High School Courses: English
English I
Description
Join us in English I for a series of journeys. In each unit of the course, we embark on a new journey. Through the study of literature, nonfiction, and life, we will explore the unknown, search for identity and equality, and seek achievement, opportunity, and understanding. You will read to analyze the way language is used to express human motivation and will research to examine the results of actions in the real world. The lessons in each unit will give you the tools you need to gain insights from what you read and to use your knowledge in creative and analytical writing.
Pre-Requisites: None
Credits: 1.0
Major Topics and Concepts
Segment One
Module One: Journey to the Unknown
Readings
- “Cold Equations”
- Excerpt War of the Worlds
- Orson Wells Radio Drama
Concepts
- Theme
- Thematic Analysis
- Thesis Statement
- Idea Development
- Conventions
Skills
- Reading Strategies
- Conducting Literary Analysis
- Using Evidence to Support Ideas
- Writing to Address Multiple Texts
- Incorporating Direct Quotes
Module Two: Journey to Identity
Readings
- Students choose a novel from the list provided in the course.
Concepts
- Characterization
- Plot analysis
- Six Traits of Writing
- Narrative Writing Process
- Conventions
- Text Structures
- Theme
- Collaborative Discussions
- Tone and Mood
- Point of View
Skills
- Analyzing Narratives
- Researching Historical Context
- Writing a Narrative
- Creating Suspense, Mystery, Tension, etc.
- Speaking and Listening Techniques
Module Three: Journey to Equality
Readings
- Selected Protest Songs
- Excerpt of the Americans with Disabilities Act
- “Letter from Birmingham Jail”
Concepts
- Figurative language
- Tone
- Mood
- Diction
- Connotation and Denotation
- Structure
Skills
- Analyzing Literary Non-fiction
- Outlining an Informative/Explanatory Essay
- Incorporating Textual Evidence to Support Analysis
Segment 1 Honors
Readings
- Excerpts of Romeo and Juliet Acts I & II
Concepts
- Universal Themes and Language
- Diction
- Characterization
- Historical Context
Skills
- Reading Shakespeare
- Analyzing Shakespearean-inspired Art
- Comparing and Contrasting
- Synthesizing
Segment 2
Module Four: Journey to Achievement
Readings
- Selected articles about achievement
- “Malawi windmill boy with big fans”
- “The Boy of Unusual Vision”
Concepts
- Informational Texts
- Text Features
- Context
- Connotation
- Compare and Contrast
- Research
Skills
- Analyzing Non-fiction/Informational Texts
- Using Text Features
- Reading and Analyzing Informational Texts
- Conducting Research
Module Five: Journey to Opportunity
Reading
- Excerpts of various political speeches from Lincoln, Roosevelt, and Obama
- Research articles on one of the following topics: college athletics or banned books
Concepts
- Argument Analysis
- Characteristics of an Effective Claim
- Counterclaim
- Appeals to Logic, Emotion, and Ethics
- Logical Fallacies
- Research Skills
- Ethical Researching and Writing Practices
- Six Traits of Writing
- Argument Writing Process
- Precise Language
- Punctuation Conventions
Skills
- Analyzing Arguments
- Identifying Logos, Pathos, and Ethos
- Researching Multiple Sides of an Issue
- Stating a Claim
- Writing an Argument
- Revising
- Editing
- Presenting an Argument
Module Six: Journey to Understanding
Readings
- “I Wandered Lonely As a Cloud”
- “The Calypso Borealis”
Concepts
- Naturalism
- Dialect
- Structure
- Figurative language
- Tone
- Mood
- Diction
- Connotation and Denotation
- Syntax
- Conventions
Skills
- Analyzing Poetry
- Analyzing an Essay
- Writing a Compare/Contrast Essay
- Using Textual Evidence to Support Analysis
- Revising
- Editing
- Publishing
Segment 2 Honors
Readings
- Excerpts of Romeo and Juliet Acts III, IV, and V
- Excerpt from Huckleberry Finn
Concepts
- Conflict
- Foreshadowing
- Theme
- Inference
- Skills
- Reading Shakespeare
- Understanding Universality of Literature
- Comparing and Contrasting Characters
- Interpreting an Author’s Message
English I for Credit Recovery
Description
This full credit course is provided for students who have previously taken English I and were not successful. Students may take one or both segments of this course. Students will develop language arts skills by reading, writing, listening, viewing, and speaking. Students will learn to use the English language to successfully express themselves.
Pre-Requisites: Students must have already taken English I, but not earned credit.
Credits: 1.0
Estimated Completion Time: 10 weeks per segment
Major Topics and Concepts
Module One:
- Characterization
- Plot analysis
- Narrative writing process
- Proper use of conventions
- Text structures
- Tone and mood
- Creating suspense, mystery, tension
- Speaking and listening techniques
Module Two:
- Figurative language
- Tone and mood
- Diction
- Connotation and denotation
- Structure
- Analyzing literary nonfiction
- Informative/explanatory writing
Module Three:
- Argument analysis
- Characteristics of an effective claim
- Counterclaim
- Appeals to logic, emotion, and ethics
- Logical fallacies
- Research skills
- Argument writing process
- Precise language
- Ethical researching and writing practices
Module Four:
- Naturalism
- Dialect
- Structure
- Figurative language
- Tone and mood
- Diction and syntax
- Conventions
- Analyzing poetry
- Analyzing an essay
English II
Description
In English II, students learn how the human experience – real life – is the foundation of the best stories, plays, poems, films, and articles. The four modules – Live Love Laugh, Obstacles, Fear, and Betrayal – allow students to focus on particular aspects of the human experience. Throughout the course, students explore what it means to be human, what it means to be fulfilled, challenged, transformed, and intellectually active. Designed to meet Common Core Standards, the course takes an in-depth look at pieces of literature through close readings, the use of textual evidence in writings, the creation of arguments through research and facts, and the application of writing and revision strategies. Additionally, students will encounter new vocabulary and vocabulary acquisition strategies, learn and refine the grammar and mechanics of their writing, discover the power of literary devices, investigate structures, and engage in thought-provoking projects.
Pre-Requisites: English I
Credits: 1.0
Estimated Completion Time: 2 segments / 32-36 weeks
Major Topics and Concepts
Module 01
- Grammar
- Poetry
- Connotation, Denotation, and Imagery
- Humor
- Tone
- Plot, Pacing, and Point of View
- Alternate Plot Structures
- Narrative Writing
- Pre-Writing Process
- Writing Tips
- First Draft
Module 02
- The Hurdle
- Historical Context and Human Rights
- Point of View
- Prompt and Human Rights
- The Victory
- Analysis
- Research
- Citations
- The Introduction
- The Outline
- Grammar
Module 03
- Fears, Anxieties, and Phobias
- The Reality of Fear
- Nothing to Fear
- Free from Fear
- Fascination with Fear
- No Hyding From Fear
- Fear in Film
Module 04
- Apostrophes and Homonyms
- Julius Caesar
- Argumentative Writing
- Claims and Counterclaims
- Developing a Position
- Outlining an Argument
- Writing an Argument
- Final Draft
English II for Credit Recovery
Description
The purpose of this course is to provide grade 10 students who have not passed English II an opportunity to recover the course credit. This course uses texts of high complexity, integrated language arts study in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language for college and career preparation and readiness.
Pre-Requisites: This full credit course is provided for students who have previously taken English II but have not successfully passed. Students may take one or both segments to recover the credit.
Credits: 1.0
Estimated Completion Time: 10 weeks per segment
Major Topics and Concepts
Module One:
- Narrative elements
- Literary analysis (character, plot, point of view, and conflict)
- Using supporting evidence
- Tone and mood
- Connotation and denotation
- Figurative language
- Irony
- Proper use of conventions
- Narrative writing
Module Two:
- Oral history
- Research process
- Source credibility
- Citing sources
- Analyzing literary nonfiction
- Proper use of conventions
- Nonfiction reading strategies
- Using supporting evidence
- Informative/explanatory writing
Module Three:
- Literary analysis of theme
- Suspense techniques
- Vocabulary building
- Sentence variety
- Phrases
- Persuasion
- Rhetorical devices
- Presentation skills
- Analyze literature, nonfiction, and film
- Using supporting evidence
Module Four:
- Domain-specific vocabulary
- Argument analysis
- Claims and counterclaims
- Proper use of conventions
- Appeals to logic, emotion, and ethics
- Logical fallacies
- Using supporting evidence
- Analysis of various representations
- Analysis of character and theme
- Argument writing
English III
Description
“Extra, extra, read all about it!” It’s all right here in black and white, in the pages of The Virtual Times newspaper. Published at key periods in our American history, The Virtual Times takes us right into the action. The writing is clear and concise. The stories and opinions give us perspective. The sports and entertainment sections give us the color and flavor of the times. In English III, the writing and insights of authors throughout our history are collected in the fast-paced pages of The Virtual Times. You’ll gain an appreciation of American literature and the ways it reflects the times in which it was written. You’ll discover how people thought and lived and wrote about their experiences. You’ll also be asked to observe, investigate and report on stories of today. The goal is to be thorough, accurate and compelling in your writing. Perhaps in times to come, people will want to read what you thought and wrote.
Pre-Requisites: Recommended: English I & II
Credits: 1.0
Estimated Completion Time: 2 segments/32-36 weeks
Major Topics and Concepts
Module 01
- Interpretations with American Drama
- Interpretations with Shakespearean Drama
- Using Context Clues to Make Meaning
- Denotations and Connotations
- 19th Century Foundations of American Literature
Module 02
- Citing Textual Evidence
- Sequence of Events and Central Ideas
- Analyzing Effectiveness
- Integrating and Evaluating Sources
- Thesis Statements
- Creating an Outline
- Developing Body Paragraphs
Module 03
- Making Inferences
- Determining Themes
- Analyzing Author’s Choice
- Establishing Narration
- Writing Narrative Introductions
- Writing Narrative Body Paragraphs
- Revising the Narrative Essay
- The Narrative Essay Final Draft
Module 04
- Choose Your Novel
- Identify Theme
- Developing Theme
- Writing About Theme
Module 05
- Hyphenation and Syntax
- Reading Poetry
- The Art of Language
- Understanding 20th Century Poetry
- Analyzing 20th Century Poetry
Module 06
- Analyzing Language
- Evaluating Speech
- Evaluate Reasoning
- Analyzing Purpose
- Evaluating Rhetoric
- Gathering Information
- Integrating Information
Module 07
- Evaluating a Speaker
- Establishing Argument Writing
- Developing a Claim
- Introductions in Argument Writing
- Writing an Argument
- Conclusions in Argument Writing
- Revising Arguments
- Presenting an Argument
Module 08
- Analyzing Author’s Language
- Analyzing Plot
- Analyzing Personal Style
- Writing About Relevance
English III for Credit Recovery
Description
English 3 for Credit Recovery is a high school course that covers active reading and analysis of literary and informational texts of high complexity; writing for varied purposes; listening, speaking, and viewing skills; and collaboration for college and career preparation and readiness. Students are exposed to high-complexity texts on a deeper level, spending more time with that text and writing to that text.
Pre-Requisites: Students must combine a previous attempt of English 3 with a passing score in this course to receive credit for high school graduation.
Credits: 1.0
Estimated Completion Time: 10 weeks per segment
Major Topics and Concepts
Module 1
- Reading and analysis of American and Shakespearean dramas
- Multiple interpretations (mixed mediums)
- Comparison writing
Module 2
- Reading and analysis of informational text
- Informative/explanatory writing
Module 3
- Reading and analysis of literature
- Narrative writing
Module 4
- Reading and analysis of informational text
- Argument writing
Module 5
- Reading and analysis of poetry
- Informative/explanatory writing
Module 6
- Reading and analysis of informational text/primary U.S. documents
- Research
English IV
Description
Come explore the world of big ideas in English IV, where you are able to choose which path you will travel first as you explore highly-engaging, thematic units. Each path will guide you through a series of literary pieces that allow you to analyze the political, social, economic, and cultural messages of its time as well as its relevance to the world you live in today. Each path revolves around a central theme. The works in the course span a period of over 1000 years and have been written by authors who share common ideas, but employ a variety of literary genres to express their views. Whether it is the dramatic ending of a play, or the colorful images in a verse of poetry, the words of these authors will leave you with a new understanding of the world around you. As you travel down each path, you will create authentic workpieces that will engage you in higher-level learning and provide you with a greater understanding of literature and its connection to the world.
Pre-Requisites: English I, II, and III are recommended
Credits: 1.0
Estimated Completion Time: 2 segments/32-36 weeks
Major Topics and Concepts
Segment 1
Forces of Nature
Readings
- Excerpts of Beowulf, Macbeth, and “Heroism.”
Concepts
- Character development
- Plot analysis
- Theme
- Tone
- Mood
- Literary devices
- Syntax
- Thematic analysis
- Six traits of writing
- Narrative writing process
- Proper use of conventions
Skills
- Reading Shakespeare
- Conducting literary analysis
- Writing to address multiple texts
- Incorporating direct quotes
- Planning a narrative
- Writing a narrative
An Empire Divided (Honors)
Readings
- “Land of Hope and Glory,” “Song to the Men of England,” and The Man Who Would Be King
Concepts
- Figurative language
- Poetic forms and devices
- Elements of Fiction: plot, character, conflict, theme, setting, point of view
- Tone
- Mood
- Diction
- Connotation and denotation
- Syntax
Skills
- Experiencing and analyzing poetry
- Analyzing literary text
- Writing an informative/explanatory essay
Segment 2
Expressions
Readings
- Selected poems, “The Story of an Hour,” “A Jury of Her Peers,” excerpts of pieces written by Benjamin Franklin, Judith Sargent Murray, and selected newspaper and magazine articles.
Concepts
- Figurative language
- Figures of speech
- Poetic forms and devices
- Tone
- Mood
- Diction
- Connotation and denotation
- Imagery
- Allusion
- Symbolism
- Character development
- Historical context
- Thematic analysis
- Summary
Skills
- Experiencing and analyzing poetry
- Writing poetry
- Reading and analyzing informational text
- Identifying and understanding different perspectives
- Summarizing
Proof of Satire
Reading
- Selected political speeches, selected closing arguments from well-known court cases, selected newspaper and magazine articles, “Advice to Youth,” and “Burlesque Autobiography”
Concepts
- Basic elements of persuasion
- Compare and contrast
- Argument analysis
- Characteristics of an effective claim
- Appeals to logic, emotion, and ethics
- Logical fallacies
- Research skills
- Ethical researching and writing practices
- Six traits of writing
- Argument writing process
- MLA format
- Domain-specific language
- Precise language
- Humor and satire
- Proper use of conventions
Skills
- Analyzing arguments
- Identifying appeals to logos, pathos, and ethos
- Researching multiple sides of an issue
- Stating a claim
- Interpreting visual representations of data
- Creating an infographic
- Identifying satire
- Analyzing satirical works
Fall of the Empire (Honors)
Reading
- “Shooting an Elephant,” “Speech at Calicut,” “To Every Englishman in India,” and various news articles
Concepts
- Characteristics of nonfiction texts
- Theme
- Figurative language
- Tone
- Mood
- Diction
- Connotation and denotation
- Syntax
- Conventions
Skills
- Analyzing traits of a personal essay
- Research to support writing a news article
- Analyzing traits of professional writers
- Writing an inverted pyramid news article
English IV College Prep
Description
In this course, students will develop the skills they need to gain insights from what they read and to use their knowledge in creative and analytical writing. The course begins with fundamentals in reading and writing. From there, students will apply those concepts to closely read and analyze contemporary and historical informational text. The texts they read provide the background for narrative, informative/explanatory, and argument writing. The strategies the students practice in this course will prepare them for the demands of reading, writing, and communicating in college and the workplace.
Pre-Requisites: English 1, 2, & 3 recommended
Credits: 1.0
Estimated Completion Time: 2 segments/32-36 weeks
Major Topics and Concepts
Segment 1
Writer’s Workshop
Readings
- Close study of Virginia Woolf excerpt, Bureau of Labor and Statistics report, student-chosen research on career
Concepts
- Personal response essay
- Diction
- Figurative language
- Syntax
- Audience awareness
- Purpose
- Clarity in writing
- Appropriate use of punctuation
- Grammar, usage, and mechanics in writing
- Non-standard and Standard Written English
- Organization of writing
- Use of personal experience in writing
- Rhetoric
- Logos, pathos, ethos
- Style
Skills
- Reading and analyzing non-fiction text
- Revising
- Editing
- Researching to inform writing
- Identifying and using nuanced diction
Becoming Legendary
Readings
- Excerpts of pieces written by Benjamin Franklin, Judith Sargent Murray, and selected newspaper and magazine articles
Concepts
- Tone
- Connotation and denotation
- Historical context
- Thematic analysis
- Summary
- Character development
- Plot analysis
- Mood
- Literary devices
- Syntax
- Thematic analysis
- Six traits of writing
- Narrative writing process
- Proper use of conventions
Skills
- Reading and analyzing informational text
- Identifying and understanding different perspectives
- Summarizing
- Planning a narrative
- Writing a narrative
- Writing to address multiple texts
Segment 2
Carousel of Progress
Readings
- Preamble to the United States Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and excerpts from various articles and court cases
Concepts
- Interpretations of the Bill of Rights
- Theme
- Domain-specific language
- Precise language
- Transitions
- Conventions
- Six traits of writing
- Informative/explanatory writing
Skills
- Analyzing informational texts
- Researching to support an informative/explanatory topic
- Creating an annotated bibliography
- Using MLA citations
- Writing an informative/explanatory article
Weighing the Issues
Reading
- Selected political speeches, selected closing arguments from well-known court cases, selected newspaper and magazine articles
Concepts
- Basic elements of persuasion
- Compare and contrast
- Argument analysis
- Characteristics of an effective claim
- Appeals to logic, emotion, and ethics
- Logical fallacies
- Research skills
- Ethical researching and writing practices
- Six traits of writing
- Argument writing process
- MLA format
- Domain-specific language
- Precise language
Skills
- Analyzing arguments
- Identifying appeals to logos, pathos, and ethos
- Researching multiple sides of an issue
- Stating a claim
- Interpreting visual representations of data
- Creating an infographic
English IV for Credit Recovery
Description
English 4 Credit Recovery covers reading literature, reading informational text, applying language skills, writing (informational, narrative, and argument), researching and presenting strategies, and speaking and listening skills. Students will be exposed to literature on a deeper level, spending more time with one text and writing to that text.
Pre-Requisites: Students must have already taken English I, but not earned credit.
Credits: 1.0
Estimated Completion Time: 10 weeks per segment
Major Topics and Concepts
Module 1:
- Heroes and monsters in Macbeth
- Reading strategies
- Characterization
- Plot development and conflict
- Theme
- Sentence structure
- Word choice
- Narrative writing techniques
Module 2:
- Writing style and word choice
- Sentence fluency
- Grammar, punctuation, and use of clauses
- Reading strategies, including Supreme Court Cases and foundational documents
- Research and vetting of sources
- Informational article outline
- Informational writing structure: big ideas to supporting details
- In-text citations
- Thesis statement
- Informational writing techniques
Module 3:
- Experiencing and analyzing poetry
- Poetic forms and devices, including figurative language and figures of speech
- Writing poetry
- Reading and analyzing informational text
- Identifying and understanding different perspectives
- Summarizing
Module 4:
- Argument analysis
- Claim, counterclaim, rebuttal
- Writing to an audience
- Rhetorical appeals— logos, pathos, ethos
- Context Clues
- Tone
- Research skills
- Visual argumentation
- Gathering supporting evidence
- Argument outline
- Argumentation writing techniques