English: These are skills-based courses, strongly emphasizing writing and the development of both analytical and creative compositions. The class introduces students to literary analysis through the use of novels, short stories, and drama, developing their comprehension, analytical abilities and writing competence as they progress.
Students write full-length essays, moving from straight-forward narration/description, to comparison/contrast, cause/effect, reflection and persuasion. Within the context of the various essays, students will develop their ability to write complex sentences, structure and develop an argument, and to recognize areas for revision. Students will write in a variety of modes for a variety of audiences, culminating in a final IT project.
Students will read both fiction and non-fiction, developing their vocabulary, comprehension and analytical skills, responding to their reading both orally and in a variety of written forms.
Honors English: This 11th grade English class for advanced students of English prepares students for the Advanced Placement (AP) English class their senior year by focusing on writing style, both professional and their own.
Students will develop their abilities and skills in reading for style, rhetorical devices, and theme by reading from a wide variety of genre and time periods (mostly nonfiction) . Discussions and outside reading are integral to the class and students are expected to read/write heavily both in and outside of class.
Writing for this class consists of the various rhetorical modes, with emphasis on improving students' stylistic sophistication. Students will write a minimum of two essays a month, with several short writing assignments included each week. The year culminates in an extended project.
Speech: This English elective examines the basic concepts in verbal communication, whether interpersonal, public or creative. Students will study and practice effective strategies for personal and public communication, while discussing key questions such as "What is effective communication?" "How do social situations affect communication?" "How does culture affect understanding?" etc.
