language arts

American  

[lang-gwij ahrts] / ˈlæŋ gwɪdʒ ˈɑrts /

noun

1. (used with a plural verb) the skills, including reading, composition, speech, spelling, and grammar, taught in elementary and secondary schools to give students a thorough proficiency in using the language.

2. (used with a singular verb) a core course of instruction in an elementary or secondary school where students develop these skills.

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Etymology

Origin of language arts

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Unified third-graders tested as proficient or better in English language arts, closing most of a nearly five-percentage-point gap with the state over three years.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 15, 2026

Currently, high school students need 24 credits to graduate, and many of those credits are in core subjects such as language arts, social studies, math and science.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 12, 2024

Acknowledging the role school librarians play in that effort, the new media literacy law directs state officials to incorporate model library standards in the K-12 English language arts curriculum next year.

From Washington Times • Dec. 5, 2023

In the year prior to the pandemic, in English language arts, 77% of the school’s students tested as far below proficient — the lowest category.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 4, 2023

On my way to language arts, I passed the school newspaper office, which gave me a new idea.

From "Liar, Liar" by Gary Paulsen