The teachers in the San Marcos Middle School English/Language Arts Department believe all students can learn. It is our goal that our students will acquire the necessary English language skills to become better communicators, independent learners, and life-long readers. We know that when our students can read, write, speak and think clearly in English, they will be more successful in school and in their life beyond school. We are committed to using a wide variety of resources including literature, drama, art, technology, music and film to help all our students strengthen their English language skills.

In our English/Language Arts classes students will read fiction, nonfiction, drama, essays, informational/nonfiction texts and poetry to better understand how people communicate information, ideas, and emotions. They will learn how to use library resources, including the Internet, to research a variety of topics. Students will learn to write personal and fictional narratives, informational and persuasive essays, business and career related documents, as well as to respond to literature. They will have the opportunity to gain confidence as public speakers, as they practice giving informative, entertaining and persuasive speeches.

The core works of literature read in sixth grade include Hatchet, Wonder, and Beowulf. Many nonfiction/informational texts come from "Scope" Magazine through Scholastic and the common core articles.

As teachers of English/Language Arts, we believe the strength and health of our nation depend on well-educated citizens. It is our goal to prepare our San Marcos Middle School students to be clear-thinking, confident adults, who can comprehend and communicate effectively about the myriad of issues we face today.

Sixth grade teachers:

•  Katrina Preece
•  Joy Leichtfuss
• Jill Kirby