ENGLISH
ICA requirement: 4 years
CSU/UC requirement: 4 years
English I
Two Semesters 9 UC/CSU
Students will develop expository writing skills essential for learning in all high school classes. Mythology from many cultures around the world is a major focus of literature studied, which includes novels, plays and poems. Reading comprehension, writing proficiency and vocabulary and grammar development are among the goals of this class.
English II
Two Semesters 10 UC/CSU
Literature representing multicultural perspectives is emphasized in English II. Related writing assignments are required with focus on narrative writing. In addition, an introductory study of poetry is pursued. Oral presentation skills are included with emphasis on articulation, poise and critical thinking. Study of vocabulary and grammar are emphasized.
English III
Two Semesters 11 UC/CSU
English III includes a chronological study of major American writers from the Colonial Period to modern times. Students read American novels, short stories, non-fiction, poetry and drama. The course emphasizes a critical approach to literature and the writing of intermediate-length critical essays. Although literature and writing are emphasized, students work on vocabulary and review fundamentals of grammar as necessary.
Honors English III
Two Semesters 11 UC/CSU
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English II and approval of English II instructor.
English III Honors places equal emphasis on critical reading and writing skills. Students will be expected to read material in addition to the regular English III curriculum and to write more extensively. Students will learn to write a lengthier (1000-word) critical essay incorporating literary criticism from outside sources. Honors students are expected to contribute to class discussions and do oral presentations. Time is devoted to vocabulary development and grammar as necessary.
English IV
Two Semesters 12 UC/CSU
This course continues the study of great literature and the development of strong writing skills. Frequent analytical and personal essays will be written in response to several masterpieces of poetry and prose. Students will follow the development of the English language from the Middle Ages through the early modern period. Traditional classics of English poetry and drama will be closely read. In addition, three novels will be studied, one from the 19th-century tradition of the English novel and two by 20th-century writers from Canada and Africa.
Advanced Placement Lit. & Comp.
Two Semesters 12 UC/CSU
Prerequisite: Recommendation of English III Honors teacher or approval, after an interview, from AP teacher and English Department chairperson
This class offers students who love literature an opportunity to develop their exceptional skills in reading and writing beyond high school level. All students in the AP class take the College Board Examination in Literature and Composition which is administered in May. A passing score on this exam gives the student college credit which counts toward her undergraduate degree. The amount of credit granted varies among colleges. The College Board charges a fee of approximately $82.00 for the exam. While preparation for the exam is integrated into the class, the goal is to provide students with a college level course in literature and writing. Literature from many genres is read, discussed and enjoyed. There are frequent writing projects including essays of literary analysis, explication of poems, imaginative writing and poetry writing.
