The English Department has established these specific requirements:

1. A minimum of one book report, in addition to regular course requirements, will be required each semester in all classes, freshman through senior years.

2. After the required English II course at the sophomore level, the basic elements of organization (outlining and note taking) and structure taught in that course will be the minimum standard for all written work. Research papers will be required each semester at the junior and senior level.

3. All written work in all classes will be subject to a minimum set of standards regarding format, sentence structure, capitalization, punctuation and content.

    

Also, students must earn a “C” or better to remain in the honors level classes. Students must earn an “A” or better in 2 semesters of regular English to move to Honors English.

ENGLISH I
Freshman - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1001 (01051A000)
SEM. 2 – 1002 (01051A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: None

This course contains a study of both literature and composition, so that reading, writing, grammar, listening and speaking skills are utilized and practiced. The literature section includes units on short stories, nonfiction, drama (including Romeo & Juliet), and poetry, (including “The Odyssey”). Novels will also be covered. A thorough study of basic composition gives students the opportunity to work regularly on grammar skills in a practical sense. The focus will be an introduction to the writing process, centering on outlining, sentence structure and paragraph structure, development and organization. Emphasis is placed on written expression so that proper grammar, as well as correct spelling and an increased vocabulary, are practiced. A unit on library skills and research is also included. One novel or book will be read each semester.

HONORS ENGLISH I
Freshman - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1011 (01051A000)
SEM. 2 – 1012 (01051A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: High score on high school placement test and teacher recommendation

Honors English I is a study of both literature and composition, so that reading, writing, grammar, listening and speaking skills are utilized and practiced. The literature section includes units on short stories, nonfiction, drama (including Romeo & Juliet), and poetry, (including The Odyssey). Novels will also be covered.  With each unit, students will study the background, research authors, and complete outside projects and/or oral presentations. Students are expected to have basic composition skills and will be required to write multi-paragraph essays each semester. Essays will include expository, compare/contrast and persuasion, introducing the critical analysis of literature. Emphasis is placed on written expression so that proper grammar, as well as correct spelling and an increased vocabulary, are practiced. A unit on library skills and research is also included. A minimum of two novels or books will be read each semester.


ENGLISH I - TEACHER DIRECTED (TD)
Freshman - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1003 (01051A000)
SEM. 2 – 1004 (01051A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and/or placement testing

This course contains a similar curriculum to English I. It features a study of both literature and composition, so that reading, writing, grammar, and listening and speaking skills are practiced. Literature study will include short stories, novels, classic and current non-fiction, drama (including Romeo and Juliet), and poetry (including The Odyssey). Foundational reading skills will be reviewed and re-enforced throughout the study of literature which will also incorporate teacher-directed reading, discussion, and analysis practice. Additionally, a study of composition will introduce students to the writing process, centering on teacher-directed brainstorming, outlining, and drafting. Students will practice grammar skills in a practical sense, incorporating them into their writing and focusing on essential sentence parts and structures. A unit on library skills and research is also included. One novel or book will be read each semester.

ENGLISH II
Sophomore - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1061 (01002A000)
SEM. 2 – 1062 (01002A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: English I

English II is a required class for graduation. Students will read various genres of literature including: poetry, short stories, novels, and nonfiction. Students will read Of Mice and Men and Julius Caesar.  This class also continues to work on speaking and listening skills with a communication unit and oral presentations.  Students will hone their research skills during a library-based research unit and research papers. Grammar skills continue to be emphasized and improved, both in written and oral formats. Students will practice and study narrative, expository, and persuasive writing and speaking, with a special emphasis on persuasion.

HONORS ENGLISH II
Sophomore - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1071 (01002A000)
SEM. 2 – 1072 (01002A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Honors English I

This course is designed for sophomores who have excelled in Honors English I, or who are recommended by their teacher. Honors English II follows the same genre studies as English II with a more complex and rigorous study of the required texts. Some of the required texts are Of Mice and Men and Julius Caesar.  Students will explore complex grammar problems, chosen to immediately improve the students’ performance in writing and speaking assignments. Students will hone their research skills during a library-based research unit and research papers. Students will practice and study narrative, expository, and persuasive writing and speaking, with a special emphasis on persuasion.

ENGLISH II - TEACHER DIRECTED (TD)
Sophomore - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT

SEM. 1 – 1063 (01002A000)
SEM. 2 – 1064 (01002A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

English II is a required class for graduation. Students will read various genres of literature including:  poetry, short stories, novels, and nonfiction. Students will read Of Mice and Men and Julius Caesar. Students will hone their research skills during a library-based research unit and research papers. Grammar skills will continue to be emphasized and improved, both in written and oral formats. Also, outlining and writing the papers will be teacher-directed with more deadlines and very structured use of class time. Sufficient time is allowed for each assignment, and students have access to the lab during study halls and Chromebooks in class. Students will practice and study narrative, expository, and persuasive writing and speaking, with a special emphasis on persuasion.

NOTE:  For the Junior year, students must choose a literature-based course (British Literature, American Literature, or English III TD), or the Honors versions thereof. Students may also elect to take these courses as electives their Junior/Senior years.

AMERICAN LITERATURE
Junior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
Senior - Elective
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1541 (01054A000)
SEM. 2 – 1542 (01054A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: English II

American Literature will follow a chronological, historical timeline as a basis of study. It is meant to enhance the literary and historical background of students. Short stories, plays, and novels will be read throughout the year. A variety of authors are examined, focusing on American history, trends, themes, and ideas. Also, included in this class will be nonfiction selections, grammar, and SAT preparation. Emphasis will be on developing essays based on literature presented in the class, or on relevant related topics. Research papers will be required each semester, with MLA citations and a Works Cited page. A book report and other writing assignments will be completed, in addition to the research paper each semester.

HONORS AMERICAN LITERATURE
Junior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
Senior - Elective
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1621 (01054A000)
SEM. 2 – 1622 (01054A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Honors English I and/or Honors English II, or teacher recommendation

For college-bound students, this class covers the material chronologically from the early 1600’s (Native American and explorers/settlers unit) to modern times. Emphasis will be on developing essays based on literature presented in the class, or on relevant related topics. A variety of authors are surveyed, focusing on representative American trends, themes and ideas. Research papers will be required each semester (a minimum of two for the year), with MLA citations and a Works Cited page. This is in addition to at least three essays. Grammar, listening and speaking skills, and nonfiction texts will be integral to the class. The class will include projects, class discussions, and quizzes, tests, etc. Novels, drama, short stories and poems will be covered, with emphasis first semester on nonfiction texts. This class is intended to prepare students for Honors Senior English and an eventual smooth transition into college English.

BRITISH LITERATURE
Junior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
Senior - Elective
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1581 (01056A000)
SEM. 2 – 1582 (01056A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: None

For college-bound students, this course focuses on literature and language from the primitive Anglo-Saxon Era to the Renaissance (first semester) and from the Renaissance to modern times (second semester). It traces the development of literature. It is meant to enhance the literary and historical background of students. Class discussion, group work, essays, cultural projects, grammar, and hands-on activities, and application of literary techniques enhance the class curriculum. Reading material will also include nonfiction. At least four novels or books will be read during this course. Research papers will be required each semester with MLA citations, and a Works Cited page. Listening and speaking skills will also be covered. This class is intended to prepare students for Senior English and an eventual smooth transition into college English.

HONORS BRITISH LITERATURE
Junior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
Senior - Elective
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1661 (01056A000)
SEM. 2 – 1662 (01056A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Honors English I and/or Honors English II, or teacher recommendation

For college-bound students, this course focuses on literature, nonfiction and language from the primitive Anglo-Saxon Era to the Renaissance (first semester) and from the Renaissance to modern times (second semester). It traces the development of literature and the English language. It is meant to enhance the literary, cultural and historical background of students. Class discussion, group work, essays, cultural projects and hands-on activities, and application of literary techniques enhance the class curriculum. Research papers will be required each semester with an additional emphasis on developing essays, responding to literature studied in the class. Listening and speaking skills and grammar also are part of the curriculum. This course will provide a smooth transition for the student into Honors Senior English and ultimately college English.

ENGLISH III - TEACHER DIRECTED (TD)
Junior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT

SEM. 1 – 1521 (01003A000)
SEM. 2 – 1522 (01003A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

This course is required for graduation. Students will study various forms of literature including poetry, short stories, novels, and plays. Students will also focus on analyzing works of literature through a historical context and across various forms of mediums, such as viewing and listening. Students will focus on paragraph writing, outlining, and essay writing with more structured deadlines and instruction. Informative based research and writing will strengthen students’ written and oral communication skills to prepare them for both career and collegiate paths. Sufficient class time will be provided to complete all class assignments with more teacher guided modeling and checkpoints to provide individual supports and ensure work completion.

SENIOR ENGLISH - TEACHER DIRECTED (TD)
Senior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1761 (01103A000)
SEM. 2 – 1762 (01103A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation only

This course contains a similar curriculum as the self-directed course (see below). It is a study of significant types of writing which teach advanced composition structure and style in the following major units:  memoir, argument/persuasion, and information. Required assignments include short essays, research papers, a literary critical analysis, and creative projects. The final project for semester two is an I-Search. The course involves teacher-assigned reading, discussion, and worksheets to further understand analysis skills and author’s craft. Also, outlining and writing the papers will be teacher-directed with more deadlines and very structured use of class time. Sufficient time is allowed for each assignment, and students have access to the lab during study halls and Chromebooks in class. Listening and speaking skills, vocabulary work, and grammar are also part of this course, as well as the reading of fiction and nonfiction texts.

SENIOR ENGLISH - SELF DIRECTED (SD)
Senior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1781 (01102A000)
SEM. 2 – 1782 (01102A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: None

This course is a study of significant types of writing which teach advanced composition structure and style in the following major units: argument, persuasion, and critical analysis. Required assignments include short essays, research papers, a literary critical analysis, researched biography paper, and creative projects. Another major project is an occupational study requiring research, interview, and observation of a chosen career. The course requires independent reading, research, and note taking outside of class for the writing of essays in class. In addition, all essays must be turned in to Turnitin.com to check for plagiarism and proper documentation. Sufficient time is allowed for each assignment, and students have access to the lab during study halls and before/after school. This self-directed course allows the student to choose research topics, careers, and an author for analysis. Once an assignment is made, the student is responsible for meeting the deadline and managing his/her use of class/lab time. Vocabulary and listening/speaking skills will be studied, and both fiction and nonfiction texts will be read.

SENIOR ENGLISH II DUAL CREDIT
Senior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 2 – 1812 (01102A000)
Semester - 0.50 credit

Prerequisite: Students must have a score of 19 or better on the English portion of the ACT; a score of 81 on the ICC Compass test; or a score of 480 on the SAT Writing/Language to enroll in this course. This course can be taken for ICC college credit (English 110).

Senior English DC will focus on further development of writing skills introduced in Senior English SD (first semester). Students will continue practicing writing skills through argumentative, narrative, and review writing.  Special emphasis will be given to analyzing and constructing arguments.

HONORS SENIOR ENGLISH I DUAL CREDIT
Senior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1801 (01102A000)
Semester - 0.50 credit

Prerequisite:  Students must have a score of 19 or better on the English portion of the ACT; a score of 81 on the ICC Compass test; or a score of 480 on the SAT Writing/Language to enroll in this course. This course can be taken for ICC college credit (English 110).  (Seniors choosing Honors Senior English I must choose Honors Senior English II.) This course has a prerequisite of the student successfully completing at least three semesters of Honors English courses.

Honors Senior English DC is a rigorous writing course designed to prepare the honor student for advanced college expository, argumentative and analytical essay writing. Assignments will be based on material covered in ICC's English 110 course. This semester will include papers written from an assigned novel, a research paper, a critical analysis of an important author, and an occupational study based on a career chosen by the student. Emphasis will be on critical reading in preparation for effective and various types of writing. Nonfiction texts form the backbone of the reading, although some fiction will be included. Vocabulary and listening and speaking skills will be covered.

HONORS SENIOR ENGLISH II DUAL CREDIT
Senior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 2 – 1802 (01102A000)
Semester - 0.50 credit

Prerequisite:  Honors Senior English I; This course can be taken for ICC college credit (English 111) if the student has successfully completed ICC's English 110 with a grade of C or better.

The second semester will continue the composition curriculum based on writing. Units will include different styles of writing related to other course subjects, including science, history, and psychology reports. Students will write collaboratively and learn effective methods for presentations. The course will culminate in a reflective senior memory assignment. Nonfiction texts form the backbone of the reading.

HONORS AP SENIOR ENGLISH
Senior - GRADUATION REQUIREMENT
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1841 (01005A000)
SEM. 2 – 1842 (01005A000)
Year - 1.0 credit

Prerequisite:  Prerequisite: Honors Senior English I and Honors British Literature or Honors American Literature

Seniors will complete units preparing them for both the AP English Language and Composition and the AP Literature and Composition tests in May. This collegiate-content class will include written and oral analysis of all the genres of literature, focusing on the uses and techniques of rhetoric. The students will study writers' strategies, imitate writers' styles, analyze how arguments are presented to influence readers and thinkers, etc. Close reading skills will be utilized and listening and speaking skills will also be stressed. Students who opt to take the AP tests can earn up to 9 hours of college semester credit, depending on the score and the university to be attended. The AP credit earned via the test will replace Freshman English courses.

HUMANITIES I
Junior/Senior
English or Art Elective

SEM. 1 – 1711 (04301A000)
Semester - 0.50 credit

Prerequisite:  None

The first semester of Humanities focuses on Greek and Roman classical culture as it has been handed down to us today. What was it like to compete in the Greek Olympic Games or stroll through the Roman baths? What do Dorian, Corinthian, and Ionic have in common? How can you tell Athenian artwork from a Roman fake? All these questions will be answered along with many others.  Primary source documents will be read and analyzed. Ponder Plato, Socrates, and Cicero with us as we pursue the ultimate question, "What does it mean to be human?"

Note:  Humanities I and Humanities II can be taken in either order. Honors Humanities can be taken before, after, or at the same time as either semester.

HUMANITIES II
Junior/Senior
English or Art Elective

SEM. 2 – 1712 (04301A000)
Semester - 0.50 credit

Prerequisite: None

The second semester of Humanities focuses on the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Baroque Eras of Western culture. Students discover the risks of being a medieval peasant, how Roman governmental architecture made it all the way into modern churches, and how the rediscovery of Classical ideas led to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel. In addition to art, music, philosophy, and architecture, students focus on developments in medicine, literature, and politics as we become acquainted with the great communities of the medieval through the Baroque Eras.  Primary source documents will be read and analyzed.

Note:  Humanities I and Humanities II can be taken in either order. Honors Humanities can be taken before, after, or at the same time as either semester.

HONORS HUMANITIES DUAL CREDIT
Junior/Senior
English or Art Elective

SEM. 1 – 1730 (04301A000)
SEM. 2 – 1730 (04301A000)
Semester - 0.50 credit

Prerequisite:  In order to take this course (whether or not you take it for Dual Credit/Early College), you must have one of the following Reading scores:  Accuplacer – 90 or higher; Accuplacer Write Placer – 5 or higher; ACT 18; SAT 480.  The course can also be taken for ICC college credit (HUM 123).

This dual credit course is an interdisciplinary study of literature, philosophy, the visual arts, and music in Western civilization from the ancient to the early modern periods. This course covers the Ancient Mesopotamian and Egyptian worlds through the Elizabethan Era, so we move quickly. Primary source readings help us focus our attention on the major developments in this wide range of dates. Ponder Plato, Socrates, St. Augustine, and others with us as we pursue the ultimate question, "What does it mean to be human?" Consider how the rediscovery of Classical ideas led to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, and ancient Roman engineering led to the cathedrals of France. Thinkers only, please.

Note:  Honor Humanities can be taken before, after or at the same times as either Humanities I or Humanities II.

CREATIVE WRITING
Junior/Senior
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1740 (01104A000)
SEM. 2 – 1740 (01104A000)
Semester - 0.50 credit

Prerequisite:  None

This course is designed to offer an opportunity to write creatively in a variety of forms, such as fiction, short stories, poetry, memoir, and journaling. Creative Writing invites students to write primarily through journaling, but to then build from ideas, turning older, less developed works into something more. Memoir leads to fiction and poetry.  This course requires students to compose a choice final project and to save every piece of writing in order to organize and present an end-of-season folder. Still important to this writing is correct grammar usage, mechanics, and spelling.

COLLEGIATE READING
Junior/Senior
NCAA Approved

SEM. 1 – 1850 (01065A000)
SEM. 2 – 1850 (01065A000)
Semester - 0.50 credit

Prerequisite:  None

This one-semester course helps introduce students to the rigor, complexity, and increased pace needed to read college level texts. Students learn techniques for critically analyzing what they read, increasing reading speed, tackling high-level complex texts, and recognizing overtly and inadvertently used rhetorical strategies such as logical fallacy, manipulation of tone, bias, and the use of opinion as fact. Students can expect to read a lot in this college-preparatory course. A poverty theme provides context for readings, and projects include small group book reflection and discussions as well as formal presentations and debates.