tierney, Instructional Specialist: Language Arts - 651-582-8643

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