Mrs. Danielson
Room 5-205
A little about me: I earned my Bachelor of Arts in English from Colorado Christian University and my Master of Arts in Teaching from Concordia University in Portland. I’m currently pursuing my Special Education Specialist degree at the University of Florida. I hold certifications in English 6–12, ESOL, Reading, and Literacy Coaching—and this marks my sixteenth year here at VHS!
This year is going to be an adventure in literature and learning. Together, we’ll dive into powerful stories, tackle creative and interactive projects, and sharpen your writing skills. I’ve carefully chosen books that I believe will spark your imagination and deepen your love of reading. Most of all, I’m excited to learn and grow right alongside you—because the best part of teaching is the journey we take together.
AP Literature & Composition
The AP® English Literature and Composition course is designed and taught thematically with an emphasis on core readings along with modern and contemporary selections that illuminate and expand upon a variety of themes. AP English Literature and Composition closely follows the requirements described in the AP English Literature and Composition Course and Exam Description (CED), including the fundamentals of literary analysis and introductory college composition. Each week students discuss and engage in a variety of writing activities focusing on argumentation, interpretation, analysis, rhetorical strategies, exposition, structure, and style. Students read and study a variety of novels, plays, poems, and short stories from the 16th century to the present. In addition to district-approved novels, students read shorter works and drama from Literature: A Portable Anthology. The course focuses on the experience of literature, the interpretation of literature, the evaluation of literature, and writing to develop stylistic maturity and sophistication. Students practice their writing via numerous timed essays, which are revised several times, as well as longer essays that require outside research and MLA formatting. Students also practice oral communication skills through poetry presentations, regular classroom discussions, and acting as discussion facilitators.
Supply List:
One 1-inch binder with 5 dividers
Post-it notes (min. 2 packs)
Highlighters (various colors)
Field Trip on 9/5 to see Anna in the Tropics
at Orlando Shakes $40
All computer-based assignments will be turned in through Google Classroom.
Pre-AP English 2 builds on the foundation of the Pre-AP English 1 course, with an emphasis on the recursive moves that matter in preparing students for the challenges of college-level reading, writing, and discussion. While Pre-AP English 1 introduces the fundamental routines of close observation, critical analysis, and appreciation of the author’s craft, Pre-AP English 2 requires students to apply those same practices to a new host of nonfiction and literary texts. As readers, students develop a vigilant awareness of how the poet, playwright, novelist, and writer of nonfiction alike can masterfully manipulate language to serve their unique purposes. As writers, students compose more nuanced analytical essays without losing sight of the importance of well-crafted sentences and a sense of cohesion. Each unit of Pre-AP English 2 culminates in a writing task that reflects the rigor of similar tasks they will eventually encounter on standardized writing exams, in AP English courses, and in college classes.
Supply List:
Plastic three-prong folder with pockets
Compatible Headphones
Field trip on 12/2 to see A Christmas Carol
at Orlando Shakes $35
All computer-based assignments will be turned in through Google Classroom.
Office Hours:
I can be reached via email each day during my planning period (7th period). I am also available after school Mondays from 2:35 to 3:30 p.m. If you need to reach me outside these times, please email me, and I will do my best to accommodate your needs.
If you need to schedule a Google Meet with me for this time, please email me, and I will send you a Google Meet link.