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English Department

ENGLISH I stresses the development and refinement of writing skills through the use of computer technology. Through the writing process, students will work on the development of well-supported paragraphs. Students will review vocabulary and grammar usage and will read short stories, novels, selections from mythology, and a Shakespearean play. In addition, they will be required to do some independent reading outside of class. Information literacy skills will be taught, and students will complete a career project and several creative projects.

ENGLISH I (H) focuses on the refinement of writing skills through the use of computer technology; the revision step of the writing process will be emphasized. Students will also review vocabulary and grammar usage. In addition to the literature studied in English I, students will have outside reading and writing assignments each quarter. Information literacy skills will be taught, and students will complete a comprehensive career project and several creative projects, among them an original short story.

ENGLISH II is a reinforcement of the writing skills, vocabulary study, and grammar review done in the freshman year. Students read short stories, poetry, novels, and a Shakespearean play. Sophomores are
expected to recognize the technical aspects of the readings, i.e., the elements of poetry and fiction. Comprehension skills such as drawing conclusions and making inferences are emphasized in all readings. Special projects include one on poetry, a college information search, and one other research assignment. Prerequisite: English I (1 credit)

ENGLISH II (H) continues the vocabulary study, mastery of the basic composition and grammar skills is expected; individual and class reviews of these skills are presented as needed. Students read short stories, poetry, novels, and Shakespearean plays. Sophomores are expected to recognize the technical aspects of the readings, i.e., the elements of poetry and prose fiction. Comprehension skills such as drawing conclusions and making inferences are emphasized in all readings. Special projects include one on poetry, a college information search, and a research project involving critical analysis of works read. Creative writing assignments are regularly given. Teacher approval. Prerequisite: English I (1 credit)

ENGLISH III is a chronological and thematic survey of American literature. Students are required to read supplemental American novels/plays and to complete analytical projects on these works. In composition, thesis development, organization, unity, coherence, and selective vocabulary are stressed. An MLA-format research paper with a focus on literary analysis and criticism. A research paper is required of all juniors. Prerequisite: English II (1 credit)

ENGLISH III (H) covers the English III material more comprehensively. Additional assignments of a more challenging nature are provided to honors students. Students read a minimum of ten supplemental American novels each year and are expected to complete a writing project with each novel read. Their research paper is literary in nature and requires the extensive development and support of a limited thesis. Teacher approval. Prerequisite: English II (1 credit)

AP ENGLISH III LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION is a college-level course that focuses on the College Board AP curriculum for composition and language. The course will include more independent reading and in-class timed writing. Emphasis is placed on critical and analytical writing skills. It incorporates American literature. A fee is assessed for the textbook and College Board Exam. Student is required to take the national advanced placement exam in order to receive AP credit. Application required. Teacher approval. Prerequisite: English II (1 credit)

ENGLISH IV provides a survey of the literature of Great Britain and selected world literature. Students will be required to read short stories, essays, poetry, plays, and novels. The course offers a review of basic grammar rules, diction, syntax, and their application in composition. In composition, skills in thesis development, organization, unity, coherence, and selective vocabulary will be reinforced. In addition to writing essays analyzing literature, students will write expository, descriptive, narrative and persuasive essays. Development of skills in critical and analytical reading will be emphasized. Prerequisite: English III (1 credit)

ENGLISH IV (H) provides the same study of British literature and world literature as described above. Students will read additional Shakespearean plays and novels. Their study of literature is more analytical, and the students are required to make comparative analysis of major literary works. In composition, the assignments will provide a greater challenge and help students refine skills in timed analytical writing, creative writing, and literary style. Teacher approval. Prerequisite: English III (1 credit)

AP ENGLISH IV LITERATURE & COMPOSITION is a college-level English course for seniors that provides an in-depth study of British and world literature while placing a greater emphasis on critical and analytical writing skills. Students are required to do more independent reading and more in-class timed writings. The class focuses on developing the students' powers of analysis and synthesis to the highest possible level. Student is required to take the national advanced placement exam in order to receive AP credit. A fee is assessed for the textbook and College Board Exam. Teacher recommendation. Prerequisite: English III Honors or AP English III (1 credit)

READING I (R) & II (R) are for students whose standardized test scores indicate a need for improvement in basic English and reading skills. The first freshman level course will stress reading comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary. It will also cover remediation in basic grammar skills and study skills. The sophomore level course will cover advanced skills in the above topics. Academic Support Committee approval. (Open to freshmen and sophomores) (1 credit each)

STUDY SKILLS I (R) & II (R) are designed for students whose standardized test scores indicate a need for improvement in basic English and reading skills. The course will include basic study skills including time management, organization, note taking, and test preparation. The second level course will include a review of basic skills and the use of critical thinking skills. Also included are strategies for studying specific subject areas. Course work will include the application of actual skills to academic classes. Academic Support Committee approval. (Open to juniors and seniors) (1 credit each)

CREATIVE WRITING - The main focuses of this course include 5-10 minute writing warm-ups in a graded daily journal, exploratory writing, and various types of writing (poetry, themes, essays, journalism, etc.). Since writing is the main focus of this class, dedication, attitude, and attendance are a must! By-products of the class may include the school newspaper, a literary magazine, hardcover publication/copyright of personal essays, and writing a hero story for kindergartners. (Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors) (1 credit)