English I

Two Semesters- 1.0 credit         Required Grade 9

Freshmen will study literature from around the world through Prose, Poetry, and Drama.  Grammar will include the study of the parts of speech, phrases, clauses, and usage.  The basic  writing process learned in middle school will be expanded through literary essays and creative work; students will work on listening and communication skills through note-taking, public speaking, and increased vocabulary.  Organization of materials and growth of independence is stressed.

English II

Prerequisites: English I

Two Semesters- 1.0 credit        Required Grade 10

Sophomores study literature from around the world through Prose, Poetry, and Drama.  Usage and mechanics will be stressed in grammar and the writing process will become more refined through literacy interpretation, journals, and creative work.  Students will have a strong emphasis on oral communication skills through note-taking, public speaking and increased vocabulary.  There is an increased emphasis placed on independence and time management.

English III

Prerequisites: English I & English II

Two Semesters- 1.0 credit        Required Grade 11

Juniors will study American Literature through Prose, Poetry, and Drama.  A continuous review of grammar skills will be made throughout the year and are expected to be utilized appropriately in writing.  Students will be expected to develop proficiency in writing and revision through literary interpretations, journals, and creative work.  Increased vocabulary usage and independence is stressed as well as self-advocacy.

English IV

Prerequisites: English I, English II, & English III

Two Semesters- 1.0 credit        Required Grade 12

Seniors will concentrate on writing techniques that combine elements of technical writing and simple grammar and usage basics to develop an effective writing style appropriate for business.  Students will have a variety of writing experiences, including resumes and letters of application.  Students will also have a literature component in this course.

AP English Literature & Composition

Prerequisites: English III

Two Semesters- 1.0 credit        Grade 12

AP English Literature and Composition is designed to be a university level course, thus the “AP” designation on a transcript.  This course will provide the student with the intellectual challenges and workload consistent with a typical undergraduate university English literature/Humanities course. 

**As a culmination of the course, students are encouraged to take the AP English Literature and Composition Exam given in May, at the cost of the student (resources available).  A grade of 4 or 5 on this exam is considered equivalent to a 3.3-4.0 on a university grading scale.  A student who earns a grade of 3 or above on the exam will be granted college credit at most colleges and universities throughout the United States.**

Mass Media

Prerequisites:

One Semester-0.5 credit        Grade 11-12

Mass media is a course designed for students of all writing abilities.  Students will use their reading, writing, and discussion skills to create original content in blogs, vlogs, podcasting, and a multi-media presence.  Most importantly, students will learn the power of their own voice by creating a responsible digital footprint on the internet.

Creating Writing

Prerequisites: English I & English II

One Semester- .5 credit              Grade 11-12

Creative Writing is a half-credit English course designed to provide daily writing opportunities for avid writers.  This course is conducted as a writer’s workshop where everyone is an active writer including the instructor.