English 9

This course will challenge students to strengthen their inferential reasoning and critical essay writing abilities. There will be a substantial amount of nightly homework. Students can expect to be assigned readings with accompanying writing assignments. Students can also expect to complete formal writing assignments, present material to the class on a regular basis, and be responsible for independently interpreting outside reading materials such as The Odyssey and others.

**Please note that our curricula are under constant review and may be adjusted to suit the needs of our students. These changes may take place more quickly than can be reflected on this site at a given moment in time. We will update periodically.

Course Enduring Understandings:

An author's style, voice, and purpose are revealed through diction, syntax, imagery, mood, and tone.

The various genres of literature have specific elements.

An essay contains paragraphs, thesis statement, topic sentences, concrete details, and commentary.

Literary analysis includes a close examination of the elements of fiction (including plot, character, point of view, theme, setting, symbolism, diction, and syntax).

Grammar creates effective communication and improves written expression; understanding grammar helps writers edit and revise their own work.

Vocabulary creates effective communication and improves written and verbal expression; understanding vocabulary helps writers revise their own work.

Core Texts:

The Odyssey--Epic Conventions

Macbeth--Conventions of Tragedy

On Two Feet and Wings by Abbas Kazerooni-- Novel/Memoir

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas--Novel

Dear Martin by Nic Stone--Novel

A Time to Dance by Padma Venkatraman (as time allows) Novel in Verse

Shakespearean Sonnets and Selected Poems (across units)

Vocabulary and Grammar are taught throughout the course.

Grading Weights:

Homework(notes)/Participation/Classwork 15%

Quizzes 15%

Written Responses (journals, etc.) 20%

Unit Assessments (tests, essays) 50%

Targeted Writing Skills for Grade 9:

Scroll down for a sample of the writing skills we are targeting for mastery in grade 9. This is not an exhaustive list, rather a priority list for this year.

Parent/Student Survey for English 9:

Scroll down for a brief survey through which you can share your input to help us improve the student experience with the HHS English Department.