This course focuses on a study of literary genres; the student develops understanding that theme is what relates literature to life and that themes are recurring in the literary world.  The students explore the effect of themes in regard to interpretation.  The students will read across the curriculum to develop academic and personal interests in different subjects. The student will demonstrate competency in a variety of writing genres:  narrative, expository, and technical.  The student will engage in research, timed writings, and the writing process.  Instruction in language conventions will occur within the context of reading, writing, and speaking, rather than in isolation.  The students demonstrate an understanding of listening, speaking, and viewing skills for a variety of purposes