Language Arts Department
LAUNGUAGE ARTS DEPARTMENT
- English 9
Students in the ninth grade classes will encounter a comprehensive study of grammar and mechanics which emphasizes standard usage, agreement, sentence structure, capitalization, punctuation as well as a study of the writing process. Students will study vocabulary, spelling, and word analysis. A brief research paper is required in MLA format, as well as a speech and PowerPoint presentation based on the paper. All types of reading are explored including but not limited to the short story, Shakespearean and modern drama, nonfiction, poetry, the epic, Greek mythology, and young adult literature.
- Pre- AP English 9
The purpose of this class is to help prepare the student for college. A comprehensive study of grammar and mechanics dealing with standard usage, correct agreement, parts of speech, sentence structure, capitalization, and punctuation will be required, as well as a study of the writing process. The student will study vocabulary, spelling, and word analysis regularly. One MLA-style term paper is required, as well as one presentation based on this paper. One of the most important aspects of the class is the reading of novels and literature, both assigned and self-selected. During the summer, each student enrolled in the class may be required to complete a novel reading assignment in addition to written work based on the novel before school begins. Literature units covered during the term include the short story, Shakespearean and modern drama, classic novels, nonfiction, poetry, the epic, Greek mythology, and young adult literature. This course anticipates that the student will progress through the advanced track of English courses.
- English 10
Students in English 10 will primarily encounter a comprehensive study of grammar and reading. This study will emphasize overall sentence structure, punctuation, and usage. Students will reflect their grammar skills through in-class writings such as essays, journals, and the research paper. Reading skills will be taught using a host of sources, such as short stories, plays, novels, poetry, essays, and contemporary non-fictional pieces taken from internet news and various other sources. The main focus in this class will be practical and applicable instruction in writing and reading skills.
- Pre -AP English 10
Prerequisite: Pre-AP English 9 or teacher recommendation/approval
The purpose of this class is to help prepare the student for college. This course involves the study of the writing process with weekly writing assignments required. A comprehensive study of grammar, usage, and mechanics which deals with standard and substandard English, correct agreement, correct use of pronouns, verbs and modifiers, sentence structure and capitalization and punctuation. The student will study vocabulary, spelling, and word analysis on a regular basis. The student will be required to do an MLA-style term paper, as well as a presentation using audiovisual aids. Among the many requirements, one of the most important aspects of the class is the outside reading or the reading of novels and the study of literature, which will include the short story, Shakespearean and contemporary American drama, nonfiction, and poetry. During the summer each student must read two novels selected by the teacher and complete a written assignment for each book. Students will take a test on the reading on the first day of classes. This course anticipates that the student will progress through the advanced track of English courses.
- English 11
This course consists of a thorough study of grammar, usage, mechanics, and sentence structure. There will be assessments throughout, and at the end of each unit, students will be required to apply these rules in in-class essays. Analysis of literature serves as the basis for content of each student essay. The study and application of vocabulary is a primary component of this class. Life communication skills are incorporated into the class study. Finally, the ultimate goal of the course is to help students develop an appreciation for and understanding of twentieth- century American literature.
- Advanced Placement English Language and Composition
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation/Approval
The AP English Language and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level rhetoric and writing curriculum, which requires students to develop evidence-based analytic and argumentative essays that proceed through several stages or drafts. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Throughout the course, students read and analyze the rhetorical elements and their effects in non-fiction texts, including graphic images as forms of text, from many disciplines and historical periods.
- English 12
This course places emphasis on applied proficiency of grammar, usage, mechanics, sentence structure, and sequencing of ideas in student essays. Analysis of literature serves as the basis for content of each in-class, timed essay. In addition, the literature is the source for vocabulary exploration and study. Life communication skills are incorporated into the class study. Finally, the ultimate goal of the course is to help students develop an appreciation for and understanding of British literature.
- Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation/Approval
The AP English Literature and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level literary analysis course. This course engages students in the close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work's structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require students to analyze and interpret literary works.
- Mass Media
*This course does not fulfill one of the English credits required for graduation.
This course provides a survey of the growth and development of mass media in America from historical and analytical perspectives. The course summarizes the principles of the mass communication process and illustrates how that process affects the average consumer of the media. Students will be exposed to mass media problems of the past and present as well as trends that shape the 21st century. The course challenges students to think about the tremendous impact the media have on the political, economic, social, and cultural fabric of their lives. In addition, students, in their role as citizens of a democracy, will examine the relationship of media to government, the fine balance between freedom and controls, the role of media as watchdog, and the need to balance the First Amendment and other rights guaranteed under the Constitution. Students are expected to perform a variety of projects, including multimedia presentations, analysis of media-use patterns, and survey information.