At Lake Bluff Middle School, communication is no longer just a part of language arts; it’s the focus of a bold new course designed to equip sixth graders with essential skills for middle school and beyond. Co-taught by social studies and science teachers, the new communications class is already making a big impact across subjects and skill areas.
“Our goal was to build a foundation of communication skills that students will use across all subjects, and throughout their lives,” said Jane Twohig, one of the lead educators behind the course. “By integrating this class into sixth grade, we’re giving students tools they’ll apply in social studies, science, and beyond for the next several years.”
This work is a true team effort, with Brooke McKean, Emmett Flannery, Brian DeYoung, Tommie Arens, and Susanna Cuarto collaborating alongside Twohig to create and deliver the course. Their unified vision ensures every student benefits from a guaranteed, viable curriculum in communication skills.
From crafting TED-style talks with green-screen technology to learning to format a professional email, the course covers the full spectrum of communication: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
One especially meaningful unit asked students to interview a family member about their memories of 9/11. “That was a powerful moment,” said Twohig. “Not only did students learn interview skills and article writing, but they also connected deeply with their parents about a historic event, bringing empathy and understanding to the forefront of their learning.”
The course also supports academic success through intentional cross-curricular connections. Students practice writing evidence-based claims, a skill critical to science, and document-based questions (DBQs), which are foundational to social studies.
“This approach lets us ensure every sixth grader has a guaranteed, viable curriculum,” Twohig explained. “We know they’ve all been introduced to the core skills they’ll need, which helps our entire teaching team, and ultimately supports each student’s growth.”
Beyond the classroom, students are also developing life skills, like how to greet someone with eye contact and a handshake. “We want students to understand that reading, writing, speaking, and listening aren’t just school subjects,” said Twohig. “These are lifelong skills they’ll use in all kinds of real-world situations.”
As for how students are responding? “They’re all in,” said Twohig. “They’re curious, engaged, and starting to see how what they’re learning now will matter tomorrow. And that’s what it’s all about.”
At Lake Bluff District 65, this new course is more than just a class; it’s a launchpad for future-ready learners.