English

Grade 9

Fundamentals of Writing incorporates literature (age-appropriate, various genres) as a base for the study and production of writing; the focus is on building solid essays (analytical, descriptive, argumentative, and others), including extensive work on creating effective introductions and conclusions and providing relevant supporting evidence. The course includes a research paper on a science topic (teachers will work in collaboration with science faculty). Vocabulary work will be from both the context of the works read and workbook study. Students will be required to review and apply proper grammar and incorporate stylistic revision at the sentence and paragraph levels.

Grade 10

American Literature is an overview of American literature from the country's inception through more contemporary pieces. Literature includes poetry, drama, novel, short story, and essay. The strong focus on reading comprehension and writing will build on analytical, grammatical, and stylistic skills established in grade 9. Vocabulary work will be from both the context of the works read and workbook study. There will be grammar study as necessary. Students will participate in individual and group oral presentations. The research paper is prepared on a literary topic. Honors level available.

Grade 11

British Literature will survey literature (poetry, short stories, essays, plays, and novels) written in the Old, Middle, and Modern English traditions. English literature is defined broadly enough to include writers/works from the former English colonies. The literature is also the basis for learning advanced critical reading, writing, and thinking skills. Vocabulary work will be from both the context of the works read and workbook study. There will be a grammar study as necessary. Students will participate in individual and group oral presentations. The research paper is prepared on a history topic (teachers will work in collaboration with history faculty). Honors level available.

Grade 12

World Literature, designed for the high school senior, presents challenging works from a wide spectrum of authors. The literature - the drama, poetry, essay, short story, and novel - may represent many countries and time periods and the course serves to highlight those significant works of literature that all college-preparatory students should encounter at this level. The focus continues to be on reading comprehension and writing about literature; the research paper is produced on a topic of choice (sports, the arts, literature, etc.). Vocabulary work will be from both the context of the works read and workbook study. There will be a grammar study as necessary. Students will participate in individual and group oral presentations.

Grade 12

AP Literature and Composition offers a distinctive level of challenge through readings as recommended by the College Board. The pace is accelerated and the reliance upon student-centered independent work further identifies this course. Readings are assigned from all the key genres & novels, short stories, plays, essays and poetry. Vocabulary work includes both a literary-themed workbook and contextual study. AP Lit students will prepare a research paper on an appropriate topic of choice. All AP Lit students will sit for the AP Lit exam in the spring.