Teaching Language Arts involve the literature such as classic works and the young adult literature (YAL). In order for the work to be more accessible, there should be a variety of genres. This way students can have a broader idea of themes instead of just a single plot. Teaching literature could also come in the form of modern poetry, graphic novels and films. Integrating literature from writers of diverse backgrounds makes literature study more effective because students can discover and connect recurring themes and values. Students can appreciate it and relate to it in a much more personal level (Sullivan, 2005).
Reading should be done for pleasure. Enjoying reading will make them better readers as adults and more aware of the world around them. Cultivating a love of reading in students is essential. Letting students explore their reading tastes would encourage students to read some more (Sullivan, 2005).
Writing is a means of expressing one's view. Reading is studying other's viewpoints. Teaching students to write would help them communicate clearly, clarify thinking, present their views. Teaching students how to brainstorm, express their feelings and develop awareness are essential in writing. Students should also be exposed to a variety of writing genres such as formal, informal, essays, poems and others (Sullivan, 2005).
Organization and structure are the most important aspects of writing. But the focus should be on expression of ideas not just the format.
Grammar and Revision are tools important to writing. Even if these rules can sometimes be restrictive but learning them enables the student to write more effectively. Grammar rules can be flexible. Since the use of language influences how others view us, it is important that students learn it well. Keeping grammar journals could be a way to attain a better understanding of the process (Sullivan, 2005).
Every written piece goes to a process of drafts, editing, review and revisions. This should also be learned in the classroom. Written pieces should be edited for content and mechanices.
