English05

ENGLISH

The main purpose of English instruction in all grades is to develop the literacy level of all students to the highest possible extent. To this end, reading, writing, and speaking are at the core of each program. Much attention is given to the practice of expository writing and other writing forms.

Each level of English is carefully designed to meet the needs and interests of students of varying abilities. Placement of each student will be determined by the recommendations of English teachers and guidance counselors.

The following guidelines will be used to determine student placement level within specific English courses:

Honors English
Students recommended for this level must demonstrate the following characteristics:
1. Read well above grade level.
2. Demonstrate initiative, creativity, and excellent study habits.
3. Continue to improve performance in English.
4. Write clear, concise prose.

College English
Students recommended for this level must satisfy most of the following requirements:
1. Have the ability to read at or above grade level.
2. Demonstrate good study habits and a serious approach toward academic work.
3. Continue to improve performance in English.
4. Have a reasonably good command of basic writing skills.

English
Students recommended for this section are those who are capable of dealing with some of the literature specified for honors and standard sections, but at a slower pace. These students would also benefit from a class where deficiencies in reading, writing, and vocabulary and organizational skills can be addressed. Please note that this level does not meet the standards for NCAA or four-year Massachusetts State colleges and universities.

English I
1 credit
Prerequisite: None
Grade 9
Honors and College English: Study of the types of imaginative literature�short story, novel, drama and poetry�begun in Grade 8 is continued at a more advanced level. Several full-length novels are read. Students are introduced to classical mythology through a unit on mythology and the Old Testament literature. Language study includes units in grammar, punctuation, sentence structure and usage. Language skills are reinforced by frequent written and oral work. Formal preparation for the MCAS exam is begun. Students are also required to participate in the Freshmen Speech Competition. Completion of additional summer reading is required for the Honors division and may be required for the College level.
English I: Literature study may include myths, folk tales, legends, and Old Testament stories. Students also read a wide selection of novels and short stories dealing with subject matter and themes of contemporary interest and appropriate to their reading levels. Much attention is given to a variety of student magazines for the selection of current fiction and non-fiction that will be meaningful to students. Language study focuses on continued efforts to help students develop their reading abilities, their vocabularies, and basic skills in writing and thinking. Frequent short writing assignments emphasize fundamentals and allow students the opportunity to extend creativity. Formal preparation for the MCAS exam is begun.

English II
1 credit
Prerequisite: English I credit
Grade 10
Honors and College English: The emphasis in Grade 10 is on American and British literature. Novels, plays, and poems are selected because of their importance as literature and their appropriateness for high school students. At least one Shakespearean play, selected from the four available, will be studied. Expository and critical writing will again be emphasized. Some attention will be given to preparing students for the PSAT's. Formal preparation for the MCAS exam is continued. Completion of additional summer reading will be required for the Honors division and may be required for the College level. Students in the Honors division will be introduced to the research paper. To continue in Honors Division English, a student must maintain an 85 average.
English II: This course involves the study of modern fiction, non-fiction and drama appropriate to students' interests and abilities. Some effort will also be made to use reading selections from the materials used in College English II. The emphasis in this course, however, is on individual improvement in reading ability, vocabulary development, and writing skills. Formal preparation for the MCAS exam will be continued.

English 9-10 (Parts A & B)
1/2 credit
Prerequisite: Failing course grade in either English I or II with recommendation of teacher
Grades 10-11
This semester course is designed to allow students to gain concepts and skills that they may not have successfully acquired in English I or II. The skills necessary for success on the English Language Arts MCAS will be the primary focus of the course in addition to the development of writing skills and the exploration of literary themes. Students may enroll for this course during one or both semesters, depending on previous grades in English I and II.

English III
1 credit
Prerequisite: English II credit
Grade 11
Honors and College English: The emphasis in Grade 11 is on American literature. Students read novels, plays, and poems selected because of their importance to the development of American literature and their appropriateness to the interest and ability levels of eleventh grade students. In addition to American literature, some of Shakespeare�s plays will be studied. Composition work will include creative, expository, and critical writing. To continue in the Honors Division English a student must maintain an 85 average. Students in the Standard level will be taught how to develop a research paper for the first time, while the Honors division will have their second experience with the research paper. Work in vocabulary development will continue. Completion of additional summer reading is required of all students in the Honors division and may be required for the College level. Some attention will be given to preparing students for the PSAT's.
English III: This course involves the study of American literature. Students will read fiction, non-fiction, and drama appropriate to students' interests and abilities. Some effort will be made to use reading selections from the materials used in College English III. The emphasis in this course, however, is on individual improvement in reading ability, vocabulary development, and writing skills. The literature selections in this course will, when possible, be aligned with the corresponding periods in American History.

English IV
1 credit
Prerequisite: English III credit
Grade 12
Advanced Placement: An Advanced Placement course is open to seniors selected on the basis of ability and interest in continuing English studies at the college level. The course includes the same units as the College English groups study, but much more in-depth reading, writing, and thinking are required. The course follows an outline established by the College Entrance Examination Board, and students must take the Advanced Placement English examination in May. A summer reading and writing program is also a requirement of the course. Assistance will be given in writing essay applications for college admissions. To enter the Advanced Placement a student must have maintained an 85 average in Junior Honors English III. NOTE: Advanced Placement students should take the SAT II subject tests in December (if required by the college to which you are applying.)
College English: Literature study at this level will include two Shakespearean plays, from the three available for study. Students will also study a series of units much like college elective courses in English. Writing assignments will continue to emphasize the creative, expository, and the critical paper; students will have their second experience with a research paper. Work in vocabulary development will continue. Assistance will be given in writing essay applications for college admissions. NOTE: College level students should take the SAT II subject tests in December (if required by the college to which you are applying).
English IV: Students will study a variety of literature and film selections. Writing assignments will include summarizing, note taking, reviewing films and plays, and a research paper. In addition, cover letters, resumes, and letters of inquiry and complaint will be included. Students will complete an oral presentation. Emphasis will be placed on real world application of reading, writing, and speaking. Assistance will be given in writing essay applications for college admissions.

Journalism
1/2 credit
Prerequisite: none
Grades 10-12
Writing workshop is a half-year course designed for students interested in writing and journalism. Such writing forms as the personal essay, the descriptive essay, the short story, monologues, dialogues, poetry, journalistic writing, such as editorials, sports and informational articles will be discussed and written. Students taking this course must be willing to share their work with the class. NOTE: Journalism does not count toward the four-year English requirement for graduation.

Film Literacy
1/2 credit
Prerequisite: Juniors must be 17 or have permission from instructor
Grades 11-12
Students will study film elements, techniques and history. Film and excerpts from films will be viewed both to illustrate points of instruction and to provide material for critical analysis. Students must participate in discussion, take written tests and write criticism. Each student will also submit a research paper that will be published for classmates to read. NOTE: Film Literacy does not count toward the four-year English requirement for graduation.

English Topics
1 credit
Prerequisite: Recommendation of special services teacher or guidance counselor only
Grades 11-12
This full year course focuses on the literacy and written communication skills that students will need for success in careers and adult living. Course materials will be selected to accommodate the needs of students with learning challenges. Expressive writing skills will be emphasized as will verbal communication and presentation skills.