English 7
This course stresses basic language skills. A systematic study of grammar, spelling, and vocabulary is integrated with a program of literature, composition, and speech. The writing assignments stress all aspects of correct grammar.
Grade Level: 7

English 8
This course builds upon the basic language skills developed in seventh grade English. It integrates a study of grammar and vocabulary with a program in composition, speech, and literature. Narrative and expository writing skills continue to be stressed.
Grade Level: 8

Rhetorical Skills
This course helps establish competence in the skills of English which are needed in a college preparatory program. Reading focuses on work in vocabulary, comprehension, and literary appreciation. Formal grammar and effective written communication emphasize sentence revision, paragraph formation, and the organization of essays. Effective speaking skills are learned through a variety of individual and group formats. Research techniques are developed through the completion of a large project.
Grade Level: 9

Literature & Composition
The literature program integrates and builds critical thinking and reading skills by analyzing the styles and techniques of different literary genres, including short stories, dramas, poetry, and novels. Writing assignments are done in collaboration with the literature assignments. Students write expository and creative pieces as well as a research paper which uses their library skills. The research paper is done in conjunction with the sophomore World History course.
Grade Level: 10

American Literature & Composition
This course offers a survey of American literature which is organized within dominant themes. Major authors, significant literary movements, and multicultural perspectives are highlighted. Composition and speech are integrated with the reading program, and students do a variety of writing, from informal reading responses to one formal research paper as well as creative writing. Writing focuses include a final push for grammatical and mechanical correctness and an emphasis on development of ideas.
Grade Level: 11

American Studies: English
This survey of American literature draws mainly from works written since 1885 and parallels the American history part of the course, thereby establishing historical context (e.g. Prohibition) for the work being studied (e.g., The Great Gatsby). As in other junior English courses, major writers, significant literary movements, and multicultural perspectives are highlighted. Composition and speech are integrated within the reading program. Student writing ranges from informal journal writing to literary analysis to research projects. Our major research project will be the history of STA, local, state, and U.S. topics placing them within their full historical, literary, and artistic context. Discussion, individual and small group presentations, tests and both creative and analytical work provide a means for student expression and proof of mastery of the material covered.
Prerequisite: Ability and desire to work independently and with a group to succeed in an interdisciplinary class. Satisfies: US History 11. Students must also register for American Studies History and American Studies: Art.
Grade Level: 11

Honors Critical Reading & Writing
This course is designed as preparation for AP English and introduces students to skills needed for reading and writing about literature with critical awareness. The primary emphasis is on major American writers, but the literature studied also includes works from other cultures. Specific techniques for analyzing poems, short stories, novels, and plays are practiced in writing assignments and oral presentations, and emphasis is placed on using textual evidence to support literary interpretations.
Prerequisite: B+ or better in Literature & Composition, 10th Grade instructor's approval
Grade Level: 11

World Literature & Composition
Course material consists of important literary works selected from various cultures. In-depth study of one major work per quarter refines the student’s ability to analyze a text closely. Traditional writing assignments on topics in literary analysis focus on developing the student’s writing skills. Students write a research paper as a major portion of their grade to bring their research and writing skills to the college level. The senior speech requirement is fulfilled as part of the course objective.
Grade Level: 12

Advanced Placement English
AP English is intended for seniors who intend to take the Advanced Placement Exam for possible college credit or placement in an advanced level of college English. AP English is organized around four recurring themes in literature (truth, beauty, goodness, and commitment) with philosophical essays, poetry, fiction (short stories and novels), and drama exploring how these themes are expressed in literary form. Formal papers, timed essays, and multiple-choice tests are used to provide each student with extensive exposure to the types of questions encountered on the AP English examination. The senior speech requirement is fulfilled as part of the course objective.
Prerequisite: B+ or better in Honors Critical Reading & Writing, instructor's approval
Grade Level: 12

HIGH SCHOOL ELECTIVE

Creative Writing
This elective course is open to juniors and seniors interested in varied types of writing. The class is conducted as a writer’s workshop wherein students share their writings and work towards a polished portfolio of their best work. Students actively write for the purposes of creating finished works including, but not limited to, poetry, short stories, essays, memoirs, and drama. Students study models of good writing and varied literary selections. Course can be offered as independent study.
Prerequisite: Submission of writing sample, instructor's approval
Grade Levels: 11, 12

MIDDLE SCHOOL ELECTIVES

Middle School Creative Writing
In this course students learn the basics of creativity and creative writing. Topics include poetry, short stories, plays, and personal narratives. Students will produce a creative writing booklet. Journalism basics will also be introduced, and a Middle School paper will be created. Class graded S/U. First or second semester.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School English Strategies
Students will participate in many word and phrase games as a means toward developing spelling and vocabulary skills. Games will include: Scrabble, Upwords, Hangman, and Boggle. Class graded S/U. Second semester only.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School Independent Reading
This elective is designed to develop the skill of reading and the love of reading. It will give the students an opportunity to read self-selected books, magazines, and newspapers. The students will develop their comprehension skills and reading speed. There is a special unit on improving efficiency in textbook reading. Class graded S/U. First semester only.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Updated January 6, 2012