The 7th and 8th grade English language arts curriculum has a thematic focus to help students develop critical thinking skills and make high-level connections among various types of literature, literary nonfiction, and informational texts. The literary and informational texts selected for study have been chosen to offer students exposure to a variety of traditional classics as well as contemporary works, and to foster an understanding that universal themes cross traditional barriers between groups such as socioeconomic status differences, generational gaps, and cultural differences. The aim of English 7 and 8 is to provoke thinking while emphasizing the importance of developing the reading, writing, and communication skills necessary to be successful in the next level of study and future college and career choices.
The 9th through 11th grade English language arts curriculum gives students the opportunity to build on their understanding of universal themes while looking at the works studied through various lenses. In 9th grade, students focus on the differences and similarities among different genres of writing including short stories, poetry, drama, and literary and informational non-fiction. In 10th grade, students explore how universal themes cross regional boundaries through the literary and informational works of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Russia, and Latin America. And in 11th grade, students develop an understanding of how universal themes develop and change over time through a chronological study of American Literature. In each course, the students read a wide variety of traditional classics and contemporary works. Beginning in their junior year, students also have the opportunity experience college-level course work with AP Language and Composition or AP Literature and Composition. The primary goal of 9th grade through 11th grade English is to move students to be independent readers, writers, and thinkers so that they have the skills necessary to be successful as they transition away from the supportive structures of high school.
The 12th grade English language arts curriculum is all about student choice and fostering independence. Students in 12th grade choose from 10 very different course options that range from the college-level AP courses, to traditional composition, to the study of American film. In choosing their courses, students are asked to consider the skills and knowledge necessary for success for their future academic and career goals and choose the courses that best fit their own plans. Many seniors choose to enroll in additional English courses beyond the required 1 credit for their own enrichment or to satisfy college and career needs.
For a list of specific content and works covered in each course, please review the course syllabus or request a course syllabus from your student’s teacher.
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