AP Literature/Composition and IB Literature HL - 1 Course Syllabus
Teacher: Gala Reece, Room 95
Contact Information: 864-355-5753, greece@greenville.k12.sc.us
Combined Course Overview:
This course combines Advanced Placement Literature and Composition (AP LIT) with
International Baccalaureate Literature High Level-1 (IB LIT HL-1) and is taught over two semesters. The culminating assessment will be the nationally administered AP Literature Exam in the Spring. Formal assessments of the International Baccalaureate Program would take place during the 2nd year (Higher Level Literature - 2) if students decide to continue in the International Baccalaureate program.
General Information about AP Literature and Composition:
“The AP English Literature and Composition course focuses on reading, analyzing, and writing about imaginative literature (fiction, poetry, drama) from various periods. Students engage in close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, and symbolism. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require students to analyze and interpret literary works” (“AP English Literature Course”).
This class focuses on analysis of literature through the “Big Ideas”: (1) character development, (2) setting, (3) structure, (4) narration, and (5) figurative language and then learning the art of (6) literary argumentation to communicate interpretations effectively.
General Information about IB Literature HL-1:
from the Diploma Programme Subject Brief for IB Literature at www.ibo.org/en/dp
The course is organized into three areas of exploration and seven central concepts, and focuses on the study of literary works. Together, the three areas of exploration of the course add up to a comprehensive exploration of literature from a variety of cultures, literary forms and periods. Students learn to appreciate the artistry of literature, and develop the ability to reflect critically on their reading, presenting literary analysis powerfully through both oral and written communication.
Texts:
“Literature & Composition, Essential Voices, Essential Skills for the AP Course” (third edition), BFW Publishers
Major works (included in textbook):
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Poems, Poets, Poetry, An Introduction and Anthology (2nd Edition) by Helen Vendler, Bedford St. Martin’s, 2002.
Grading Scale:
Major Grades (60%) – literature/unit tests, literature-related projects, some practice AP questions/tests, final drafts of compositions
Minor Grades (40%) – vocabulary/reading quizzes, some practice AP questions/tests, minor writing assignments, classwork
Assessment:
Formal IB assessments occur in the 2nd year of IB Literature. (IB Literature HL- 2).
The student’s final grade in the course addressed by this syllabus will be determined by performance on the major and minor assignments given by the instructor. Students will also take the nationally administered AP Literature Exam in the Spring. Although their score on that exam will not be reflected in their grade for this class, their exam score, if passing or above, will open up options of exempting college English coursework. Requirements vary by university.