English/
Language Arts
If you are interested in PBL courses, please see the Project Based Learning Academy page that can be found here.
4 Credits Required to Graduate
Recommended Course Sequence
Grade 9 select 1 credit from:
English I
Accelerated English I
Grade 10 select 1 credit from:
English II
Accelerated English II
AP Seminar Capstone
Grades 11-12 select 1 credit from:
English III
American Studies (Engish III) - WHS ONLY
AP English Language & Composition (0.5 cr. Am. Lit., 0.5 cr. Comp)
all students must select Composition & American Literature options
Grades 9-12 select 0.5 credit from:
Speech or Debate
Grades 9-12 elective 0.5 credit from:
English courses listed in English section not taken for a required class (except American Film History)
ENGLISH I
LAE-3011/3012
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 9
Location: LHS, RHS, WHS
This year-long, integrated course is designed for students to develop skills in reading (literature and informational) texts, writing, speaking, and listening. The focus on reading and writing supports the District's philosophy statement to teach 21st century skills and research-based instructional strategies. Students learn to analyze literature, broaden spoken and written vocabulary, apply literary techniques within compositions, reinforce proper writing conventions (mechanics, usage, and grammar), practice paragraph development and essay writing, develop critical thinking skills, and integrate technology into learning.
ACCELERATED ENGLISH I
LAE-4011/4012
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 9
A thematic-structured curriculum designed for the highly-able and motivated student; identify literary techniques and begin to analyze their use in various genres; broaden spoken and written vocabulary; apply literary techniques and composition skills to developing thematic projects; reinforce basic mechanics, usage, and grammar; practice paragraph development and apply to essay writing; develop critical thinking skills and focus on higher level thinking skills; integrate technology into learning.
HUMANITIES I
LAEN3011/3012 & LASN3010 & SSGN3010/3020
Length/Credit: One Year, two hour block, 2 credits
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 9
Location: PBL Academy at Jefferson
Humanities I analyzes physical and human geography found in various pieces of literature while improving writing and research strategies as well as reading comprehension. The course also works to advance student proficiency in public speaking and collaboration skills through a course that combines English I, World Geography I, World Geography II, and Speech content.
ENGLISH II
LAE-3021/3022
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 10
Location: LHS, RHS, WHS
The purpose of English II is to engage students in authentic reading and writing tasks, to target specific writing skills, to develop a variety of reading strategies, and to expose students to a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts. Students will read and write for a variety of purposes that will focus on argumentative, expository, narrative, and persuasive modes.
ACCELERATED ENGLISH II
LAE-4021/4022
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit | requires a summer reading component
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 10
Focus on essay writing to improve paragraph structure and integration of evidence; increase written and spoken vocabulary; use higher thinking skills of questioning, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation; engage in research and complete a portfolio of work; practice for standardized, AP, and/or college entrance exams; use multimedia reference materials.
HUMANITIES II
LAEN3021/3022 & SSSN3080 & SSHN3070
Length/Credit: One Year, two hour block, 2 credits
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 10
Location: PBL Academy at Jefferson
Humanities II challenges students to examine and analyze major historical events and current global issues through the lens of literature and collaborative projects. This course combines English II, and social studies electives World History and Global Issues.
AP SEMINAR CAPSTONE
LAE-5021/5022
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 10-12
Students are expected to take the AP exam.
AP Seminar, the first course in the AP Capstone experience, 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.
DEBATE I
LAD-3010
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English elective or Speech requirement
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 9-12
Retrieve information using all available library media; use all components of an organized argument; demonstrate cross-examination techniques using open, probing, and critical thinking and questioning skills; demonstrate problem-solving strategies on policy issues by writing and presenting an affirmative case; demonstrate skills in individual events, either through extemporaneous speaking or original oratory speeches; refute arguments presented on all sides of an issue; support claims of arguments by using evidence effectively; use critical thinking skills in the presentation of a debate; demonstrate effective speaking skills in presenting arguments by using debate skills; demonstrate proper interpersonal skills in an adversarial setting.
DEBATE II
LAD-3020
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English elective or Speech requirement
Prerequisite: Debate I, Open to grade 9-12
Expand the areas of persuasion, research, and argumentation explored in Debate I; demonstrate skills in individual events, either through extemporaneous speaking or original oratory speeches; demonstrate skills in theory and practice of Lincoln/Douglas debate; demonstrate skills in parliamentary procedure and debate through Student Congress; present an affirmative case and negative arguments on the next year’s debate topic; demonstrate advanced argumentation skills in competitive debates.
TEAM DEBATE
LAD-3031/3032
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit | English elective
Prerequisite: Debate I & Debate II, Open to grade 10-12
Designed for those students participating on the advanced debate squads.
Demonstrate the use of advanced argumentation skills in competitive debates; demonstrate skill in debate and parliamentary procedure using the Student Congress mode; demonstrate advanced communication skills in oratory or extemporaneous speaking; demonstrate speech critiquing skills by judging novice debate contests; demonstrate advanced research skills in writing affirmative and negative arguments.
SPEECH
LAS-3010
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English graduation requirement
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 9-12
Research and utilize electronic and nonelectronic library information; demonstrate organizational skills in writing speeches, outlines and note cards; exhibit an appreciation for other student ideas and opinions; demonstrate poise, self-confidence, and skills in public speaking in a one-on-one setting, a small group setting and multiple large group settings.
FUNDAMENTALS OF COMMUNICATION (SPEECH)
This is taken as a Dual Credit course.
LLS-4020
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English graduation requirement
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Students must meet Dual Credit requirements and are responsible for Dual Credit fees and course materials.
This course introduces the study of speech fundamentals and critical thinking through frequent public speaking practice, including setting, purpose, audience, and subject. This is done by drawing upon dialogic traditions to teach the theoretical processes and effective practices of message development, reception, and analysis.
SPANISH IMMERSION SPEECH
LASI3010
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 9-12, Spanish Immersion Students Only or native Spanish speakers with instructor approval
This course will be conducted entirely in Spanish. Research and utilize electronic and nonelectronic library information; demonstrate organizational skills in writing speeches, outlines and note cards; exhibit an appreciation for other student ideas and opinions; demonstrate poise, self-confidence, and skills in public speaking in a one-on-one setting, a small group setting and multiple large group settings.
ENGLISH III (American Literature and Composition)
LAE-3031/3032
Length/Credit: Two Semesters, 1 credit | English graduation requirement
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
English III combines literature by American authors with focused writing assignments. Students read various pieces of literature; become familiar with author backgrounds, writings, and themes; develop communication skills; find personal meaning by responding to the literature; and recognize the relationship between American history and literature. Writing assignments include descriptive, narrative, persuasive, and expository paragraphs, essays, articles, critiques, and incorporate research techniques and skills into a formal paper or project. Students write for specific audience; broaden vocabulary and increase critical thinking skills; and revise and proofread work for style, grammar, and mechanical errors.
AMERICAN STUDIES
LAE-3031/3032 & SSH-3021/3022
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit, Integrated option for 2 credits:
American History (1 cr.) & American Literature (0.5 cr.) & Composition (0.5 cr.)
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Location: WHS only
This class meets daily in a two-period block.
American Studies is a year-long survey course combining the study of American history with American literature and composition. This two-period block class provides an interdisciplinary approach to the three required courses. The chronological study of history from the pre-Civil War period to the present blends an appreciation for different literary genres throughout our nation’s history, helps students develop critical reading and writing skills, focuses on vocabulary building, and includes art, music, film, and other cultural developments of historical eras. If successfully completed, the student earns one credit for American history, 0.5 credit for American Literature, and 0.5 credit for Composition. Most students register for this course for the junior year of high school.
AP RESEARCH CAPSTONE
LAC-5021/5022
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit
Prerequisite: AP Seminar Capstone with passing AP score of 3 or higher, Open to grade 11-12
Students are expected to take the AP 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, they further the skills they 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 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.
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION
LAL-5011,LAC-5012
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit: American Literature (0.5 cr.) & Composition (0.5 cr.)
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Students are expected to take the AP exam.
This course provides preparation for the AP Language and Composition Exam given in the spring. Recommended for college-bound students. Students must see the instructor for summer reading requirements.
Trace trends in American Literature; analyze writing by identifying theme, style, tone, and purpose; analyze literature; increase reading and vocabulary; respond to other students’ writing; respond clearly and concisely to timed essay questions; understand and evaluate the semantic, structural, and rhetorical features of language; demonstrate use of all elements of the writing process; incorporate research techniques and skills into a formal paper/project. Read and analyze novels and dramas in terms of theme, structure, and style; develop techniques for finding artistic merits of short stories and poems; locate and use literary analysis through discussion, timed writing, and extended research; refine expository writing skills; participate in large and small group discussion; participate in cooperative groups; use technology to utilize research techniques.
AP ENGLISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION
LAE-5011/5012
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit | English Elective
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 12
Students are expected to take the AP exam.
Students must see the instructor for summer reading requirements. This course provides preparation for the AP Literature and Composition Exam and is recommended for college-bound students.
Read and analyze primarily imaginative literature, including novels, dramas, short stories, and poetry in terms of theme, structure, and style; analyze literature through discussion, timed writing, research, cooperative learning groups, and large and small group discussions; develop college-level analytical writing and thinking skills; broaden vocabulary; apply test-taking strategies and practice for success on the AP Literature and Composition exam.
CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE
LAL-3080
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English elective
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Read contemporary literature that reflects a society's political, social and personal views including, but not limited to short stories, novels, poetry, essays, and dramas; discuss current relevance, evaluate effectiveness in writing. Respond to assignments in clear and logical writing; identify and explain literary terms; analyze the interaction among plot, narrative, structure, and language in literature.
WORLD LITERATURE
LAL-3070
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English elective
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Read and evaluate novels, short stories, drama, and poems written by a variety of authors from throughout the world to develop an understanding of the universality of literature. Analyze how the history and the culture of the region have influenced each piece of writing. Work independently and with others to analyze the literary merit of differing global perspectives and mythologies. Create, write, develop, edit, and present multimedia presentations using a variety of technologies. Literature is studied from regions such as South Africa, Korea, China, Brazil, Spain, Marianas Islands, India, Russia, Germany, Japan, Norway, and many other parts of the world.
BRITISH LITERATURE
LAL-3040
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English elective
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
British Literature is all about making connections. From the earliest works in the English language to modern novels and short stories, students will learn about British authors, their works and influences. Exploration will be through reading, writing, discussing, and presenting.
CREATIVE WRITING
LAC-3040
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English elective
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Use imagination, creativity, and technology in writing. Experience various genres of writing, primarily fiction, nonfiction, and poetry; interact with others to develop ideas for writing; share, edit, and revise personal writing and the writing of others; evaluate strengths and weaknesses of writers; submit pieces for publication.
ENGLISH FOR COLLEGE READINESS
LAC-4020
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English elective
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
This course does not fulfill the Composition graduation requirement. It does fulfill the English elective requirement.
Recommended for the college-bound senior.
A college bound class geared towards applicable writing and communication standards for seniors seeking post-secondary education. Focus will be placed on collaborative and individual work that incorporates the narrative process, compare/contrast, analysis, college/military and workplace centered writing, argumentative critical thinking skills incorporated in ethical/social awareness, evaluate, organize, and integrate writing and research skills all while demonstrating the proper use of mechanics and English grammar language skills.
JOURNALISM
LAJ-3010
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English elective
Prerequisite: a "C" or higher in English I, Photo I class a plus, Open to grade 10-12
This course does not count as Enlish requirement for South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship. This course may not count for English credit at some colleges/ universities.
Please check with your selected college/university for specific requirements.
Students who enjoy writing and have above-average writing skills and interest in journalism may register. Develop skills in interviewing, gathering, writing, and editing features, editorials and news stories; critique layout/design of professional press; keep informed of daily news; develop word process and page design, photography, and programming techniques; understand legal and ethical restrictions of journalists.
JOURNALISM/NEWSPAPER
LAJ-3021/3022
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit | one semester counts as an English elective and additional semesters as General elective
Prerequisite: a "C" or higher in Journalism, Photo I class a plus, Open to grade 10-12
This course does not count as Enlish requirement for South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship. Advance visitation with the newspaper advisor is required.
This course may not count for English credit at some colleges/ universities. Please check with your selected college/university for specific requirements.
Students who enjoy writing and have above-average writing skills and interest in journalism may register. Develop advanced skills in understanding, gathering, writing all types of stories; edit and write headlines; prepare copy for print; study principles of advertising writing and design of photojournalism; apply rules of punctuation, spelling, and usage. Upper level writing skills, consistent attendance, and ability to work with others are necessary for success in this class.
JOURNALISM/YEARBOOK
LAJ-3031/3032
Length/Credits: One Year, 1 credit | one semester counts as an English elective and additional semesters as General elective
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 10-12
This course does not count as Enlish requirement for South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship. Advance visitation with the yearbook advisor suggested.
This course may not count for English credit at some colleges/universities. Please check with your selected college/university for specific requirements.
Conduct interviews; write, revise, and edit copy (stories, captions, and sidebar text); design yearbook page layouts using the computer; learn photography settings appropriate to required photo shoots; apply photography principles in selecting quality photos; compose and crop all photos to fit spread design; understand legal and ethical restrictions of journalists; accept staff position for yearbook and carry out duties for the year. Upper level writing skills, consistent attendance, meeting deadlines, and ability to work with others are necessary for success in this class.
ORAL INTERPRETATION
LAO-3010
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English or Fine Arts elective
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 9-12
This course may not count for English credit at some colleges/ universities. Please check with your selected college/university for specific requirements. This is a co-curricular contracted course. If enrolled in the course, students must attend a minimum number of tournaments indicated on the instructor’s course contract.
Understand the art and craft of competitive speaking; create or find appropriate cuttings of literature; write appropriate introductions; write a persuasive and/or informative speech; research and utilize electronic and nonelectric library information; understand the full range of academic, vocal, and physical skills needed to make presentations enjoyable and to convey they author’s meaning; demonstrate poise, self-confidence, and skills in public speaking; exhibit good personal communication and audience member skills; appreciate the skills and performance of others; learn to accept constructive criticism; develop an appreciation of the lifetime skills gained through oral interpretation and public speaking.
TEAM ORAL INTERPRETATION
LAO-3020
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit | English or Fine Arts elective
Prerequisite: Oral Interpretation and/or completed Novice year of competition, Open to grade 10-12
This is a co-curricular contracted course. If enrolled in the course, students must attend a minimum number of tournaments indicated on the instructor’s course contract. This course may not count for English credit at some colleges/ universities. Please check with your selected college/university for specific requirements. This course requires the permission of the instructor.
Locate appropriate, quality pieces of literature for presentation and competition; cut literature to fit limitations imposed by competition; write an appropriate introduction; analyze the thematic elements of the selection; profile character through detailed analyses; utilize a full range fo academic, vocal, and physical skills to best present a selection; develop an emotional empathy for the situation and character; exhibit strong personal communication attributes such as confidence, poise, and rapport with an audience; exhibit audience member skills such as attentiveness, courtesy, and appreciation; appropriately critique and judge other performances; appropriately mentor novice team members; gain an appreciation of the skills and performances of others; learn to accept constructive criticism in a positive manner; develop an appreciation of the lifetime skills gained through oral interpretation and public speaking.
AMERICAN FILM HISTORY
ELE-3030
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Fulfills a general elective requirement. Does not meet English selective requirement.
Lights! Camera! Action!
In our media driven world, film and motion pictures have an important impact on our lives and our culture. This course looks at how American films have communicated and impacted the film industry since the beginning of the 20th Century. Technical and social aspects of award winning and classic cinematic storytelling are examined and how these processes have impacted today's filmmakers and audiences.
AMERICAN EXPERIENCE
SSHN3021/3022, LALN3031, LACN3032, ELEN3030
Length/Credit: One Year, 1 credit, Two Hour Block, 2.5 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11
Location: PBL Academy at Jefferson
Meets American History, American Literature and Composition graduation requirements, and General Elective credit.
In American Experience, students have a chance to learn about some of America’s most important events by participating in collaborative projects and presenting their end product to show content knowledge. Students work to create authentic projects in conjunction with community partners. The course examines the impact society and history have on literature. Notable projects previously completed include #myparty12, America@War, and War Games. This course fulfills the graduation requirement for American Literature and Composition in addition to credit for US History. Students also receive 1/2 elective credit for this course.
TEACHER PATHWAY I
This may be taken as a Dual Credit course.
ELE-3460
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Dual credit class where students are visiting another classroom at least once a week. Recommended for students considering a career in the field of education.
Fulfills a general elective requirement. Does not meet English selective requirement.
Explore a profession in teaching without the commitment of college tuition! Gain a clear understanding of the diversity of career options within this field through exciting hands-on experience, discussion, speakers, reading, writing, collaboration, and reflection. Learn about learning! By leaving the high school classroom at least once a week, you will use your curiosity to explore classrooms from the perspective of an educator. You will reflect on your own learning experiences as well as understand learning environments, teaching methodology, and best practices. Discover ways you can become an active part of the education field!
TEACHER PATHWAY II
This may be taken as a Dual Credit course.
LAE-3150
Length/Credit: One Semester, 0.5 credit
Prerequisite: None, Open to grade 11-12
Dual credit class where students are visiting another classroom at least once a week. Recommended for students considering a career in the field of education. This semester includes a research component.
Fulfills an English elective requirement.
Explore a profession in teaching without the commitment of college tuition! Gain a clear understanding of diversity of career options within this field through exciting hands-on experience, discussion, speakers, reading, writing, collaboration, and reflection. Learn about learning! By leaving the high school classroom at least once a week, you will use your curiosity to explore classrooms from the perspective of an educator. You will reflect on your own learning experiences as well as understand learning environments, teaching methodology, and best practices. Discover ways you can become an active part of the education field! This semester includes a research component.