This year-long course is an exploration of language through the readings of literature (novels, short stories, and poetry) with a focus on literary skills and vocabulary. Wonder, Phantom Tollbooth, Crossing the Wire, A Christmas Carol, Call of the Wild, and Fever are some commonly included texts.

This is a year-long survey class that encompasses literature, and oral communication skills. Using a variety of literary genres including novels, short stories, non-fiction, and poetry, students focus on making inference and recognizing important passages. Emphasis is placed on learning to actively read, to interpret and analyze literature, and to use these skills to effectively communicate orally as well as through the written word. Common texts include The Outsiders, The Giver, and an anthology of Greek myths.

This is a year-long survey class that encompasses literature, writing, grammar, and oral communication skills. Students will study various genres of literature including novels, short stories, poetry, and non-fiction pieces. Using Socratic discussions, analysis and deconstruction of literature, and synthesis of works from different genres and eras, students hone their annotation skills. SAT vocabulary is addressed through Michael Clay Thompson’s 100 Classic Words. Students create literary responses, and expository, persuasive, and descriptive writing throughout the year. Grammar is addressed and reinforced by Daily Grammar Practice or DGPs. While the written word is the focus of this course, technology is incorporated through creative and collaborative projects. Common texts include Animal Farm, Anthem, Night, The Book Thief, and A Midsummer’s Night Dream. The lessons of the Holocaust are reinforced during a visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in February.

This course focuses on creative and expository writing, grammar, vocabulary, and oral communication. Students develop their understanding and use of Standard English through the study and practice of the rules of grammar.  Type to Learn is incorporated weekly.  They further engage in the writing process by creating descriptive essays, personal narratives, short stories, and poetry. Students are given numerous opportunities to present their writing orally, thus strengthening their oratory skills and confidence.

This semester-long class encompasses both grammar and writing skills. Throughout the semester, students study and discuss how both the written and the spoken word are each grammatically constructed and the reasons for these constructions. Focus includes, but is not limited to, parts of speech, punctuation, sentence structure, and sentence formation. Students explore various forms of writing, including descriptive, expository, and persuasive, as well as explore literary elements such as content, organization, voice, and various forms of figurative language. Students are involved in the creation of both presentations and collaborative projects.