English

English I

English I (A) is a study of the use of our language in speech, writing, grammar, and the novel To Kill a Mockingbird. Units of spelling and vocabulary are interdispersed throughout the semester along with two required book reports. English I (B) is study of the short story, poetry, and drama. Three book reports are required along with six units of spelling and vocabulary. Each student is required to write an extensive autobiography.

English II (A) stresses short biographies. Shakespeare's Julius Caesar is taught approximately when students are studying Romans in World History and students create a Roman newspaper. Grammar includes the study of verbals, complex sentences, and writing with the word processor. Library and communication skills are utilized both semesters. English II (B) continues to stress writing and covers literature including short stories, poetry, drama, and the novel "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding. Students must complete individual reading contracts each nine weeks. Communication skills are developed by interviewing a community person about his occupation and reporting the results orally.

English III (A) This course is designed to improve the students' writing and oral expression skills through panel discussions and a research paper. Included are six units of vocabulary and analogy study along with the required two book reports. Mini lessons of language structure, usage, and punctuation are intermingled with the writing assignments. The course also includes the literary studies: "Our Town" and "The Crucible".

English III (B) The literature of America will be examined by the student, going from the early American period throughout the modern era. Emphasis will be placed upon reading to think critically. Some representative writers studied are William Cullen Bryant, Edgar Allen Poe, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Walt Whitman, Mark Twain, Robert Frost, and Ernest Hemingway. Spelling and vocabulary units will be presented along with two required book reports.

English IV (A) stresses communication in writing and speaking. Students use a wide variety of library skills to research an MLA style paper with emphasis on content as well as the writing process. Speech skills range from making simple introductions to delivering a persuasive speech. English IV (B) stresses primarily British literature, although prominent world authors are taught in the corresponding periods to give a broader perspective. The course is designed to show how literature reflects the social period in which it was written. Writing and speaking skills continue to be emphasized.

This class begins with short activities such as introductions and advertisements. The student will learn to be more comfortable before an audience, tips for controlling nervousness, and organizational skills. It will include a unit on oral interpretation and conclude with speech to persuade based on research.