Foundations of English I
This course is scheduled for all incoming freshmen during the ninth grade in order to offer the necessary skills and knowledge for success in English I by teaching foundational skills necessary for interpretation of literature and grammar usage. (available at Albemarle High School only)
English I
This course challenges students to acquire, master, and apply skills in studying, writing, grammar, vocabulary and literature (terms, types and elements). Emphasis is placed on grammar usage, writing format and interpretation of literature.
English I Honors
This course is a study of literature (types, elements and terms), writing, grammar and vocabulary. Students taking this course should have the English skills necessary to meet a demanding course of study. Emphasis is placed on oral and written communication skills.
English II
This course builds on skills mastered in English I and applies them to world literature and analytical writing. Emphasis is placed on writing skills needed for the development of the five-paragraph essay.
English II Honors
Students taking this course should have well-developed English skills to meet a demanding course of study. English II Honors focuses on reading, writing, speaking, listening and viewing. Emphasis is placed on the study of world literature and analytical writing in preparation for a four-year college.
English III
This course builds on skills mastered in English II and applies them to American literature, writing and research. Students analyze American literature in terms of social perspective and historical significance. Critical analysis of texts is emphasized through reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using media.
English III Honors
Students taking this course should have the appropriate English skills to meet a demanding course of study. English III Honors applies higher-level thinking skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening and viewing.
English IV
English IV requires students to extend the skills mastered in reading, writing, listening, speaking and viewing and to apply them to a survey of British literature.
English IV Honors
English IV Honors requires students to demonstrate the ability to use analysis, synthesis and evaluation in a survey of British literature. Students taking this course should have the appropriate English skills to meet a demanding course of study. May require additional reading prior to enrollment.
English IV (Pre-AP) Honors
Companion course to AP English Literature & Composition or Language & Composition.
AP English Language and Composition
AP English Language and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level rhetoric and writing curriculum, which requires students to develop evidence-based analytic and argumentative essays that proceed through several stages or drafts. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Throughout the course, students develop a personal style by making appropriate grammatical choices. Additionally, students read and analyze the rhetorical elements and their effects in non-fiction texts, including graphic images as forms of text, from many disciplines and historical periods. Colleges may award credit to a student based on the AP exam.
AP English Literature and Composition
AP English Literature and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level literary analysis course. The course engages students in the close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require students to analyze and interpret literary works. Colleges may award credit to a student based on the AP exam.
Yearbook I
The yearbook staff is responsible for planning and producing the school yearbook. Members of the class are responsible for selling advertisements, planning photography, writing suitable copy, drawing layouts and participating in selling yearbooks to the student body.
Yearbook II Prerequisite: Yearbook I
The yearbook staff is responsible for planning and producing the school yearbook. Members of the class are responsible for selling advertisements, planning, photography, writing suitable copy, drawing, layouts, and participating in selling yearbooks to the student body.
Yearbook II Honors (one semester only)
Prerequisite: Yearbook I ; Teacher recommendation.
Advanced yearbook students will continue to develop their managing ability and publication skills in planning, writing, editing, and designing. They will participate in workshops, assume a leadership role and responsibilities as a section editor or editor-in-chief, sell required ads, maintain a portfolio of work, and complete an independent project.
Yearbook Editors Honors (one semester only)
Prerequisite: Journalism II or Yearbook II ; Teacher recommendation.
Advanced editors will assume leadership in editing and correcting proofs and completing the final edition of the yearbook. They will use advanced journalism principles and polish layout design skills in creating other school publications. Individuals will develop and present a potential yearbook plan with theme, cover and page design ideas. Students will participate in workshops and submit work for scholastic organization competition.
SAT/ACT Preparation
Prerequisites: English I and Math I
This is a one-block course designed for college preparatory students who plan to take the SAT/ACT. The course emphasizes the development of vocabulary and critical thinking skills and assists students in preparation for the SAT/ACT in academic core areas.
Creative Writing I Honors
Prerequisite: English I
Students will explore advanced modes and genres of writing, experimenting with voice, audience, purpose, and style.
Creative Writing II Honors
Prerequisite: Creative Writing I Honors
Students will explore advanced writing skills with different modes and genres of writing.
English: Life Skills
Class membership is determined by a student's Individual Education Plan. Reading, writing, and comprehension skills are taught at appropriate levels. Life skills are stressed. See counselor.
Cadet Teaching I Honors
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
This course is designed for students interested in becoming a professional educator. Course work includes instruction in the science of teaching, visiting and observing at various educational sites, and spending time in an internship at either an elementary or middle school classroom. Students must provide transportation.
Cadet Teaching II Honors
Prerequisites: Cadet Teaching I ; Teacher Recommendation
This course continues to look at the role of a professional educator, allowing Cadet Teaching I students to further learn and practice the art and science of teaching. Students will spend nine weeks in an internship at either an elementary or middle school classroom. Students must provide transportation.
Film as Literature Honors (SCOL)
This is a course designed to analyze advanced literary concepts of film, both past and present. The course involves advanced writing, critiquing, and thematic analysis using films that speak particularly to literary themes.