Welcome to the English department site. In English classes students will read a wide
variety of literature from the ancient Greeks to Shakespeare to more contemporary authors from various genres including essays, plays, novels, and poetry. They will write for different audiences and purposes with a concentration on expository essays. Students will also study vocabulary, grammar, and literary techniques. Students will workindividually and in groups as they develop their analytical abilities. Classes will focus onthe necessary skills so that students are more able to think and read critically and can then effectively communicate. Our goal is to help our students develop the skills necessary to become better thinkers, readers, and writers which will ensure their success in the 21st Century.
ENGLISH OVERVIEW ~ GRADES 9-12
English, grades 9-12, is required and organized according to ability groupings. Students are placed on the basis of writing competence, reading comprehension, language ability, and work habits. The goal is to realistically challenge all students so that they can perform optimally.
LITERATURE IN ENGLISH grades 9 -12, includes:
An introduction to genres and mythology in the freshman year American Literature in the sophomore year British Literature in the junior year World Literature in the senior year
In addition, grammar, vocabulary, and composition are taught in grades 9 - 12 as part of an integrated program in language arts.
ENGLISH COURSES
Freshmen: Honors 111 and 112 - 113 Sophomores: Honors 121 and 122-123 Juniors: AP Language & Composition 130 and 132-133 Seniors: AP Literature & Composition 141 and 142-143
ENGLISH COURSE LEVELS ~ GRADES 9-12
Honors and Advanced Placement are the most accelerated courses, requiring for success a demonstrated mastery of critical thinking and writing skills. Honors courses prepare students for Advanced Placement English, which in turn prepares them for the Advanced Placement Examination. The Advanced Placement class operates at a level equivalent to a college course. A critical writing average of B+ or better in the previous Honors course is required for enrollment. Students are expected on average to spend one and one-half hours on regularly scheduled homework assignments. Extra summer reading is required.
LEVEL 2 ENGLISH COURSES ARE COLLEGE PREPARATORY. They require demonstrated proficiency in critical thinking, reading and writing skills. Students do not have deficiencies in reading, vocabulary, and critical writing that would hinder success. A critical writing average of B or better in the previous Level 2 course is required for enrollment. Students are expected to spend on average one hour each night on regularly scheduled homework assignments.
LEVEL 3 ENGLISH COURSES ARE COLLEGE PREPARATORY and for students whose demonstrated academic profiles and achievements do not make the Level 2 courses a reasonable choice. Level 3 courses provide a solid foundation for academic work in post-secondary schools and colleges. Emphasis is on improving critical thinking and writing skills, as well as reading and vocabulary. Teachers of Level 3 courses often make provisions for students to do individual work during class time. Homework will generally require three-quarters of an hour to one hour to complete.