Diagnostic tests are used to discover competence of juniors in these areas, and teachers proceed accordingly. Teachers of seniors work on reinforcing these skills through essay writing. A mastery of grammar reinforces basic writing skills and gives student and teacher a mutual vocabulary which is helpful in the discussion of writing. The hope is that students will develop interest and taste in good books, but the main job is to teach close, intelligent, perceptive reading. More sophisticated reading is assigned at the higher levels.
Vocabulary development is emphasized to encourage more precise and effective reading and writing.
Students read from each of the major genres each year. Students read at least one work by Shakespeare each year. Students read works from a variety of time periods and cultures, though juniors concentrate on American literature. Agamemnon, An Introduction to Poetry, The Rinehart Reader, and Point of View. Postgraduates - Heart of Darkness, Othello, The Broken Cord, The Canterbury Tales, The Riverside Reader.