Emphasis is placed on improving critical thinking skills through the analysis and synthesis of a variety of print and non-print materials. Written and oral communications is enhanced through the expanded use of the writing process. This course is designed for students with English skills significantly below grade level and who have an IEP specifying that specialized instruction is necessary in a small group setting. This course reviews and expands the communication skills begun in English IA with greater emphasis on organization, syntax, precision of expression, and wider use of vocabulary. Through revision exercises students become more aware of the writing and thinking process.
Students make oral presentations to experience speaking before a critical audience.
Students are exposed to basic research techniques and the use of the Media Center. This course develops and refines communicating competency. Students improve organization, content, paragraph development, level of detail, style, tone, and word choice in their writing drawing on a variety of revising strategies. In addition, they learn formal techniques common to areas of fiction, non-fiction, technical and business writing while demonstrating wider word choice. They write one research project utilizing research techniques and skills.