Traditionally, the primary divisions in the language arts are Literature and Language, where language in this case refers to both linguistics, and specific languages^[1].

According to the American National Council of Teachers of English, the five strands of the Language arts are reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing (visual literacy)^{[citation needed]}.

Contents 1 Reading 2 Composition 3 References 4 Bibliography 5 External links

[edit] Reading

Reading, by definition, is the ability and knowledge of a language that allows comprehension by grasping the meaning of written or printed characters, words, or sentences. Reading involves a wide variety of print and nonprint texts that help a reader gain an understanding of what is being read. Reading allows a reader to acquire new information, gain knowledge and understanding, and for personal fulfillment. Reading of texts that are often included in educational curriculum include fiction, nonfiction, classic, and contemporary works.

[edit] Composition

Composition is defined as the combination of distinct parts or elements to form a whole and the manner in which these elements are combined or related. The following are examples of Composition in Language Arts:

• The art or act of composing a literary work
• The structure or organization of literature
• A short essay, especially one written as an academic exercise (an essay is a short literary composition on a particular theme or subject, usually in prose and generally analytic, speculative, or interpretative) ^[2] There are many types of short essays, including, but not limited to:

1. Five-paragraph essay
2. Argumentative essay
3. Cause and effect essay
4. Comparative essay.

Compositions may also include:

• Narrative Essays
• Expository Essays
• Persuasive Essays
• Technical Writing

[edit] References

[edit] Bibliography

• Hacker, Diana. A Pocket Style Manual. New York: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2000.

[edit] External links

• English.purdue.edu