Literature at Regina Pacis Academy
Literature is a delightful playground for children to take joy in the exercise of their imaginations. Our children are enriched by reading beautiful literature, aiding in the formation of their person. Achieving a strong culture of reading and writing is a main goal at Regina Pacis Academy.
The study of literature encompasses many subject areas including, but not limited to, reading, writing (both composition and mechanics), phonics, vocabulary, public speaking, and poetry. Students learn to read well by reading both efficiently and insightfully. The reading program fosters a love of books and literature while also rigorously teaching practical skills in reading comprehension.
In Kindergarten through Grade 2, even before many students can read fluently, the teacher reads classic literature out loud so that from the beginning students are exposed to beautiful language that engages their minds. As students learn to read independently, they read fiction and poetry that is thoughtfully chosen, elegantly written, and inspirational. The works are chosen to promote deep discussion about moral choices and Christian values. In Grades 2 through 4, the Junior Great Books series, for instance, draws on classic fairy and folk tales to develop reading skills in different forms and to encourage class discussions. As they progress through the grades, beginning in Grade 2, the students read and discuss novels. By the time students are in Grades 7 and 8, we expect them to be able to read challenging classic novels and poems, including the annual study of a Shakespeare play. In Grade 7/8, the study of literature runs in tandem with the study of history.