English

English 1 is designed to introduce students to critical analysis of literature and help them develop self-directed reading and writing skills. In this course, students will study a variety of literature, including short fiction, drama, novels, and poetry. Critical thinking, writing conventions, and listening and speaking skills are emphasized and developed throughout the course of the year with a focus on inquiry-based learning. Students will apply these skills to a variety of writing assignments, both expository and creative. Students will also develop vocabulary skills and research skills, including writing a research paper.

School-wide Expectations: 2B

HONORS ENGLISH 1*          COURSE NUMBER: 1002

Honors – Grade 9 Full Year – 1 Credit

Honors English 1 has a twofold purpose: to improve student’s ability to read critically and interpret different forms of literature and to develop a student’s ability to write effectively. Through careful reading of a variety of literature, students develop skills in analysis and interpretation, with a sharp focus on author intent, use of literary devices, and developing original, critical claims. Students will participate in meaningful discussions using their own analysis and interpretations, guiding their own learning through the Socratic Method. In addition, this course introduces students to the sophisticated style of analytical writing. Extensive writing is required for this course. Students will work to improve their writing through a structured and focused process, including thorough draft revisions. Finally, students will continue to develop their ability to comprehend challenging texts and communicate effectively through the study of college-level vocabulary.

School-wide Expectations: 2B and 2C 

This course places emphasis on research, literature and writing. Students can expect to read sophisticated selections from a variety of genres. A strong emphasis is placed on formal and informal writing, including personal, expository, argumentative, narrative, and research papers. Students will be provided with many opportunities to improve and enhance their writing techniques, with a focus on sentence structure, punctuation, grammar, active voice, and organization. Opportunities for use of technology in learning and assessment are included. Continued development of vocabulary is stressed for life skills, as well as preparation for the SATs.

School-wide Expectations: 2B and 2C 

This course emphasizes literary analysis and expository writing. Students can expect to read sophisticated selections from a variety of genres, including novels, drama, short fiction, and poetry. A strong emphasis is placed on formal writing including literary analysis and a research paper. Students are provided with many opportunities to improve and enhance their writing techniques, with a focus on understanding the components of the writing process and strengthening their understanding of grammar and usage. Students develop vocabulary, primarily through the study of word roots and prefixes.

School-wide Expectations: 2B and 2C 

This is an 11th grade English class with an emphasis on American literature. Ample opportunity is provided for students to study major authors, periods, and genres. Students will be encouraged to make connections to the world in which they live by examining both fiction and nonfiction works from both past and present, while improving their reading comprehension skills. A strong emphasis is placed on the improvement of writing skills. Students will be given numerous writing opportunities that will include but not be limited to various forms of literary analyses.

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 2.

School-wide Expectations: 2C and 5A 

This is a UCONN course offered for college credit. This course stresses the effects of American history on the development of American literature. Readings vary in genre and length. There is also a considerable non-fiction reading component. Students learn to question the historical record as well as the literary canon. Writing assignments are based on issues in American history and literature and reflect the types and techniques learned in previous Honors English classes. There are research assignments involving the use of primary as well as secondary resources. Poetry, short stories, novels, plays, and excerpts from longer works constitute the fictional selections. Opportunities for developing speaking skills are also part of this course. SAT preparation continues in this class.

This course is dependent upon instructor approval by the University of Connecticut. Specific course prerequisites must be met. Check with your current English teacher for more information. There is a small fee for this class. Students must meet UCONN requirements for class registration. This course may require students to purchase additional texts

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Honors English 2 or with instructor recommendation/approval

School-wide Expectations: 2C and 5A 

Students will explore literature from across the globe and throughout time. Semester 1 will focus on the types of literary heroes (epic, tragic, and medieval romance) and the enemies they fight. Semester 2 will focus on English literature, including the development of the language. Throughout the year, students will also strengthen writing and revising skills, particularly in the area of expository writing. Literary analysis and research are important parts of this college preparatory course.

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of English 3

School-wide Expectations: 2B and 2C 

In the UConn course catalog, this course is described as follows: “Instruction in academic writing through literary reading. Assignments emphasize interpretation, argumentation, and reflection. Revision of formal assignments and instruction on grammar, mechanics, and style.” In this course, students will engage in academic inquiry, focusing on strengthening their skills as readers, thinkers, and writers. Students will improve their ability to read literary texts critically and develop their own meaning from those texts. Students will use writing as a tool to explore meaning, develop interpretations of texts, express ideas and theories about readings (including how ideas connect to the world), and communicate ideas with others. Students will become more accustomed with the writing process, from idea discovery through drafting to revision. As students develop as writers, they will be encouraged to incorporate the processes of writing as a necessary part of academic writing. To meet the university requirement of 30 or more pages of polished prose, students will produce a variety of academic essays. A regular part of the course will be in-class writing periods, including one-to-one conferences with the instructor, peer review, and small group writing workshops. Individual conferences can be arranged at any time during the course of the school year.

This course is dependent upon instructor approval by the University of Connecticut. Specific course prerequisites must be met. Check with your current English teacher for more information. There is a small fee for this class. Students must meet UCONN requirements for class registration. Students may be required to purchase some additional texts.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of American Studies or with instructor recommendation/approval

School-wide Expectations: 2B and 2C