All students are required to take one credit of English per year. Students study grammar to enhance writing skills. In addition, students learn the multi-paragraph composition format which they will use throughout high school. Students study vocabulary at an appropriate level to improve written expression and to increase reading comprehension. Students read and study a variety of literary genre, including drama, short stories, novels, and poetry.
Students also explore various types of nonfiction to develop and enhance critical thinking skills.
The course expectations, depth and quality required of students are meant to challenge those who have mastered the basics of reading, writing and speaking. Literature will be read more quickly and independently, and more indepth understanding will be expected. Because of the accelerated pace, students will have the opportunity to study additional literature beyond that studied in the standard class. Grammar, compostion, vocabulary and nonfiction will also be studied at a greater depth. Students will also be introduced to skills and concepts which are further developed in the Advanced Placement Composition and Language course.