7th Grade

Unit 1 Literary Analysis 101 --Using classic short stories as our base, we learn how to annotate, find plot elements and recognize literary devices in action. We also focus on theme and how to determine themes within text. Our end assessment is a Socratic Seminar on text-to-text, text-to-world, and thematic connections. In writing, we practice literary analysis using a TREES. Our focus is on fiction.

Unit 2 Rhetoric 101-We delve deeper into rhetorical appeals. Students will continue annotating in this unit, where our content is nonfiction. We analyze MLK's "I have a Dream" speech and identify the rhetorical appeals. We analyze commercials and PSA's for their effectiveness. Their end assessment is to create a rhetorically powerful PSA on one of several topics. They research the topic using a wiki Mrs. Lanyi created. They present to the class, who votes on the most powerful PSA.

Unit 3 Poetry 101--We learn TPCASTT, an AP strategy for unlocking poetry. We read a diverse array of poets. Students write TPCASTT analysis. The end assessment for this unit is a student-created poetry portfolio with original work, analysis and a poetry slam. Our content is primarily fiction.

Unit 4 Identity 101 In this unit, we read an array of nonfiction pieces ranging from narrative essays to psychological articles. We will also include fictional pieces centered around identity. As their end assessment, students will work in groups or independently to determine the three most important factors of identity. They will need a Works Cited page noting the evidence they have used. They will have to propose how they best demonstrate these top three traits to the class. Their idea is teacher-approved and then they present it to the class.

8th Grade

Unit 1 Literary Analysis 102 Using classic short stories as our base, we review how to annotate, find plot elements and identity literary devices in action. Our primary focus is finding multiple themes within each text and developing thematic statements. Then we step back and connect stories through thematic ideas. Students culminate the skills they have learned by choosing a thematic idea and three of our short stories and writing a formal essay with a MLA in-text citations and a modified Works Cited page. Our content in this unit is fiction.

Unit 2 Rhetoric 102 Persuasive Essay (Requires student-driven research) --We review rhetorical appeals and learn several rhetorical devices like antithesis. Students will continue annotating in this unit, where our content is nonfiction. We analyze JFK's Inaugural address and identify basic rhetorical devices. Students determine what they are passionate about and would like to prove in their persuasive essay. Next students drive research and begin writing. As in Unit 1, students will rely on mini lessons, clear rubrics for each part of the essay, and peer editing.

Unit 3 Poetry 102 -We review TPCASTT from last year. Then we delve into rigorous poetry analysis. Students write TPCASTT analysis. Students make connections through themes and focus on recognizing shifts. The end assessment for this unit is a poetry test. Our content is primarily fiction.

Unit 4 Identity 102-In this unit, we read an array of nonfiction pieces ranging from narrative essays to psychological articles. We will also include fictional pieces centered around identity. As their end assessment, students will create a multi-genre essay on what they believe to be the most important factor in identity.