Philosophy of Teaching of the Language Arts

It is important to remember, all the other disciplines depend on the mastery of these skills.

Knowledge of grammar and spelling rules, comprehension of literary motifs, and proficiency in written and spoken English are indispensable. Knowledge of Biblical truths, comprehension of fundamental Christian principles and proficiency in sharing scriptural beliefs and practices are of equal (if not greater) import.

“English” comprises four areas:  grammar, spelling and vocabulary, literature, and composition.  Grammar includes the structure and syntax of the language, including governing rules; spelling and vocabulary covers the correct composition, usage and etymology of the language, including its development and fluid state; literature encompasses published works of value and merit, including both the prosaic and the poetic; composition pertains to the act and process of writing, including fiction (short stories, poems, etc.) and non-fiction (essays of various types).

Grammatical knowledge yields a greater understanding of written content.  (For example, comprehension of pronoun usage and inverted sentence structure is crucial to understanding Romans 8:15-25).  Proper grammar also helps to clarify a Christian’s testimony to the unsaved.  Grammar is indispensable to competent communication, which in turn is necessary to the daily life of a Christian.

Correct spelling and a sufficient vocabulary ease communication between individuals; a realization of the mutability of English gives rise to greater appreciation of the accuracy of Biblical translations.  Greater discipline in writing and speaking contributes to a greater control of the tongue (James 3).

Reading literature helps us to make distinctions between Christian and humanistic principles (2 Timothy 3:15-16). By helping to develop a broad base of knowledge, the reading of literary works expands opportunities to share effectively the plan of salvation (as it did for Paul in Athens, Acts 17:16-34).

The skill, discipline, reasoning, and expression involved in composing an essay prepares us to “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” (I Peter 4:15)

Through a righteous study of the elements of English, students develop knowledge of crucial communication skills, gain a greater comprehension of the magnitude of God’s gift of language, and increase proficiency in written or spoken language as tools to communicate with others in a beneficial way.

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