English

Freshman English traces the theme of Coming of Age and other universal human experiences through short stories, poetry, drama, media, non-fiction, and novels. Students develop strategies to enhance reading, writing, and collaborative and speaking skills. Students write essays for varied purposes and audiences. Instruction is given on grammar and mechanics, essay organization, and research practices. Students identify voice in literature and express their own voice through written and oral communication. Independent reading is an expectation of this course and will be assessed. This course meets the writingintensive requirements for graduation. 

Honors Freshman English traces the theme of Coming of Age and other universal human experiences through short stories, poetry, drama, media, nonfiction and novels with more rigorous, honors expectations. A strong emphasis on thinking and critical analysis is supported by a demanding schedule of reading. Independent reading is an expectation of this course and will be assessed. Students are expected to compose several formal essays and research projects. Instruction is given on grammar and mechanics, essay organization, and research practices. Targeted instruction is given in syntax, writing organization, and research practices. Students are expected to develop the skills to participate in oral presentations in small and large group settings, and to demonstrate self-directed learning in independent and collaborative assignments. This course meets the writing-intensive requirements for graduation. 

Sophomore English uses the concept of culture as a lens to focus students’ continuing study of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students develop the skills to use language with greater precision and to read with a deeper understanding of literary devices. Through the literary exploration of varying cultures, students will develop a deeper appreciation for their own culture, an informed understanding of cultural conflict, and respect for the unique contributions of cultures different from their own. Students will engage in close reading, discussion, analysis, and interpretation of texts written by individuals from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds.  Students will also build upon their grammar and writing skills. Independent reading is an expectation of this course and will be assessed. 

AP Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately, the course aims to equip students with the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments. This course meets the writing-intensive requirements for graduation. 

Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Seminar and AP end-of-course exam

AP Research, the second course in the AP Capstone experience, allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, issue, or idea of individual interest. Students design, plan and implement a yearlong investigation to address a research question. Through this inquiry, students further develop skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by learning research methodology, employing ethical research practices, and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. Students reflect on their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of their scholarly work through a process and reflection portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000-5,000 words (accompanied by a performance, exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense. If students earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on four additional AP Exams of the student’s choosing, students will receive the AP Capstone Diploma™. This signifies outstanding academic achievement and attainment of college-level academic and research skills. Alternatively, if students earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research only, students will receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate™. This course meets the writing-intensive requirements for graduation. 

This College Board-approved course is designed to challenge students to become more skilled writers, readers and thinkers. To accomplish this purpose, students engage in close critical readings and analyze an assortment of writings of varying lengths, complexity and aims. Students compose in a variety of modes and for a variety of purposes through practice, criticism, and revision. Participation in discussion is an essential component of performance assessment. Students will be prepared for and expected to take the Advanced Placement exam in May. This course meets the writing-intensive requirements for graduation. 

Junior English is a comprehensive study of American literature including prose fiction, non-fiction, poetry, short stories, and essays. Students will continue to expand upon and strengthen their reading, writing, and analytical skills. Students will complete multiple essays.  Grammar and test-taking skills are also emphasized in preparation for college entrance exams. Independent reading is an expectation of this course and will be assessed. 

This course blends composition and literature into a cohesive whole as students write critical and comparative analyses of selected literature while continuing to develop their language arts skills. Students will write multi-paragraph essays, but will also write one or more major papers.  Readings include literature in a variety of genres with an emphasis on diverse voices and perspectives. Readings, discussions, and writing assignments will require critical analysis of the literary features of these books and invite discussion of the author’s craftsmanship and reflection of the human experience. This course meets the writing-intensive requirements for graduation.  Students are able to select, from the list below, the literature that will accompany their Senior English course.  

The selections include:

• Young Adult Literature

• Speculative Literature (Science Fiction)

• African American Literature

• Crime and Punishment Literature 

• Mystery Thriller Literature

This College Board-approved course is designed to prepare students to thrive in challenging college classes and to experience success on the AP English Test in Literature and Composition which all participants are encouraged to take in May. The course emphasizes careful reading of selected literary works and developing critical standards for interpreting literature. Thoughtful reading, contributions to class discussion, and skillful writing are essential for success. Students will be prepared for and expected to take the Advanced Placement exam in May. This course meets the writing-intensive requirements for graduation. 

Introduction to College Composition is a course designed to introduce students to the conventions of academic writing and critical thinking and to prepare students for the rigors of college by developing the skills necessary for analyzing and synthesizing information. In this writing-intensive course, students read, analyze, discuss and critically respond to non-fiction texts that may be organized around themes, critical issues, or concepts that direct students’ focus to larger ideas. Throughout the course, students will consider how, why, and when to employ various reading and writing strategies and processes. In addition, students will also evaluate their overall college readiness, employability, and life success.  By the end of the course, a grade of “C” or higher will result in automatic placement into English 101 at PSC and possibly other community colleges and universities in the state of Illinois.   A grade of “C” or better means you have demonstrated the Content Competency skills for Reading and Writing and Critical Thinking and Analysis.

This course is designed for students who have demonstrated a need for more targeted reading support. It is designed to enhance reading and language skills. It provides students with the strategies for improving skills in the areas of comprehension, vocabulary, and test-taking. Students read a variety of materials including non-fiction, short stories, magazine and newspaper articles, selections from varied academic disciplines, and books which give specific strategies and practice exercises for reading a wide variety of materials more effectively and efficiently. Students are expected to apply these tips and strategies to the reading they do in other classes. Students also learn and practice tips for taking objective and standardized tests. Lessons are presented throughout the course to address such topics as motivation, goal-setting, and study skills 

This is a year-long sophomore course for students to improve their reading comprehension. This course focuses on bolstering vocabulary and strengthening study skills, enhancing the enjoyment of reading, increasing reading rate and accuracy, and developing writing skills. 

Students in Journalism are responsible for the regular publication of the school newspaper, Warrior’s P.R.I.D.E. Students form a student editorial board and are responsible for overseeing the writing, editing and designing of the entire publication. Students will learn journalistic writing style and explore the importance of the media and its impact on society today. This course is repeatable for credit. This course meets the writing-intensive requirements for graduation. 

This course is a performance-based class that introduces and provides experience in all aspects of theatre arts.  Students study basic principles of acting including character analysis, textual interpretation, voice, movement, collaboration, improvisation, and critical analysis of performance. Additionally, students gain a working knowledge of theatre history and the multiple forms of theatrical performance, as well as the technical aspects of theater and theatrical design.  Students will perform scenes, monologues, and improvisations in class.  The class will attend the school's Fall Play and Spring Musical.

This course is designed to enhance reading and language skills. It provides students with the strategies for improving skills in the areas of comprehension, vocabulary, and test taking. Students read a variety of materials including non-fiction, short stories, magazine and newspaper articles, selections from varied academic disciplines, and books which give specific strategies and practice exercises for reading a wide variety of materials more effectively and efficiently. Students are expected to apply these tips and strategies to the reading they do in other classes. Students also learn and practice tips for taking objective and standardized tests. Mini workshops are presented throughout the course to address such topics as motivation, goal-setting, and study skills. 

This course will focus on developing students’ literacy skills. It will provide students with explicit, direct instruction and reading strategies that improve fluency and comprehension of fiction and non-fiction text. The course will include instruction on effective strategies such as identifying text structure, building background knowledge, making relevant connections to the text, inferring, and asking questions. Through reflective journaling, written summaries, and oral presentations, students will demonstrate their comprehension of the various texts.