Pace’s Lower School literacy program develops passionate, lifelong readers, writers and communicators who think critically about the world around them. Our approach to literacy instruction incorporates foundational and high-level thinking skills to ensure that Pace readers and writers learn to apply their knowledge of spelling, phonics, grammar and vocabulary independently and with others. With two teachers in each homeroom, faculty differentiate instruction for small groups and individual students.

Daily literacy instruction includes reading, writing and classroom discussions where students apply their comprehension skills, share their thoughts and opinions, and actively listen to others. In each grade level, students read a rich variety of fiction and non-fiction books, both independently and with their peers. Favorite award-winning novels include E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web and a contemporary classic, Pam Muñoz White’s Esperanza Rising.

Students become proficient and confident writers through the process of prewriting, writing, revising and presenting a final piece. Teachers conference with students individually, providing regular feedback and time for editing. Students also learn how to reflect on their own work and the work of their peers.