• Critically read literature from a variety of genres and time periods representing classic American and British literature

• Study works that require careful, deliberate reading leading to individual student analysis

• Demonstrate college-level skill in writing formal literary analysis comprised of analytical argumentative, expository, and interpretive essays

• Incorporate effective elements of composition – vocabulary, variety of sentence structures, organization, rhetorical devices, standard written English, etc.—into student writing

• Recognize a variety of figurative language, imagery, and literary devices, especially in poetry, but in all works and types of fiction and nonfiction

• Compare and contrast aspects of several literary works such as paired poems, characters, themes, etc.

• Apply critical reading, writing, and thinking skills to a work of literature and employ literary terminology and devices properly in written analysis

• Write effectively under time constraints to prepare for AP exams and college course requirements

• Comfortably discuss and probe ideas and opinions in both small and large group settings, including leading class or small group discussion

• Maintain a high level of preparation for class; respect the literature by spending the necessary time on rereading and assessment.

•  Students will prepare for the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition and will strive to earn at least a 4 or 5 on the exam.

**Texts vary depending on skill needs and students' interests; the following are the main texts**

A Raisin in the Sun

Beloved

King Lear

The Great Gatsby

The Awakening

1984

"The Pearl"

"Of Mice and Men"