[ English ]
ENGLISH PHILOSOPHY
The aim of the English Department is for students to understand themselves and others through the written and spoken word. In a time when hearing and analyzing another person’s perspective and choices is important, literature helps students explore the world from the comfort of their classroom. The English department strives to provide content that is challenging, engaging and portrays a variety of American and world voices.
ENGLISH OBJECTIVES
Students will read, comprehend, interpret, evaluate and respond to written material.
Students will read and respond to various genres of significant literature.
Students will write as a means of developing fluency and as a tool for learning.
Students will write standard English in a grammatically acceptable, coherent, and well-organized manner.
Students will speak effectively in formal and informal situations to communicate ideas and information.
Students will listen critically and analytically.
Students will develop critical thinking skills through the study of language and literature.
English Placement Process
Our goal is to look at each student’s ability thoughtfully and individually and place them in a level that is challenging but not overwhelming. While all core English levels follow the same curricula and target the same exit skills, the pacing, delivery methods, level of independence, type of homework, and assessments vary between levels.
Most students are appropriately challenged by their current English level and will remain in their current level. However, some students whose consistent excellence and superior academic motivation indicate they are ready for the next “level up” in English may be recommended to the next level by their English teacher. Others, who are inappropriately placed and struggling in their current placement, may be recommended to move to a level more appropriate for their overall success. All students will learn about their recommended placement in English for the following year from their current English teacher. For the majority of students, the placement process for English will be complete at this point.
Some students, after hearing about their English placement, may decide they want to appeal their teacher’s decision and “move up” a level beyond the recommendation. To appeal a teacher’s placement recommendation, student(s) and parent(s)/guardian(s) must complete all the steps outlined below, including the after-school placement essay.
Only students wishing to appeal the teacher’s recommended level of English placement will complete the steps below. None of the steps can be skipped, and each must be completed in order.
Step 1: Complete a 45-minute after-school English placement essay. Students must attend one of the three scheduled after-school opportunities to complete this requirement.
**For 2022, these after-school appeal placement essays will be held on February 8, 10, and 15 after school in room 218 at 2:15 pm.
Step 2: After the student completes the placement essay as directed in Step 1, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will email the English Department Chair (bsancher@email.medfield.net) to schedule a meeting. The student, parent(s)/guardian(s), and the department chair will attend this meeting, and the department chair will review academic expectations for the next “level up” for the student. The placement essay, in addition to other samples of the student’s work will be reviewed.
Step 3: The student, parent(s)/guardian(s), and department chair will all sign the appeal form prior to the April vacation, and this change will be made to the student’s schedule for the next school year.
AP English Classes - The English department offers two very different AP classes; please see their course descriptions.
Honors English classes focus on analytical writing, upper level style techniques, and syntactical sophistication. Honors pacing/delivery is demanding and challenging. It often precludes grammar/structural review techniques. Students are expected to have exceptional written and oral organizational skills. Novels are often read independently and assigned for a short reading period. Homework is typically in essay format. Independent work is stressed. Although teachers are careful to remind students about homework and due dates, Honors students must take responsibility for these deadlines. Punctuality and readiness are non-negotiable expectations at the Honors level. Long-term assignments are a hallmark of Honors classes. They are often done completely independent of classroom discussion and frame an important part of Honors homework; other short-term writing, responding, and reading assignments are given daily.
C1 level courses follow the identical curriculum, but analytical writing delivery is, by design, at a more moderate and incremental pace. Analytical writing is an important part of the curriculum, and faculty work closely with classes to help students understand the blueprint of sound analytical writing, crafting lessons to incrementalize each portion of the writing process. Often, but not always faculty offer peer editing and rough draft opportunities to ready students for the final and graded submission. Grammar delivery is similar, with review, practice, and application delivered at an appropriate and incremental pace. Our novels are often showcased within our classroom discussion; time is set aside to help students understand the relationship of plot to theme. Guide questions and/or in-class discussion are part of our novel unit design. Homework is given on a daily basis; this includes reading assignments as well as written work.
C2 level courses share the same curriculum and emphasize identical exit skills; however, delivery in a C2 class is tailored to individual student need. Writing instruction includes emphasis on pre-writing, organizational strategies, rough drafting, and editing. Time is devoted to mastery at each of these important stages in the writing process. Delivery is, by design, incremental. Handouts, organizational aids including graphic organizers, and study questions help ensure students gain understanding and mastery in reading, writing, and communication. Novels are part of in-class discussions where students gain mastery in understanding the relationship between plot and such complex concepts as symbol and theme. Grammar, an important part of writing mastery, is a key component in C2 English. Instruction includes ways to integrate good grammar skills into student writing.
REQUIRED COURSES
ENGLISH 9
Grade 9
Full year - 5 credits
This course is designed to provide students an integrated study of literature, composition, grammar and usage, and vocabulary. Development and improvement of students’ skills in literal and inferential reading composition, written and oral communication, and abstract and critical thinking are major goals of Grade 9 English.
English 9 (College II) - Course #102
English 9 (College I) - Course #101
English 9 (Honors) - Course #100
(Summer) Honors students must complete a teacher-selected outside reading novel in preparation for an assessment scheduled for the first week of classes. This assessment includes an in-class writing component shortly after classes begin for the year.
WORLD LITERATURE
Grade 10
Full year - 5 credits
In this course students will read literary works of major writers from around the world from 1800 to the present and explore the characteristics of the various literary periods. This course will integrate grammar, usage, mechanics, vocabulary development, and oral communication. Additionally, students will analyze, criticize, and respond to their reading through a broad range of writing experiences.
World Literature (College II) - Course #143
World Literature (College I) - Course #142
World Literature (Honors) - Course #141
(Summer) Honors students must complete a teacher-selected outside reading novel in preparation for an assessment scheduled for the first week of class. This assessment includes an in-class writing component.
AMERICAN LITERATURE
Grade 11
Full year - 5 credits
This course is designed for juniors to strengthen their appreciation and interpretation of literature, writing ability, understanding of grammar, oral expression, vocabulary development and research skills. This course provides students with a comprehensive study of outstanding works of American literature in a variety of genres. Students also review and apply the basic principles of expository writing, grammar, and usage to their own compositions. Furthermore, the techniques and skills of clear, logical, and effective analytical writing and thinking are stressed.
American Literature (College II) - Course #135
American Literature (College I) - Course #134
American Literature (Honors) - Course #133
(Summer) Honors Students must complete a teacher-selected outside reading novel in preparation for an assessment scheduled for the first week of classes. This assessment includes an in-class writing component.
Students enrolled in Honors American Literature are strongly encouraged to enroll in Expository Writing.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION
Course #154
Grade 11
Full Year - 5 credits
This Advanced Placement Language and Composition course uses non-fiction to teach students to both think and write critically, convincingly and entertainingly. Students who choose this AP Language and Composition course should be interested in understanding more about the process and creation of well-reasoned, evidenced-centered rhetorical (argument) or persuasive essays, a key skill for college writing. One of our main goals is for students to find their unique voice as writers. Readings include memoirs, essays and articles; students soon learn that good writing can often pop up in the most unexpected places. Writing is an integral part of this course, and assignments are, in large part, essay-based. As part of fulfilling course expectations in AP Language and Composition, students will take the Advanced Placement Language and Composition examination in May.
Prerequisite:
Approval of current English teacher and Content Specialist
B+ or better in Honors World Literature or teacher recommendation
Strong reading, writing and communication skills
(Summer) AP Work: AP English Language and Composition students will complete a summer reading assignment that includes a number of related non-fiction works. AP Language and Composition students will complete an analytical paper that incorporates assigned readings as sources/references.
ENGLISH LITERATURE
Grade 12
Full year - 5 credits
This course is designed as a chronological survey of English literature from Beowulf to the present. Students will become familiar with major British writers and genres. Regular reading and frequent analytical writing assignments are required.
English Literature (College II) - Course #150
English Literature (College I) - Course #151
English Literature (Honors) - Course #152
(Summer) Honors Work: Honors students must complete two teacher-selected outside reading novels and essay assignment. The paper is due the first full day of classes.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION
Course #153
Grade 12
Full Year - 5 credits
This Advanced Placement course in English Literature and Composition engages students in careful reading and critical analysis of literature originally written in English from the sixteenth century to the present. Through close reading of selected texts, students deepen their understanding of structure, style, theme, figurative language, symbolism, and tone. Writing is an integral part of the course, and assignments focus on the critical analysis of literature and include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays. As part of fulfilling course expectations in AP Literature and Composition, students will take the AP Exam in May.
Prerequisite:
Approval of current English teacher and department chair
B or better in Honors American Literature
Strong reading, writing and communication skills.
(Summer) AP Literature Work: AP English Literature and Composition students must read two works of literature and complete required written assignments for the first full day of classes and prepare for an additional in-class essay on the second piece of literature.
QUARTER COURSES
Quarter courses are available to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Courses will run for the duration of a term. Students must select a minimum of two quarter courses, totaling 2.5 credits. Students can select two or four quarter courses within their schedule.
BUILDING BRIDGES THROUGH LITERATURE
Course #155
Grade 10-12
Quarter - 1.25 credits
Elie Wiesel, author and holocaust survivor, once said, “The only way for us to help ourselves is to help others and to listen to each other’s stories.” In a world that feels more divided than ever, perhaps the best way for us to build bridges is to listen to each other’s stories. In this semester-long course, we’ll read the stories of people from all backgrounds and experiences in an effort to understand each other better - and ultimately, also, to better understand ourselves. Our texts will include autobiographies, novels, short stories, poetry, essays, and speeches. We’ll examine these stories through the lens of understanding, and we will also write our own.
EXPOSITORY AND ANALYTICAL WRITING
Course #116
Grades 10-12
Quarter - 1.25 credits
This course is designed to help students prepare for the type and depth of writing expected in college. Assignments are structured to teach writing as a process. Close attention is paid to gaining analytical skills, sentence and paragraph structure, word choice, organization, and coherence. There is strong emphasis on rewriting for the purpose of developing clarity and coherence in students’ writing. Students write a variety of essays including, when applicable, the college application essay.
HARRY POTTER AND THE MEDFIELD STUDENT
Course #156
Grade 10-12
Quarter - 1.25 credits
Whether you are a Harry Potter fan and have read every book, just seen the movies, or never heard of him this class is for you! During the course you will read, discuss, and dissect the Harry Potter book series. From looking at the books through a mythological, allegorical, and constructive lens you’ll be able to demonstrate your knowledge of the wizarding world.
INTRODUCTION TO CREATIVE WRITING
Course #103
Grades 10-12
Semester - 1.25 credits
This course is designed to introduce the structure and content of the Creative Writing Workshop. The course is at developing the student’s ability to write poetry and short fiction in an individual and group setting. Daily writing is required. Students must be willing to share and revise their work with their peers in order to evaluate writing techniques and develop the ability to judge effective writing. Emphasis will be placed upon the student as editor of their own work and that of their classmates. This course is recommended to any student with a strong commitment to writing.
SEMESTER ELECTIVE COURSES
CREATIVE WRITING ADVANCED (A YEAR 2022-2023, 2024-2025 )
Course #124
Grade 11-12
Semester - 2.5 credits
This course is designed for eleventh and twelfth graders with a strong commitment to writing. This workshop is aimed at developing the student’s ability to write poetry and short fiction. Daily writing is required. Students will read and evaluate the effectiveness of poetry and fiction of various styles, and work to craft their own pieces, which will be shared and revised with their peers. Emphasis will be placed upon the student as editor and curator of their own work and that of their classmates, as they create a portfolio of both poetry and fiction.
Please Note: Intro to Creative Writing is not a prerequisite for this course.
DRAMA WORKSHOP (A YEAR 2022-2023, 2024-2025 )
Course # 117
Grades 9-12
Semester - 2.5 credits
This course has fun built into its design, allowing students a stress-free way to practice techniques to eliminate stage fright (even when not on stage) and build confidence. Learn basic principles of stage movement, voice, blocking, acting, improvisation, and even pantomime. During this semester-long course, students will explore acting techniques, improvisation, costuming, and stage blocking. Designed to offer students a low-key workshop atmosphere that offers students a way to gain skills about working with each other on and off a stage. This course fulfills the fine arts graduation requirement.
FILM THEORY
Course #122
Grades 11 - 12
Semester - 2.5 credits
This semester elective will explore the history of film, its cultural impact over the generations, important film movements, and analytical theory. Class time will be dedicated to viewing and analyzing films, as well as helping students understand the medium’s importance and impact. The philosophy is to expose students to many different types of films, from the silent era of the nickelodeons to present day. A look at the annual Golden Globes and Academy Awards offers additional insight into how our society interacts with both the art and business of the motion picture. Much of this course is based on discussions, both formal and informal. Grading will include individual and group projects, activities, and various methods of written reflections.
GRAPHIC STORYTELLING: THE ILLUSTRATED WORLD (B YEAR 2023-2024, 2025-2026)
Course # 123
Grades 9-12
Semester - 2.5 credits
What began as comic books about heroes and heroines has rapidly become a format for credible, scholarly literature. Within this one-semester course, students will explore how graphic novels began and how they gained popularity to serve multiple audiences as a credible form of literature, celebrated not only for literary insight, but also visual perspective. Students will explore varied techniques in 2-dimensional design leading to the production of an original, creative work to serve as a practical example.
HONORS WRITING SEMINAR
Course #128
Grades 11-12
Semester - 2.5 credits
This seminar offers students the opportunity to explore the writing and editing processes in depth, beyond the skills practiced in English class. Students create original compositions in various styles, including expository, analytical and creative writing. In addition to completing the course curriculum, course participants are trained to serve as peer tutors and editors for our school’s Writing Center. This class is offered both fall and spring semesters. Students may take this course for repeat credit as an independent study.
SHAKESPEARE HONORS (B YEAR 2023-2024, 2025-2026)
Course #149
Grades 10 - 12
Semester - 2.5 credits
No writer has reflected the Elizabethan Age with greater accuracy than William Shakespeare; yet, he created characters, developed incidents, and explored themes that are “not of an age, but for all time.” This course provides an in-depth study of several Shakespearean tragedies, comedies, and histories. Students will demonstrate their understanding of the universality, structure, and content of the plays in both structured and informal discussions, written analyses, and performance activities. Plus, you learn the basics of stage combat!
SPEECH
Course #120
Grades 9-12
Semester - 2.5 credits
This course provides students with opportunities to organize, prepare, and deliver speeches for different audiences and for a variety of purposes. Within this safe and fun workshop class students will grow their own speech-making skills by reading and watching famous historical and modern speeches. In addition, students will be given the opportunity to practice their growing speech skills with each other and with targeted audiences outside the classroom. This course’s goals include increased self-confidence, the ability to organize information clearly and logically, and the ability to persuade others using solid speech-making strategies and supporting data.
YEARBOOK
Course #148
Grades 11-12
Semester - 2.5 credits
Students in this first-semester course will help to produce the school’s yearbook. The course combines design, writing, editing, and publishing. Students learn to work within an organizational structure that includes senior editors and section teams, and they will also sell business advertisements for the yearbook. In a workshop-style environment, students will collaborate to brainstorm and produce the Medfield High School yearbook, a tradition of timeless excellence.
Note: During the fall semester of Yearbook, students may be considered for a Yearbook Independent Study for second semester. Specifically, students can apply to be editors to take on more responsibility and get deeply involved with the creation of the yearbook!