English 9A

This course integrates all the language skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing) and the processes (language and literature) in a thematic organization. The overarching theme for Grade 9 English, Mirrors and Windows, is explored through the study of three units: independence, conflict, and choice. Students experience texts of different genres and forms related to each theme. They participate in a variety of individual and collaborative instructional strategies that help them develop skills and make literary and interdisciplinary connections. Students complete seven common tasks that focus primarily on the writing process. All students begin the compilation of a high school "showcase" portfolio that includes self-reflection of pieces selected for inclusion. Students can take the course at the honors level.

English 9B

This course further develops the theme of Mirrors and Windows through study of three units: communication, relationships, and change. Students continue their study of texts of different genres and forms related to each theme. They read at least three full-length works and various supplementary materials. Students complete six common tasks that include writing and speaking assignments. They complete their Grade 9 "showcase" portfolio, selecting four pieces to show their Grade 10 teacher. Students can take the course at the honors level

English 10A & 10B

English 10, like English 9 is an integrated English language arts program that focuses on reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing skills. However, there is particular emphasis given to speaking and listening skills. The course is organized in six thematic units that relate to the overarching theme of "Journeys," including expression, order, knowledge, leadership, equality, and imagination. Literature studied represents a variety of genres and viewpoints. Students complete mandatory common tasks that require them to create and present a variety of texts to different audiences. Grammar and vocabulary instruction are an integral part of the program. Students can take the course at the honors level.

English 11A & 11B

English 11 builds upon the skills and content addressed in Grades 9 and 10 with the aim that students develop more refined approaches to critical reading and writing. The course is organized in six thematic units that relate to the overarching theme of "Tapestry." Students consider varying landscapes and people's relationships to them, the harmony and dissonance of societies and cultures, and people's heritages, as well as distinct literary forms, problem-based inquiry, and the rhetorical features and structures of language. Students write structured essays and develop creative pieces as common tasks. Literature studied represents a variety of genres and viewpoints. Like previous English courses, grammar and vocabulary instruction are an integral part of the program. Students can take the course at the honors level.

English 11: Advanced Placement Language and Composition A & B

AP Language and Composition A and B are designed for the highly motivated student who wishes to read complex texts with understanding and to write prose of sufficient richness and complexity to communicate effectively with mature readers. Students become skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Both their writing and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer's purposes, audience expectations, and subjects, as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to effectiveness in writing. Students write essays that proceed through several stages or drafts, with revision aided by teacher and peers. The course assumes that students already understand and use standard English grammar. At the end of the course students are prepared and should take the annual Advanced Placement Examination and may receive college English credit or advanced, preferential placement in English. All advanced placement courses are in the honors program.

English 12A & 12B

This course integrates all the language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking, and viewing) and the processes (language and literature) in a thematic organization. Students experience texts of different genres and forms including film, magazines, and newspapers and complete mandatory common tasks. Common tasks focus primarily on developing practical and persuasive forms of communication, such as a college application essay. Instruction in reading and writing strategies, grammar and vocabulary in integrated into every unit. All students reflect on and complete their high school "showcase" portfolios.

English 12: Advanced Placement Literature and Composition A & B

Able 12th-grade students may elect this freshman college-level course as their English program. Within broad guidelines define at the national level, the program stresses practical application of the principles of rhetoric and the close study of a wide selection of challenging literature, both classical and contemporary. Students deepen their understanding of how literature communicates meaning through form and content by reading and discussing work representative of dominant literary genres and themes. Students increase their precision in thought and expression by applying methods of literary analysis; they also write and revise expository and argumentative essays frequently. At the end of the course students are prepared for and should take the annual Advanced Placement Examination in English and may receive college English credit or advanced preferential placement in English.

Film & American Culture

Students will analyze film and screen play texts as a reflection of American culture. Films studied will include both those that have received critical acclaim and those that have been popular with the American viewing audience. Students will examine the American Film Institute's Top 100 Greatest American Movies in relation to historical events and their own concepts of what makes a quality film. Students will study the literary, cinematic, and dramatic aspects of film, examining the effect of the director's choices on the outcome of the work. The internet will be used as a tool for helping students move beyond their own opinions about what they view, and students will engage in activities designed to help them watch film in a more interactive way.

Updated: 9/20/11