English Curriculum
All activities in English classes are directed toward four fundamental objectives:
- Improve writing
- Improve reading comprehension
- Improve oral presentation skills
- Improve analytical and reasoning skills
Independent Reading
Books are selected with guidance from the teacher and the librarian. Grade 11 students select books by American authors; grade 12 students select books by British authors. Students are encouraged to vary the genre of books they read.
Formal Writing
Students write formal papers in response to novels read throughout the year (not including independent books) as well as in response to units in our textbook. These papers require students to participate in all stages of the writing process, including prewriting, outlining, drafting, editing and revision. Written assignments include character analysis, comparison/contrast, argumentative, narrative and creative writing.
Individual Conferencing
Students meet individually with the teacher during all formal writing assignments to discuss their writing. The teacher makes detailed suggestions during the prewriting and drafting processes, and may meet with students after the final paper is graded to discuss suggestions for improvement.
Group Activities
Students read selections from the text as well as additional novels; discussions, quizzes, and tests are based on these readings.