Classes

English 10: Language and Literature

This course has an intense focus on critical reading and writing processes to prepare all students for their post-secondary aspirations. Students will build upon the skills gained in 9th grade, and expand writing, reading, research, and communication abilities in conjunction with MYP (Middle Years Program) Approaches to Learning and the MN State ELA standards. 

As an IB World School, our units are organized around inquiry statements and questions that help focus learning, develop curiosity, and promote critical thinking.  Some of the genres we will study in this class include memoir/personal narrative, novels, plays, poetry, and short stories. Students will also develop a Personal Project, where they choose a topic to explore in a long-term project of their design, and reflect in writing.

English 10 Language & Literature Syllabus 

Advanced Writing Courses 

College Prep Writing

Semester: Fall

College Prep Writing offers 12th grade students a chance to move beyond basic essay writing and feel confident about using their voice to express their point of view. Students will write regularly for a variety of purposes, and improve their ability to write clearly and effectively.  Reading assignments, class discussions, writing conferences, and analyzing others' writing will support student learning.

The reading and writing in this class will center on topics related to social justice, language, and diverse perspectives.  Students will have opportunities to reflect on personal connections to different issues, communities, and experiences in the world. By the end of the semester, students will have written papers in which they describe their personal experience, analyze and react to ideas in readings, and make arguments using evidence.

2025 College Prep Writing Syllabus

University of Minnesota Writing 1301 (CIS Writing)

Semester: Spring

This course will help you develop writing strategies for college-level courses. You will practice your writing frequently and get regular feedback from the instructor and classmates. You will have the opportunity to write both in class and outside of class; during class, we will emphasize active learning (discussing readings, writing during class, reading and responding to other students’ writing, and other activities designed to help you think critically about your writing). 

In addition to essays, your grade will reflect your engagement in the writing process and writing community.  Our goal is to learn together and support each other to bring our writing to the next level.

2025 CIS Writing Syllabus (for WRIT 1201--updated syllabus for 1301 coming soon!)