Art of Argument

Honors, NCAA

Students learn the art of persuasive writing, backed by careful research, and presented in an effective manner that is free of logical fallacies. They distinguish persuasive writing from other types of compositionsand learn how to apply persuasive writing and common textual features. They apply understanding of the effects of audience and purpose on persuasive writing. Students also evaluate persuasive writing and speaking for reputability, logic, and presentation.

Cinema as Literature

Honors

Film and television is an increasingly relevant way to experience storytelling and its lessons in modern culture. Film and television communicate meaning differently than written text, and their realm is a world of rich visual language. This form of storytelling is no less compelling or worthy of analysis than traditional literature. Cinema as Literature will examine the elements of this visual language and how filmmakers use them to translate traditional literary devices. The course will also explore different film genres and how each approaches story and character development.

Elements of Grammar

Honors

Grammar is the system and structure of a language, the governing force. It provides the users of that language with collective rules, patterns, and guidelines through which they communicate with each other. Elements of Grammar will survey the important aspects of English language grammar. The course will begin by examining the smallest units of meaning and build to developing varied and complex sentences.

English II

Honors, NCAA

English II uses the hero’s journey to explore world literature from ancient to modern times.  Students will practice literary analysis and composition and learn about essential grammar and literary elements concepts. Finally, students will learn narrative & research writing concepts.

English IV

Honors, NCAA

Come explore the world of big ideas in English IV, where you are able to choose which path you will travel first as you explore highly engaging, thematic units. Each path will guide you through a series of literary pieces that allow you to analyze the political, social, economic, and cultural messages of its time as well as its relevance to the world you live in today. Each path revolves around a central theme.

Expository Composition

Honors, NCAA

Provides essential skills for future English courses as well as for writing across the curriculum and in the workplace. Patterns of development include division/classification, compare/contrast, and persuasive, along with a selection of other types such as cause & effect, definition, and exemplification. Students learn the basics of expository composition, with a strong emphasis on using the writing process to create well-structured essays.

Intensive Reading

Honors

Using easy-to-follow, step-by-step instruction, this course shows students how to approach and navigate complex texts. If you’re looking for extra opportunities to sharpen your reading skills and prepare for the state reading assessment, look no further! 

Introduction to Speech

Honors, NCAA

Students are introduced to public speaking, build confidence, and utilize modern technology to create and present a variety of presentations for different purposes and audiences; these can include informative presentations, persuasive presentations, special occasion speeches, and others. Students view, analyze, and evaluate several examples of public speaking for technique and effectiveness, including nonverbal communication (body language) and the sound and flow of speaking.

Public Speaking I

Honors

Learn techniques from famous speakers throughout history while learning what it takes to make a great speech. Develop skills that will serve you well throughout your career and personal life. Bring your speeches to life by learning about body language, vocal, and other techniques. Learn about logic and reason while gaining the confidence to help create and deliver great presentations and speeches.

Shakespeare: The Comedies

Honors, NCAA

Students investigate Shakespeare's history as a man, actor, poet and playwright. Then, they identify, analyze and discuss common elements of his comedies, including iambic pentameter, five act structure, supernatural occurrences, stock characters, and harmonious union. Additionally, students identify, analyze, and discuss common themes, such as the importance of love, the power of language, the difference between appearance and reality, and the power of dreams and illusions.

Survey of Poetry

Honors, NCAA

Students learn about types of poems, ranging from haiku to ballad, and the key concepts and devices of poetry, such as meter and rhyme scheme. They are exposed to a variety of poems and learn about several poets – both classic and contemporary. Students read and evaluate poems for the various concepts specific to poetry as well as more global literary elements (i.e. theme, imagery, irony). They also have the opportunity to create original works of poetry.