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English 9-1, 2
English 9-1, 2 HD
English 9-3 and 9-3 HD Writing and Beyond
English 10-1, 2
English 10-1, 2 HD
Honors World Strudies (English 10-1,
2 HD/World History and Civilization 1, 2 HD)
English 11
English 11 HD
American Studies (English 11 and United
States History 1, 2)
American Studies HD (English 11-1, 2
Regular and HD; US History 1, 2 Regular and HD)
English 11-1, 2 HD and AP Language
and Composition
English 12-1 Oral Communication
English Literature 1, 2 (11-12)
Ethnic Literature:
African-American Literature(12)
AP Literature and Composition 1, 2
Advanced Composition
Genres of Literature: College
Literature/Literary Interpretation
Speech
English 12-2 Literature, Mass
Media and Career Exploration
Creative Writing
Film and Literature
Genres of Literature: American Crime Fiction
Etymology: Greek and Latin Derivatives
Journalism 1, 2
Newspaper Staff
Yearbook Staff
Poetry
Peer tutors for Regular and Inclusion
Education Classes
Media Productions
English 9-1, 2
(Required) [TOP]
During the two terms of this
required course, students will focus on major language art skills:
vocabulary,
spelling, library use, grammar/mechanics/usage, composition, reading
strategies, oral
communication, and literature.
English 9-1, 2 HD
(Required) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: Must pass 8th
grade English with a grade of ‘B’ or better.)During the two
terms of this
required course, students will focus on major language arts skills: vocabulary, spelling, library use,
grammar/mechanics/usage, composition, reading strategies, oral
communication,
and literature. A variety of enrichment activities will be utilized.
This
course is strongly recommended for students who are college-bound.
(Suggested
grade of A or B from 8th Grade English.) SUMMER READING REQUIRED. Choose one.
English 9-3 and 9-3 HD Writing and
Beyond (Writer's Workshop) [TOP]
(Required of all Freshmen) (Prerequisite: English
9-1, 2)
This course is a composition
class in which students will work intensively with the nomenclature of
grammar
and mechanics and their application to writing skills. The purpose of
this course is to provide intensive work in analytical reading and
writing with
additional work on grammar, vocabulary, and reading- based questions.
Students
will write various types of essays (narrative, descriptive,
argumentative,
persuasive, creative) and model various writing styles. This course
will
utilize the writing workshop environment in which writing products will
move
from prewriting to publication.
English 10-1, 2
(Required) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: sophomores must
have taken English 9 or English 9 HD.) This year will continue the
emphasis on
the major language arts skills: vocabulary, spelling, library skills,
grammar/mechanics /usage, composition, reading strategies, oral
communication,
and literature. The multicultural literature stresses an understanding
and
appreciation for the universality of the human experience and
recognition of
the relevance of literature in today's world. The literature will
provide a
focus for literary analysis in reading and expository writing.
English
10-1, 2 HD (Required)
[TOP]
(Prerequisite: sophomore level
- must have passed English 9 with a grade of B or better.) This course
covers a
wide variety of world literature stressing an understanding and
appreciation of
the universality of the human experience and recognition of the
relevance of
literature in today's world. It will include representative works from
classical through modern times. Extensive writing and research will be
required. There will be a continuing emphasis on vocabulary/spelling,
library
skills, grammar/mechanics/usage, composition, and
speech. This course is
strongly recommended for students who are college-bound.Summer reading
required. Honors World Studies
Honors World
Studies (English 10-1, 2 HD/World History and Civilization 1, 2 HD) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: sophomore level
- must have passed English 9 with a grade of B or better.) This class
combines
both English 10 HD and World History and Civilization HD, integrating
the
literature and history of Eastern and Western civilization from its
origin to
the present. This course, taught by faculty members from Language Arts
and
Social Studies, awards two English credits and two Social Studies
credits. This
course will complete the State Proficiencies for both World History 1-2
and
English 10 1-2 HD. Please see the course descriptions for English 10 HD
and
World History and Civilization. SUMMER READING
REQUIRED. Students may not withdraw from this course before the end of
a
trimester.
English 11
[TOP]
(Prerequisite: junior or above
having passed English 9 or English 9 HD and English 10 or English 10
HD. This
course traces American ideas through various periods and literary
movements.
The course is taught in the same year as American History so the two
courses
can reinforce each other. Students will read, research, and write to
understand, analyze, and evaluate the cultural aspects of our American
literary
history. All of the language arts basic skills are integrated
into each unit. The course will also focus on oral communication, mass
media,
and the power of advertising. The course will emphasize hands-on
learning
whenever possible.
English 11 HD [TOP]
(Prerequisite: junior or above
having passed English 9 or English 9 HD and English 10 or English 10
HD. This
course traces American ideas through various periods and literary
movements,
focusing on literary analysis and critical writing skills. Basic
language arts
skills will still be emphasized, particularly vocabulary development;
application of grammar/mechanics/usage/ spelling skills within the
writing
component; oral communication; and library research skills. This course
will
require extensive research and writing and is strongly recommended for
students
who are college-bound. SUMMER READING
REQUIRED.
American Studies (English 11 and
United States History 1, 2) [TOP]
This class combines both
English 11 (American Literature) and United States History and
integrates the
literature and history of America
from its origins to the present. This course, taught by faculty
members from Language Arts and Social Studies, awards two English
credits and
two Social Studies credits. This course will complete the State
Proficiencies
for both United States History 1-2 and English 11 1-2. Please see the
course
descriptions for English 11 and United States History. Student must
also sign
up for US History, American Studies. Students may not withdraw from
this course
before the end of the trimester.
American Studies HD (English
11-1, 2 Regualr and HD; US History 1, 2 Regular and HD)
[TOP]
United States History 1-2,
Regular and HD) An integrated studies approach to literature and
history,
American Studies will provide you with an understanding of our
literature
within the context of our history. The classes run back-to-back and
continue
over two trimesters. Two teachers provide hands-on-learning, integrated
projects, field trip learning experiences, and double the help
available to you
for class and homework. The class awards two English credits and two
Social
Studies credits and completes the State Proficiencies for English 1-2
and U.S.
History 1-2. Please see the course descriptions for English 11 and U.S.
History. And summer reading is required. A challenging curriculum is
required
for Honors students taking the course this way.
English 11
1-2 HD and AP
Language and Composition
[TOP]
(Prerequisite: Open to Juniors
only who have received a B or above in 9 HD and 10 HD) This course
combines
English 11 HD and AP Language and Composition. The American literature
component traces American ideas through various periods and literary
movements,
focusing on literary analysis and critical
writing skills. The AP component focuses intensely on writing skills by
examining models and by analyzing individual styles. Both the 11 HD and
AP Language and Composition teach
the application of grammar/ mechanics/usage/spelling/syntax within the
writing
component. Students will do extensive research and writing including
weekly,
in-class essays and periodic research papers. This course is designed
to
prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Language and
Composition exam
given in the spring to earn college credit hours. English 11 HD and AP
Language
and Composition also satisfy Honors Diploma requirements for high
school credits. SUMMER READING
REQUIRED.
English 12-1 Oral
Communication (one term) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: completion of
English 9-11) Oral communication or speech is designed to help students
gain
confidence in their ability to communicate clearly and effectively
through
various speaking experiences. Students learn techniques for effective
use of
the voice, analyze wellknown speeches and professional performances,
and
practice the oral interpretation of selected works. This course
stresses basic
skills in language, writing, research, and critical thinking. It is
part of the
recommended sequence for those students
in the regular diploma level.
Students cannot take both English 12-1 and Speech. Students may not
withdraw
from this course before the end of a trimester.
English Literature 1, 2
(11-12) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: seniors must
have passed English 10 and English 11 with a C or better; juniors must
have
completed English 10 or English 10 HD with a C or better.) This course
is
college preparatory. English Literature provides a survey of
representative
literature produced by English speaking authors, including those in the
British Isles as well as those
in the former British
colonies. This course explores the literature from the Anglo-Saxon
period to
the Twentieth Century. A strong emphasis on critical writing and
outside
assigned novels is basic to this course as well as the study of
literary
movements and intellectual trends. This course counts towards an Honors
diploma.
Ethnic Literature: African-American
Literature (12) (one term) [TOP]
(This course fulfills 1
required senior English credit Prerequisite: completion English 9-11.)
What is
American? Is skin color important? Does race continue to matter today?
While
the United States
is famous for being a melting pot for all races and colors, many
problems continue
to exist for minorities. In African-American Literature we will read
works from
authors who are often skimmed in literature books, instead of studied.
Rather
than reading one novel that addresses the subject of race, we will read
many
books, articles, poems, essays, and speeches. From Negro spirituals to
Maya
Angelou’s “On the Pulse of the
Morning,”African-American
Literature covers themes of heartbreak, loss, and freedom.
African-American
Literature can be found in many time periods, from slavery to
the Harlem Renaissance to hip-hop
writings today. This course qualifies as a Core 40 course, fulfills an
English
requirement, but it is not an honors course.
AP Literature and Composition 1, 2
(12) [TOP]
(Prerequisites: HD level
courses in Language Arts through English 11 with grades of A or B.)
This course
is designed to prepare specifically and rigorously for the AP
Literature and
Composition Exam. The course will focus on analysis of fiction and
poems and
discussions of literacy concerns in major works of recognized literary
merit.
Students will work on the skills of literary analysis and the ability
to
express ideas in clear, convincing prose. The course emphasizes
critical
thinking through discussion and writing. Students are expected to take
the AP
Literature and Composition Exam in the spring. SUMMER READING REQUIRED.
Advanced Composition (ACP W131) (one
term) [TOP]
(Prerequisites: Students must
have completed English 11 and retain the period. A major goal is to develop the
ability to
read and write with precision, responsibility, and imagination through
class
discussion and the writing of several short, critical responses. These
papers
are to be developed entirely from students' own careful reading and
analysis.
Close reading of a few selected texts, rather than wide coverage, is
encouraged. Students will be expected to use and distinguish among a
variety of
approaches to literary interpretation, both through
the use of literary tropes and various critical frames, as appropriate
to each
work.
Speech (9-12) (one term) [TOP]
This course is appropriate for
9-12 graders who express a desire for public speaking. Within the
course,
students will not only learn the fundamentals of public speaking, but
also have the opportunity to
practice oration on a regular basis. Students will have opportunities
to make
different types of oral presentations including: (1) viewpoint, (2)
instructional, (3) demonstration, (4) informative, (5) persuasive, and
(6)
impromptu. The course is more advanced than the English 12-1 level due
to the
rigorous expectations. The class allows for debate as well, providing
students
with class time to prepare, research, and practice debate procedures.
Students
taking this course should be serious about the study of rhetoric.
Students
cannot take both English 12-1 and Speech.
English 12-2 Literature, Mass
Media, and Career Exploration [TOP]
(Prerequisite: Seniors only –
completion of 9-11) This course is divided into three components:
literature, mass
media, and career exploration. Students who take this course may be
planning to enter the
workforce, attend a two-year or a four-year college. This course will
emphasize
reading skills, vocabulary, and analytical thinking and writing.
Outside
speakers form ‘the world of work’ will be utilized
throughout the course. This
course can be counted toward an Honors Diploma. LANGUAGE ARTS ELECTIVE
COURSES
Elective courses do not count toward the (8) English credits needed for
graduation.
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Elective courses do not count toward the (9)
English credits needed for graduation.
Creative Writing (10-12)
(one term) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: successful
completion of English 1-2 and strong writing skills.) This course is an
elective course with an emphasis on writing short stories. Plot and
character
development are studied, along with other short story elements such as
dialogue, description, tone and setting. Reading
and writing short stories make up the framework of the course. Also an
integral
part of the course is peer critique as students share their creative
products.
Publishing a class literary magazine is the course culmination.
Film and Literature (10-12)
(one term) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: sophomores: A
or B in freshman English; juniors and seniors: A, B, or C in all
English
classes taken). Film Literature studies the diversified ideas and
concepts that
interact when written literature is adapted to film or when a work of
literary
art is originally conceived for film presentation. This course
includes: (1)
the impact of film on the ways in which people perceive the human
condition,
(2) the ways in which the roles of
men and women and various ethnic
minorities are portrayed, (3) visual interpretations of literary
techniques and
auditory language effects, (4) a history of film as a medium of
literary
interpretation, and (5) the limitations and special capacities of the
two media
to present the work. In a comprehensive speech component, students are
given
opportunities to present and discuss their ideas as well as
opportunities to
role-play as movie directors to stage scenes. Students also have
frequent
writing assignments in which they explore and analyze issues of
interpretation,
production, and cross-genre adaptation.
Genres of Literature: American Crime Fiction (10-12) (on
term) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: A or B in
freshman English: juniors and seniors: A, B, or C in all English
classes
taken.) Attention readers! Take a bird’s eye tour of America’s
dark and savage underbelly through the popular
fiction of the 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. Walk
down the mean streets of
Prohibition, the Great Depression, and the years between the wars with
hardboiled dectectives, les femmes
fatales, gangsters, and regular prople that plunge head-first into
trouble and
come out the other side . . . if they’re lucky. These writers are
the literary
grandchildren of Edgar Allan
Poe—creater of both the detective story and the psychological
thriller-and so
the course begins with him. We study Ernest Hemingway as a creator of
the hard-boiled rhythms of the
writing then read Dashiell Hammett and Raymond Chandler, masters of the
American pulp detective story. We continue to the roman noir—or
black novel: James M. Cain’s Double
Indemnity and David Goodis Dark Passage. This course is an elective.
Etymology: Greek
and Latin Derivatives
(10-12) (one term) [TOP]
Etymology provides instruction
in the derivation of English words and word families from their Latin
and Greek
origins. It also provides the connotative and denotative meaning of
words in a variety of
contexts. Students study the origins and meanings of English words,
including
roots, suffixes, prefixes, and reasons for language change. This course
introduces students to tools and resources for etymological study and
encourages them to be curious about the English language. The analytic
study of
word history and semantics is reinforced through a written and oral
component that involves specific analyzes of texts that require
etymological
sensitivity. As it enables students to increase their vocabularies,
this course helps prepare students
to perform well on the SAT. This course is particularly valuable for
students
who are college bound. (Available to qualified students as ALPS
Independent Study. See SPECIAL
PROGRAMS AND COURSES.)
Journalism 1, 2 (9-12) [TOP]
Journalism is the study of the
art of reporting and the profession of journalists. Beginning
journalism
students receive instruction in all areas of journalism needed to
pursue Staff positions of either yearbook
(GOTHIC) or newspaper (OPTIMIST). Among the areas covered are:
interviewing,
beat reporting, feature writing, news stories, layout design,
advertising, journalistic ethics,
professional standards. This course includes extensive reading of
models of
excellent journalistic techniques and evaluates and analyzes
journalistic
writing through discussions and
critiques. This is not a student publications course; it does not
satisfy any
of the eight required credits for English.
Newspaper Staff (10-12) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: Journalism 1-2;
would-be photographers should have taken the photography class
(See Fine Arts);
advisor must approve application). After completing Journalism 1-2,
students
may apply for a staff position on the school newspaper, the OPTIMIST.
Newspaper
staff plan each issue, write and edit stories, write headlines and
photo
captions, layout and paste up pages, take and process photographs, sell
advertising, and manage the business aspects of newspaper production.
Students
must apply for these staff positions.
Yearbook Staff (11-12) [TOP]
(Prerequisite: Journalism 1-2;
would-be photographers should have taken the photography class.
(See Fine Arts); advisor must
approve application.) After students have completed
Journalism 1-2, they may apply for the staff of the school yearbook,
the
Gothic. Staff members write and edit copy, lay out pages, take and
process
photographs, check page proof, sell advertising, and manage the
business
aspects of yearbook production. students must apply for these
staff
positions.
Poetry (10-12) (one term) [TOP]
Prerequisite: Sophomores must
have passed English 9 with a grade of C or better.
Juniors/Seniors must have passed English 10
and 11. This one term course will provide a study of poetry as a
literary form.
Students will explore poetic themes and devices. Not only does the
course focus
upon interpretation but also upon a variety of structures, devices, and
themes
which differentiate one type of poetry from another. The class gives
particular
attention to aural devices and the effect sound plays on the overall
interpretation of the poem. Examples of such aural devices
include meter,
alliteration, assonance, and rhyme. Oral interpretation,
discussion, and
critical and creative writing are all elements of the course. This
course
presents poetry as a form of literary expression that has prevailed
throughout
the ages. Reading poetry for pleasure is also emphasized.
Peer Tutors for
Regular and Inclusion Education Classes [TOP]
(Prerequisite:
B average, application, interview) This course offers students an
opportunity
for one on one and small-group tutoring in 9th grade Language Arts. A
peer
tutor would do the following:
1. Read tests aloud
2. Read assignments aloud
3. Help with writing assignments
(provide ideas, structure for essays).
4. Facilitate small group
discussion
This opportunity would be open to seniors only. In addition to working
in the
classroom, students will be expected to follow an independent
curriculum that
focuses on the teaching of reading and writing. Tutors will be actively
engaged
in personal reading and writing. If interested, pick up an application
from
Mrs. Hansen in A222 or download one from the Language Arts website.
Media Productions (one term) (Repeatable) [TOP]
This course introduces
students to effective strategies used across a variety of
communications media.
There will be an emphasis on video production but students will have
additional
opportunities to practice presentation skills through other media, such
as billboard/poster
design (layout, design and typography), storytelling, video slide
shows, sign
language, instructional design (PowerPoint), TV advertising, and
various types
of public speaking (extemporaneous, informative, persuasive). This
class is a
prerequisite for the Advanced Media
Productions class.
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