Components of the third year of High School English include Independent Reading, Reading Workshop, Writing Workshop, Speaking and Listening, and Research. Growth in reading and writing is the focus of the 11th grade year. Specifically, the English 11 course includes the identification and analysis of literary voice in terms of historical context within literature. Units of study may include, but are not limited to, the exploration, interpretation, and analysis of the novel The Great Gatsby, the voice of the Harlem Renaissance, as well as contemporary and classic dramas. Students will not only analyze the writing of various authors, but they will develop and critique their own voice through extensive writing assignments. Vocabulary and grammar skills are a daily element of the course as well as key research strategies and integration of relevant research. Speaking and Listening, which is also an integral point in any classroom, is emphasized through formal and informal communication opportunities. These skills are facilitated by means of prepared formal speeches, informal conversation, and student-centered discussions. Finally, information-literate students access, evaluate, and use information efficiently and effectively. Projects that explore comparative literature are encouraged, as well as projects that facilitate inquiry into real world problems.

The goal of English 11 Honors is to further develop the skills and concepts introduced in English 10 Honors. Since the English 11 Honors course is demanding and intensive, it is intended for students who desire to take advanced level English classes in the future, or for students who exhibit a special interest or proficiency in English. It is encouraged that students registering for this course have maintained at least a B average in English 10H (or an A average in English 10). The course is designed to prepare students to effectively and efficiently analyze literature at an advanced level while strengthening analytical research and writing skills. Students can expect a rigorous reading requirement of both fiction and nonfiction and they will be expected to demonstrate strong literacy and analytical skills at an independent level both through written and verbal communication. In preparation for advanced courses, the class includes substantial student led discussions focusing on analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of works. Additional components of English 11 Honors include Independent Reading, Vocabulary and Grammar, Reading Workshop, Writing Workshop, Speaking and Listening, and Research. Please note that summer reading assignments are required upon entrance to the course, and will be used to gauge the level and needs of incoming students.

The English 12 course is designed according to Common Core State Standards with a focus on media literacy. Students will examine the strategies used to communicate ideas in various media as well as how an audience or reader interprets those ideas. Specifically, students will explore a government’s efforts to manipulate its citizens in George Orwell’s 1984. Students will also analyze contemporary media for use of bias and rhetoric and be able to utilize these devices in their own work. The course includes a comparative analysis of classic literature through text and film interpretations as well as a term paper in which students evaluate a selected social issue as it is presented in various media.

AP® English Language and Composition, an academically focused and intensely demanding course, is recommended to any motivated student planning to continue education after high school who is willing to accept the challenge of a rigorous, college-level English curriculum. It is encouraged that students registering for this course have maintained at least a B average in English 10H (or an A average in English 10). AP students will be required to complete summer work, due in August, regardless of student's schedule. Throughout the semester, AP students will closely read and analyze a variety of literary works, predominantly nonfiction, in order to strengthen their own writing skills, their awareness of rhetoric and the effective crafting of language. Students will be expected to apply their knowledge and skills gained from the study of prose to their own writings. The anticipated result is to enable students to write effectively and confidently in their college courses across the curriculum and in their professional and personal lives.

The Advanced Placement course provides a prospect for seniors to pursue and receive credit for college-level work completed at the secondary level. This course is designed to meet the curricular requirements described in the AP® English Course Description. Motivated, prospective AP students will participate in a rigorous college-level course. Students will have multiple opportunities for demanding reading, intensive writing and analysis at a beginning college level. Application of these skills will be demonstrated in student writing and frequent sessions of literary discourse. Students must submit all summer reading assignments on the first day of school in August) regardless of the student's schedule. Although there is no prerequisite for this course, it is strongly recommended that students have successfully completed AP® English Language and Composition, English 11 Honors (with at least a 'B' average), or English 10 Honors (with at least an 'A' average).

Do you enjoy writing? Students will explore a wide variety of writing from poetry to prose to essays. We will study professional pieces to help expand and develop our styles and techniques. Students will have the opportunity to develop independent works as well as participate in activities that develop creativity and writing skills.

In Journalism, students learn to write news, features, editorials, and sports stories and to edit, revise, and proofread. This hands-on course gives students an opportunity to put skills into practice by publishing for district and outside publications. The course also explores the history and role of media in society, the power and responsibility of the press, and careers in the field.

Upon successful completion of Journalism I and recommendation of the teacher, students may take a second year of Journalism. Emphasis will be placed on refining interviewing, writing, editing, layout, photo-journalism skills. The course further investigates the role of and careers within the broad fields of communications. Journalism II students are expected to write for outside publications. Prerequisite: Successful completion (B-average or higher) of Journalism I.

Upon successful completion of Journalism II and teacher recommendation, students interested in pursuing a career in Communications, Education, English, Journalism, or Professional Writing may wish to enroll in a third year of Journalism. Students focus on self-editing skills and mentor Journalism I students. Journalism III students will study current global issues in the media, autonomously complete intensive writing projects, write for outside publications, and explore appropriate writing-oriented careers. Recommendation: Successful completion (B-average or higher) of Journalism II.

This course will deal with learning elements of yearbook production including theme development & continuity, layout and design, writing and proofing, and basic photography. In addition, students will learn to recognize and participate in the business aspects of yearbook production such as meeting deadlines, selling advertising and patrons, increasing yearbook sales, et al. The outcome of this course will be to develop, assemble, and publish The Vallian for the current school year.

Upon successful completion of Yearbook I, students will take Yearbook II. In addition to what students have learned in Yearbook I, emphasis will be placed on refining layout and design and writing skills as well as taking a more involved role with yearbook organization through taking charge of a specific section.

This SAT® Prep course is designed to prepare students for the Reading and Writing sections. The Reading section will focus on critical thinking, sentence completion and verbal skills. The Writing section will focus on effective writing strategies which will assist students in the essay writing process. Also the Writing section will include grammar corrections in sentences and paragraphs. Students will have opportunities to take practice exams and gain valuable test-taking strategies.