English

Course Description

A review of the fundamentals of grammar, punctuation, writing composition, parts of speech, and literature,  that stresses exposition and argumentation and introduces students to library research.  Emphasizes works by  American and British writers, with some attention to works in translation from other cultures. 

Learning Objectives

1. Develop a solid understanding of the fundamentals of grammar and punctuation, including techniques for avoiding common errors in sentence structure.

2. Enhance writing skills, including the ability to write clearly, effectively, and persuasively, and to conduct research and critically analyze literature.

3. Gain an appreciation and understanding of literature, with a focus on works by American and British writers and some exposure to literature from other cultures.

4. Develop cultural understanding and increase comprehension and communication skills through exposure to diverse literary works.

5. Acquire knowledge of various literary genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama, and the techniques used in each.

6. Learn to write effectively in specialized fields such as science, computer science, current events, and technical writing.

7. Develop the ability to interpret and analyze literature, including point of view, dialogue, setting, and characterization, and to appreciate different poetic and dramatic forms.

8. Gain proficiency in reading, vocabulary, and other language arts skills through the use of various materials and resources, including textbooks, Khan Academy, and the library.

Life Applications

Increase comprehension and communication skills.  Gain cultural understanding from past and present writers.

Modalities 

Grammar:  Emphasizes techniques for avoiding the most common  problems in sentence structure .

Writing:   Develops writing, research, and critical reading skills that emphasizes the analysis and interpretation of literature.  

Fiction:   An introduction to the short story, the novella, and the novel.   Emphasizes  techniques of point of view, dialogue, setting, and characterization 

Non-Fiction:   A specialized writing course for students in the sciences, computer science, current events, and technical writings.

Poetry:  An introduction to the lyric, the ballad, and other poetic forms and to tragedy, comedy,  and other dramatic forms. 

Materials