Standards and Goals: English 1

From 2023 South Carolina State Standards:

Students entering English 1 are further developing critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and creativity. English 1 students should be closely reading a variety of rich and challenging texts while demonstrating the ability to analyze the techniques writers use within print and multimedia texts. As in previous grades, educators should continue to offer appropriate guidance and support to students as needed; however, by the end of the school year, English 1 students are expected to demonstrate proficiency of the grade-level indicators with independence. Examples of guidance and support might include, but are not limited to, one-on-one instruction, small group instruction, reteaching, prompting, and differentiated instruction. 

As part of their close examination of author’s craft, English 1 students analyze how an author’s rhetoric contributes to the effectiveness of a text. Students in English 1 are introduced to an author’s use of allusion, universal theme, and situational and dramatic irony. 

English 1 students read a variety of fiction, literary nonfiction, poetry, and drama from across cultures and time periods. Literary text types should include historical fiction, contemporary fiction, myths, epics, monologues, short stories, novels, and graphic novels. English 1 students should also read expository, persuasive, and informational texts that can include, but are not limited to, research reports, political and social essays, historical speeches, news articles, journals, reviews, persuasive brochures and advertisements, directions, and biographical and autobiographical sketches. Students should also examine documentaries, commercials, podcasts, visual performances, infographics, and other forms of multimedia texts. 

Throughout the year, English 1 students refine their written and oral communication skills to communicate to a variety of audiences. Students write shorter and longer narratives, arguments, and informational texts. In all modes of writing, English 1 students focus on a tone and style that is appropriate for their audience. English 1 students continue writing summary paragraphs, multiparagraph essays, text-dependent writing, and creative pieces. As appropriate, students may also examine and practice other types of college and career-ready writing such as, but not limited to, professional emails, personal letters, public service announcements, editorials, and other forms of academic material on various online platforms. Lastly, students in English 1 participate in academic discussions and communicate appropriately to a variety of audiences while considering new ideas and diverse perspectives of others.