Sioux City Community Schools -

English and language arts (ELA) is one of the most basic and widely taught subjects in the United States, and it’s no wonder why.

Through reading, writing, speaking, and listening, students build the essential skills to both transmit and receive information. While these skills are essential to career readiness, they are equally essential for us to experience a meaningful life within which we build a deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and the world around us.

The English and Language Arts standards for grades 6-12 illustrate what your child will learn by the end of each grade, as directed by the Iowa Core, our statewide academic standards. The English and Language Arts Iowa Core standards focus on key concepts in reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. These standards correspond to the College and Career Readiness (CCR) anchor standards.

In middle school, there is a greater focus on complex reading comprehension, grammar, creative expression, and expanded vocabulary.

In high school, students take required courses, which weave together all five skills of language arts, in order to gain a thorough understanding of literature and its value. Students will be able to research, write, analyze, interpret, dissect, and discuss complex topics.