| Grade 9 | Grade 10 | Grade 11 | Grade 12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| English I (3,4,5) | English II (3,4,5) *Cultural Literacy (3,4) |
English III (3,4,5) *Speech & Drama (3) *Cultural Literacy (3,4) *Effective Writing (4) |
English IV (3,4,5+) *Speech & Drama (3) *Cultural Literacy (3,4) *Effective Writing (4) *Themes in Literature & Film (3) |
| Eng as Second Lang I | Eng as Second Lang I or II | Eng as Second Lang II |
|
English I (3, 4, 5) Grade 9 This Freshman course provides students with an introduction to literary genres (short story, novel, poetry, drama, essay, etc.) and serves as the basis for continued study of literature in successive years. Included in this course is a review of the fundamentals of English grammar and composition as well as vocabulary development. Phase 5 offers exceptional students the opportunity for in-depth analysis of literature and exposes them to the critical evaluation of literary works. Students are expected to complete extensive daily reading from the text and additional outside novels. Extensive writing assignments emphasize research and critical analysis. Phase 4 challenges advanced students with in-depth study of the literature and encourages students to think independently and critically. Extensive selections from the text are assigned as well as significant outside reading and writing assignments. Phase 3 provides average students with the fundamental reading and writing skills essential for continued study of literature. Required reading includes selected literary works from the text as well as several additional novels. Basic compositions are also assigned.
This survey course in American literature includes a study of the various literary periods and the historical influences of traditional American writers. The curriculum also offers continued development of skills in grammar and composition and focuses on mechanics and usage, reference and study skills, and vocabulary development. Phase 5 provides exceptional students with an opportunity for the intense study of American literature and requires individual research and analysis of the literature. Assignments include extensive daily reading and numerous outside paperbacks along with significant writing assignments based on student research. Phase 4 emphasizes readings from both primary and secondary sources as advanced students complete a chronological survey of American literature. Works are analyzed with attention to their literary as well as their historical significance. Numerous selections from the text are supplemented by selected novels from the various literary periods studied. Written assignments are frequent and require student analysis of the literary works. Phase 3 offers average students the opportunity to study representative works of American literature and emphasizes the literary works in a historical context. Selections from the text are supplemented by several outside readings. Students will be expected to complete composition assignments each marking period based on their reading.
English III (3, 4, 5) Grade 11
English IV (3, 4, 5) Grade 12 Phase 3, geared for the average student, emphasizes works from the text itself with guided analysis. Several additional paperbacks are assigned, and written compositions as well as a research paper are required.
*Speech and Drama (3) Grade 11, 12 This course is designed to strengthen, improve and refine skills of self-expression in written form. The class is organized as an intensive workshop that offers the student a variety of writing experiences. Students should possess an avid interest in writing and a willingness to experiment with new forms of effective writing. Prerequisites: Pre-registration interview with instructor, submission of a writing sample, and written approval by the instructor. *Cultural Literacy (3,4) Grade 10, 11, 12 This course is designed to foster an interest in and appreciation for high culture and art. Units will focus on topics such as visual arts, music, theater, cinema, artifacts, cuisine, and architecture. The curriculum will include outings wherever possible. Projects and assignments will require an appreciation of the specimens of culture profiled. Phase 4 students will be required to produce more analytic commentary and writing, while phase 3 students must demonstrate a general familiarity with artistic expressions and the circumstances from which those expressions have arisen. Students are not expected to be musically or artistically inclined. *Themes in Literature and Film (3) Grade 12 This course is designed to encourage the reluctant reader to recognize and analyze the connection that historical events, human emotions and culture have to literature and film. Each marking period will explore a different theme using various literary genre (short fiction, poetry, essays) as well as appropriate movies and documentaries. The student will be asked to apply his/her own experiences in class discussion and writing. Projects may include research, creative writing, and creation of original videos. Prerequisites: This course is open to seniors who are Phase 3 English English as a Second Language (ESL) I (3) Grade 9, 10 This course, designed for students who have little or no communication skills in English, is presented in two stages. The brief introductory course is an integrated program designed for the beginning student. The Basic Course, stage two, begins at the elementary level and, through special "modules", helps the student to develop oral, written and reading skills. Supplemental modules assist students in the development of skills in the following areas: conversation, pronunciation, listening comprehension, vocabulary, and reading. (Fee) Text: New Horizons in English Prerequisite: Recommendation of English department and/or Administration English as a Second Language (ESL) II (3) Grade 10 This course is a comprehensive language learning program intended to complement the traditional work on grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary and the four skill areas of speaking, listening, reading and writing. Students are encouraged to express themselves via all standard methods of communication as they learn about facets of everyday American life, thus combining the development of their communication skills with an understanding of American culture and customs. (Fee) Text: New Horizons in English Prerequisite: Recommendation of English department and/or Administration |