6 Language Arts + Sahara

I was surprised to find that listening was included in the 6 language arts. I had never thought about listening as something that needs to be taught or worked on. I was even more surprised to find out that there are different kinds of listening: aesthetic, efferent, and critical.

Viewing and visually representing are the newest additions to the list. By adding them to the list, we are condoning the digital and media influences on children. However, these influences do not have to be a bad thing. Viewing and visually representing are ways that children can improve their listening, writing, and reading skills. If these two language arts were not on the list, we would neglect the needs of many children in today's society.

I have had a lot of experience with all of the language arts. My favorite would have to be viewing. Who doesn't like watching a movie, even if it is educational. The language art that has played the most important role in my academic career is reading. Reading allows me to gain knowledge from books, the internet, and teachers. Reading has always been one of my favorite language arts. Another one of my favorite language arts is visually representing. Given the choice to write a paper or make a poster, I would choose the poster. I love being creative. I expect that this language art will always remain one of my favorites.

So far, I am really enjoying Sahara Special. I like that the author made Sahara seem like a real kid who speaks her mind. I can relate to her family issues. I remember a boy just like the one that she sat in the hall way with. I also like that the author uses details that allow you to get a picture in your head of what is happening. I'm looking forward to the next chapter.