Eight semesters of English are required for graduation. The overall goal of the English program is critical thinking and effective communication, both written and verbal, reached through close examination of literature and informational texts. Students analyze literary and informational works, relying on shared inquiry methods for discussions and formal writing assignments. Writing assignments (both analytical and creative), verbal skills (in both discussions and presentations), and vocabulary all stem from the works studied. Grammar is taught in the context of the writing assignments. Classes contain a wide variety of genres, styles, and periods of literature in order to help students develop an appreciation for the subject matter. Students should complete their Summer Reading prior to the first day of school.

COURSES

9th Grade

• English 9

10th Grade

• Great Books
• Honors Great Books

11th Grade

• American Literature
• AP English Language & Composition

12th Grade

• Writing from Literature
• Literature and Film
• Philosophy in Literature
• AP English Literature & Composition