Language Arts
A Foundation in Thinking, Speaking, and Writing Clearly
Rooted in the Carden Method, our Language Arts program goes far beyond traditional reading and writing instruction. At Carden Conejo, Language Arts is the heart of learning—building the foundation for thoughtful communication, critical analysis, and joyful self-expression across all subjects.
What We Teach
-
Kindergarten
- Letter sounds and phonemic awareness
- Carden Controls introduction
- Oral storytelling and picture-based vocabulary
- Beginning sentence structure (capitalization, punctuation)
- Copywork and early journaling
-
1st Grade
- Daily phonics instruction and word building
- Parts of speech: noun, verb, adjective
- Oral reading groups and fluency
- Sentence writing and introduction to composition
- Weekly poetry memorization
-
2nd Grade
- Grammar expansion: pronouns, adverbs, contractions
- Dictation, creative writing, and editing
- Literature discussion and comprehension strategies
- Beginning paragraph structure
- Continued recitation and drama practice
-
3rd Grade
- Complex sentence writing and paragraph development
- Independent reading with visualization
- Grammar drills and spelling patterns
- Literature response writing and book reports
- Oral presentations and expressive reading
-
4th Grade
- Advanced grammar: subject-verb agreement, tenses
- Multi-paragraph essays and research skills
- Literature analysis and vocabulary study
- Note-taking and outlining
- Public speaking projects
-
5th Grade
- Strong focus on expository and persuasive writing
- Figurative language, idioms, and literary devices
- Debate and discussion
- Formal presentations and storytelling
- Grammar mastery
-
6th Grade
- Essay writing across genres
- Literary analysis and critical thinking
- Advanced grammar and editing
- Independent reading projects
- Speaking with clarity and conviction
What Makes Our Program Unique
- Phonetic Foundations: Beginning in early childhood, students are taught to hear and produce sounds accurately using the Carden Controls—a unique tool that makes decoding and spelling second nature.
- Grammar and Sentence Analysis: Students learn to identify parts of speech, sentence structure, and the mechanics of language—enhancing both their writing and critical thinking.
- Mental Imagery and Comprehension: Instead of relying on pictures, students are taught to visualize what they read, strengthening focus, comprehension, and imagination.
- Daily Writing & Expression: From journals to essays to creative storytelling, writing is woven throughout each day, helping students develop clarity and confidence.
- Memorization and Public Speaking: Weekly poetry recitations and classroom presentations build poise, verbal fluency, and stage presence.
- Rich Vocabulary Development: Students build a strong working vocabulary through context-based learning, word families, root word studies, and more.
Why It Matters
Language Arts isn’t just a subject at Carden Conejo—it’s a way of thinking, expressing, and engaging with the world. Alumni often say that the speaking, writing, and comprehension skills they developed here prepared them not only for middle and high school—but for life
Experience the difference of Carden Conejo.
Schedule a Tour
Please tell us about yourself.
Each day, we nurture the wonder within—helping little ones grow with laughter, learning, and love that lasts a lifetime.
6th Grade
A Confident Step Toward Middle School Independence
Sixth grade is a capstone year where students build advanced skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and critical thinking while preparing for the transition to middle school. With increasing independence and leadership opportunities, sixth graders grow into capable, thoughtful learners ready for the next chapter of their academic journey.
Core Subjects
-
Language Arts
- Advanced grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary
- Essay writing, literary analysis, and creative writing
- Independent and group novel studies
- Oral presentations and poetry recitations
- Critical reading and response journals
-
Mathematics
- Phonics-based reading instruction with focus on fluency and comprehension
- Daily reading groups and individual practice
- Grammar, sentence structure, and parts of speech
- Creative writing and journal entries
- Spelling lists, rules, and weekly assessments
- Memorization and oral recitation to build public speaking confidence
-
Science
- Phonics-based reading instruction with focus on fluency and comprehension
- Daily reading groups and individual practice
- Grammar, sentence structure, and parts of speech
- Creative writing and journal entries
- Spelling lists, rules, and weekly assessments
- Memorization and oral recitation to build public speaking confidence
-
Social Studies
- Phonics-based reading instruction with focus on fluency and comprehension
- Daily reading groups and individual practice
- Grammar, sentence structure, and parts of speech
- Creative writing and journal entries
- Spelling lists, rules, and weekly assessments
- Memorization and oral recitation to build public speaking confidence
Specialist Classes
-
French
- Conversational French, basic grammar, reading and writing
- Cultural studies of Francophone countries
- Role-play, songs, and vocabulary expansion
-
Music & Performing Arts
- Vocal development and musical notation
- Instrument exploration (e.g., guitar, keyboard, or percussion)
- Theatrical performance and public speaking
- Group performance in seasonal productions
-
Creative Arts
- Weekly studio art projects with various media
- Perspective drawing, shading, and color theory
- Artist studies (e.g., Da Vinci, Warhol, Cezanne)
- Cross-curricular art connections to social studies and literature
-
Physical Education
- Team sports, fitness routines, and leadership games
- Strength, endurance, coordination, and flexibility
- Emphasis on good sportsmanship and perseverance
- Presidential Physical Fitness program
-
Technology
- Research skills and safe digital navigation
- Keyboarding and productivity tools
- Presentation building (e.g., Google Slides or Canva)
- Digital citizenship and media literacy
Character & Social Development
- Student leadership roles and classroom responsibilities
- Weekly reflections and goal-setting
- Kindness, empathy, and peer mentorship
- Opportunities to lead group projects and school events
Typical Day in 6th Grade
The school day begins with warm greetings, homeroom check-in, and organizational support. Mornings focus on core academic subjects and rich discussion, while afternoons allow time for enrichment classes, collaborative projects, and independent learning. Students learn time management and personal accountability in a supportive environment that values both structure and freedom.
Experience the difference of Carden Conejo.
Schedule a Tour
Please tell us about yourself.