ENGLISH AND WRITING
We offer a full secondary English program for students, regardless of what level they're at. The content is dynamic, allowing students to participate several years over and gain more advanced skills. The program is broken into three levels, all of which can be repeated for at least two years.
ENGLISH FOUNDATIONS: BEGINNING ENGLISH
Beginning literature-based class that teaches foundational writing structure, including sentences and paragraphs, as well as creative writing techniques. Also focuses on fundamental grammar and punctuation, including sentence diagramming. Book discussions will focus on story structure and literary devices such as description and metaphor. Poetry and short stories will also be included. Appropriate for ages 12-14.
ENGLISH AND THE ESSAY: INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH
Intermediate literature and nonfiction-based class that teaches how to write a 5-paragraph essay and the personal narrative essay. Creative writing assignments are also included. Includes advanced grammar and punctuation (clauses/phrases) with sentence diagramming. Book discussions will introduce themes and rhetorical devices such as symbolism. Appropriate for ages 14+. Students who are 13 may enroll if they can demonstrate an understanding of paragraph structure and basic grammar/punctuation.
LITERATURE AND WRITING: ADVANCED ENGLISH
Advanced literature-based class that focuses on reading great books, poetry, and short stories and discussing “big” ideas and themes, with a focus on advanced literary devices and author intent. Research skills will also be covered, and writing assignments will include several literary analysis essays and a research paper. Grammar/mechanics will also continue to be reviewed. Appropriate for ages 15+. Students must have previously taken English and the Essay OR demonstrate understanding of 5-paragraph essay structure to enroll.