Literature, reading and speaking are major components of this course. Students shall explore contemporary and relevant themes through short stories, poetry, drama and novels. Writing activities will be used to relate the literature to personal experiences. Students will perfect the paragraph form and write multi-paragraph essays. Writing will include informational and creative styles appropriate for varying audiences. Spelling, grammar, and vocabulary will be taught in conjunction with writing and literature. Students shall demonstrate the ability to construct and deliver speeches using English language conventions for a variety of purposes, situations, and audiences.
The focus of English 9 Pre-AP is to provide advanced work in literature and writing that requires analysis and criticism of canon and contemporary texts including short stories, poetry, plays, and novels with relevant themes. Grammar, vocabulary, and public speaking will also be a part of this course. Analytical responses to literature using writing, speaking and critical thinking will fine-tune skills and help students beyond ninth grade. Pre-AP courses are aimed at better preparing students for the rigors of AP–Advanced Placement, CE–Concurrent Enrollment, and College courses. For this reason, it is recommended that students have met or exceeded standards on the MCA Reading Test taken in seventh grade.
Please note: Students taking Pre-AP/AP classes who do not maintain a C- or above average at the end of each quarter will be moved into regular English for the remainder of the year. Movement between levels throughout the year will not be allowed due to differentiation in curriculum between levels.
This course will include the study of composition, literature, speech (listening, presenting, and discussing), grammar usage and mechanics. It will present to students the language arts skills needed to pursue other English courses. Students are encouraged to apply their language arts skills in 21st century contexts as they will have the ability to utilize technology on a frequent basis. The novels The Alchemist, Night, and Lord of the Flies are several of the major units covered.
English courses build awareness and understanding of our historical and contemporary societal context and engage students in thinking that empowers them to make informed decisions. Students with strong foundational skills can benefit from putting those skills to work in a more challenging and enriching way.
Pre-AP English students complete reading and writing assignments that foster critical thinking. While reading works of literary merit, variety, and complexity, Pre-AP English students spend time writing academically, analyzing purpose, analyzing literary/rhetorical techniques, and using in-depth discussion.
Pre-AP English students focus on four main areas:
Reading – closely and deeply
Writing – academically, coherently, and complexly
Grammar – how and why authors use it properly
Critical Thinking – finding meaning in literary art and discussing that meaning
Please note: Students taking Pre-AP/AP classes who do not maintain a C- or above average at the end of each quarter will be moved into regular English for the remainder of the year. Movement between levels throughout the year will not be allowed due to differentiation in curriculum between levels.
General English 11 allows students to expand their skills in the areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking through the study of various stories, poems, novels, and plays representing American Literature. Major writing assignments will focus on the skills of literary analysis and argumentation, with students typically writing on self-selected topics related to what we have studied. This includes a substantial argumentative research paper during the 3rd quarter. In addition, the class focuses on vocabulary, grammar, and practicing the application of traditional language arts skills to a 21st century context.
Are you ready to dive into the art of persuasion, analysis, and communication? In this rigorous yet engaging course, you will sharpen your writing, reading, and critical thinking skills through a wide array of texts and genres. From analyzing literary classics to dissecting current events and diverse perspectives, you'll learn how language shapes society, influences emotions, and drives action. With a focus on rhetorical choices, argumentation, and style, you will hone your analytical skills and discover the transformative power of language.
“We are surrounded by written language that is often used intentionally to achieve a purpose. In AP English Language and Composition, you’ll read nonfiction texts through the eyes of a writer, exploring the choices writers and speakers make to persuade their audience. By analyzing how writing is composed, you’ll be able to construct your own persuasive pieces” (College Board).
***In addition to weighted grades, this course offers students the opportunity to earn globally-accepted college credits before even setting foot on campus! Most colleges/universities grant anywhere from three to eight credits for successfully passing the AP Lang and Comp Exam. The prestigious AP program is recognized for its excellence in preparing students for a successful post-secondary experience, so come join the fun and explore the limitless possibilities of language!
Please note: Students taking Pre-AP/AP classes who do not maintain a C- or above average at the end of each quarter will be moved into regular English for the remainder of the year. Movement between levels throughout the year will not be allowed due to differentiation in curriculum between levels.
NCEE is a college-in-the-schools English program that allows motivated, general-level students to earn credit through Normandale Community College during 11th and 12th grade. During the two-year cohort, you will learn how to read and write for college by developing the reading, research, writing, and study strategies necessary for success. Writing classes apply critical reading, research, and thinking skills through a variety of research and analytical writing assignments. Literature classes focus on close study, discussion, and response to essays, fiction, poetry, novels and drama from a variety of time periods, cultures, and genres.
NCE English credits transfer to colleges and universities and satisfy requirements for College Writing, Diverse Populations, and Civic Understanding goal areas which most colleges require for graduation.
Space is limited for this class. If there is not space, students will be placed in English 11.
This class is only available to students who have taken NCE 11.
NCEE is a college-in-the-schools English program that allows motivated, general-level students to earn credit through Normandale Community College during 11th and 12th grade. During the two-year cohort, you will learn how to read and write for college by developing the reading, research, writing, and study strategies necessary for success. Writing classes apply critical reading, research, and thinking skills through a variety of research and analytical writing assignments. Literature classes focus on close study, discussion, and response to essays, fiction, poetry, novels and drama from a variety of time periods, cultures, and genres.
NCE English credits transfer to colleges and universities and satisfy requirements for College Writing, Diverse Populations, and Civic Understanding goal areas which most colleges require for graduation. Teacher recommendation is required.
Are you searching for an alternative to traditional English classes? Are you craving writing for the real world? English 12, a two quarter class, will provide students with the opportunity to develop their real-world writing skills, dive into compelling, modern reading, and hone professional speaking skills for life after high school. English 12 aims to provide additional support for students preparing for a variety of pathways including the workforce, two-year post-secondary programs, military, and many other technical fields. Specifically, students will work on developing resumes and cover letters that meet current industry standards, writing self-reflections to develop their opinions and stances, and critical analysis writing to share those perspectives with a larger audience. Additionally, because the real world requires collaboration, students will engage in various class discussions and group projects to develop their cooperation and teamwork skills. By participating in a wide variety of real world units, students will improve collaboration, comprehension, communication, and self-awareness skills.
Ready to polish and hone your writing skills? Interested in the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school? Designed for students interested in developing their writing, CE Writing gives you a taste of what it’s like to write in a rigorous environment—where planning, revision, and high standards matter. You’ll hone your analytical writing, master application of MLA citations, and polish your grammar, all while improving your ability to self-edit and give/receive feedback. Beyond writing, you’ll build valuable skills in communication, group work, and presentations that will make you stand out in college and beyond. Think you’re up for the challenge? If you're serious about improving your writing, this class is your first step toward success!
Want to stand out in both your personal and professional life? Interested in the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school? CE Communications gives you the tools to connect with anyone, anytime, in any setting! You’ll dive into the secrets of effective communication, learning how to read body language, listen effectively, handle conflicts with ease, and build stronger relationships. Plus, you’ll master the skill of addressing others by delivering powerful, persuasive presentations and sharpening your verbal and nonverbal delivery. Through hands-on exercises, peer feedback, and real-world examples, you’ll leave this course not just talking—but communicating with confidence and impact. Ready to speak up and get noticed? Join us!
AP Lit and Comp is a weighted college-level course designed around the study of engaging literature, poetry, and drama while improving critical writing and analysis skills. You’ll learn to read deliberately and thoroughly, taking time to understand a work's complexity, to absorb its richness of meaning, and to analyze how that meaning is established in literary form. Close study of engaging texts will deepen understanding of the ways writers use language to create meaning. You will learn to consider a work's structure, style, and themes as well as the impact of smaller-scale elements such as figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone.
***In addition to weighted grades, this course offers students the opportunity to earn globally-accepted college credits before students even set foot on campus! Most colleges/universities across the country grant anywhere from three to eight credits for successfully passing the AP Lit and Comp Exam in May. Here at PLHS, we consistently boast a student pass-rate of well over 90% for this course! The prestigious AP program is recognized for its excellence in preparing students for a successful post-secondary experience, so come join in the fun!
This class gives students a chance to laugh while they experience all aspects of theater - from beginning acting to improvisational theater. Students perform individually and in groups. Both improv activities and “scripted” activities are incorporated into the acting component of the class. Students also perform a murder mystery interactive theater production for the course final. Come join the theater to find out who-dun-it!
Students will learn the basics of the pre-production, production, and post-production process while filming and editing a variety of different types of videos. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to plan productions; use cameras to create a variety of shots and effects; use editing software to construct and complete edited videos; and participate as on-screen talent in film projects. Students will complete video projects both individually and in groups and must have strong independent work habits and technical problem-solving skills for successful completion of this course.
Popular Books is PLHS’s own version of Book Tok - a highly individualized reading course that allows students to choose engaging books which are generating excitement among readers. This course provides instruction to better understand the role of specific fictional elements in a book as well as the unique and exciting plot characteristics of modern literature. Our primary course objective is to offer students the opportunity to select and explore popular literature and guide them through interpretation of meaning and appreciation of style. This quarter-long class will help students become willing, independent readers and whet their appetites for even more new and engaging literature!
If public speaking makes you nervous, and you would rather set your hair on fire than present in front of others, THIS is the class for you! This fun-filled course will give students the opportunity to gain confidence, fluency, and skill in the preparation and presentation of personalized and entertaining speeches. Students will develop an understanding of both basic communication principles and public speaking strategies through a variety of speaking assignments and delivery styles in an engaging, supportive, and low-stress environment. The quarter-long course stresses both verbal and nonverbal communication skills, research-based speech development, interpersonal communication skills, and active listening. You will leave this class eager for the next speech opportunity!
Journalistic writing is non-fiction writing meant for publication in newspapers, magazines, or online. Throughout the quarter, students will learn the fundamentals of reporting, interviewing, writing, and editing to produce news stories, feature stories, sports/activity stories, editorials, and reviews.
The ultimate goal of this class is that students will write articles for Prior Lake High School’s student-created digital newspaper called The Wave. This course will give you the tools you need to create and publish engaging content that reflects the heart of our school community. Whether you’re reporting on campus events, school sports, or the latest trends, you’ll learn to write stories that engage and inform our readers.
Step into the world of Media Studies and unlock the power behind the screens, the news, and the entertainment we consume every day. This course is your key to understanding how media shapes our world, influences opinions, and drives cultural trends. From social media and blockbuster films to news outlets and TV shows, we’ll explore how mass communication works in the 21st century.
Throughout the quarter, we’ll explore First Amendment issues in the media, media ethics, media literacy, media ownership, propaganda, advertising, and media-related current events. By the end of the course, you’ll not only understand the impact of mass media but also become a savvy media consumer, ready to tackle our media-saturated world with confidence.
The humanities are creative expressions - literature, drama, art, music and film. This course focuses on two themes: people create to find their purpose and identity, and people create to establish their values. These themes will be introduced through a variety of literature, films, music, and art. This course will focus on students' own “Search for Identity” at the beginning of the quarter, and conclude with an introduction to a variety of themes and short units on different creative works, including current trends. The students will further develop an awareness and enjoyment of the humanities by attending a play or concert, visiting museums virtually or in-person, viewing film, and listening to music.
CPG provides students with an in-depth opportunity to explore grammar and vocabulary. Students will gain skills to help them communicate more effectively and understand how grammar relates to their lives and to their writing. Students will study grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary by analyzing sentence structures, identifying commonly confused words, and understanding grammatical rules. Students will show proficiency through presentations, group work, quizzes, and tests. The skills students gain in CPG will aid them in finding success on standardized tests (ACT, SAT, etc.) and success in a post-secondary classroom.
This course provides students with creative writing experiences in different forms of expression. Students will write narratives, short stories, drama, poetry and other types of communication. Students will This course provides writers with the keys to unlock the expressive storyteller within. From imaginative character building, to reflective meditations on their past, writers will work to hone their craft with writing exercises and thematic exploration. Writers will leave this class with more tools in their belt to tell effective stories. Writers will look at techniques from the pros, and learn to love the joys of the writing process. Writers will compose narratives, short stories, movie manuscripts, and poetry. Writers will practice various writing techniques, forms and styles of creative expression and close the quarter by bringing their words to life in the form of a movie or movie trailer! various writing techniques, forms and styles of creative expression.
This course will continue building on creative writing skills established in Creative Writing I. Writers will further develop characters and story lines while exploring different writing strategies and techniques. They will compose short fiction in various genres and poetry in various forms. Writers will show off their creative storytelling techniques with a movie production showcasing their writing.