An Argument for 113A

The second I saw the available courses for freshman-year English, I immediately knew I wanted to take 113A. After announcing my decision to the rest of my friends, I was peppered with questions for the rest of the day. Why take it if it's going to be so much more work? Why not just take 113? Why does English class even matter, especially during freshman year? People told me not to take 113A. They told me it would be hard, strenuous, and overall, not worth the workload. I would beg to differ. I argue that 113A is among one of the most important courses available at Greenwich High School. 

So, what makes 113A so different from 113? Mainly it’s that students taking 113A read more books and conduct more detailed and thorough investigations. It’s implied that 113A students have harder classwork and more homework, as well as higher standards to meet. Other than that, they are pretty much the same–on the surface, at least.

During my time in 113A, I developed crucial and important critical thinking, analysis, and writing skills I had no idea I lacked. My teacher created the course, and had taught it since its inaugural year, meaning she was extra hard on us. She gave us pop quizzes worth a considerable percentage of our grade, and forced us to consider different perspectives, opinions, and factors when reading literature. She taught us what makes a good piece of writing, how to write a convincing thesis, and why the use of literary elements (figurative language, line breaks, etc.) matter in a piece just as much as the topic itself. 

Without her, I wouldn’t be at the level of writing that I am now. 113A is an excellent way to grow and improve through repetition and analysis, forcing oneself to take on a heavier workload to reap the benefits. 

However, I did find myself getting increasingly jealous of some of my 113 friends. Their independent reading notes were never checked, they never had long projects that occupied semesters, and they frequently steered clear of any homework. They were living the life that at the time, I desired. I yearned for a life where my English grade didn’t haunt me like my shadow. 

Although 113A in its current form will not be offered going forwards, it is still an important course that still serves to aid students in developing the lesser thought-of skills.

It’s been a year–I’ve reflected, thought back upon my controversial 113A decision, and I’ve finally come to a conclusion. It’s worth it, if you’re willing to put the work in. If you sign up for the class and are hoping to coast through, you’re in for a rude awakening. If you care about English, and want to enrich yourself in valuable classes that will make you a better student, then 113A will benefit you in the long run.