Focus will be on ideas, types, techniques, style and trends as distinct American literature has evolved from the early diaries up to the short stories, poems and drama of the present. American novels are included. In all English courses, the development and strengthening of writing, speaking, reading and listening skills are pursued. Through assignments related to the course, the students are given opportunities to strengthen their ability to communicate their ideas effectively and correctly in writing and speaking. In addition, this course is designed to explore semantics, the study of how words can affect attitudes and behavior.
Students utilize critical thinking skills to analyze issues and solve problems.
The course consists of study and practical application of good listening habits, speech research, organization, voice and articulation, nonverbal communication, ethics and oral interpretation. A major emphasis is placed on interpersonal relationships and informal speaking situations. This course is a thorough review for students who want to improve their writing skills. Content includes proper usage, sentence and paragraph structure, and an introduction to the multi-paragraph essay. In addition, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization skills will be studied.