English 4

World literature will be presented in a manner which guides the students to improve on the following: reading comprehension, literary analysis, vocabulary in context, literary terminology, writing in response to reading, critical thinking skills, and the enjoyment of literature. We will read poems, short stories, plays, and nonfiction. We will also watch dramatic literature in performance, particularly Shakespeare's plays about love and his epic drama HENRY V. We will also perform some works in class, in particular ANTIGONE by the French author Jean Anouihl.

Vocabulary enrichment combines current usage as well as preparation for the SAT, college, and adulthood.

The students will work to improve their composition skills, using a variety of methods. Frequent writing practice on a variety of topics is combined with an increased understanding of the structure of language and both the methods and mechanics of writing well.

Modern methods of library research (includng the internet) will lead to the development of an original, creative paper.

Presentation skills are an important part of adult communication which will be practiced regularly, briefly, often voluntarily, and in a relaxed atmosphere in class. Reading aloud, performing a part in plays, participating in class, and presenting projects and research orally to the class are therefore also part of the curriculum.

Creative Writing 1 & 2

This is an elective course for advanced juniors and seniors who enjoy writing and wish to learn more about writing well.

This is a writing class; you must write and complete assignments on time. If you show me good effort and improvement, you should get a B. Excellent effort and improvement in your work gets an A. Class attendance is important to success.

We use Strunk and White's book THE ELEMENTS OF STYLE as our text. We also use a monthly writing magazine in addition to other reading material.

Grades are based on a combination of daily classwork activities (both group and individual), homework assignments, quizzes, and writing projects (which count as test grades). You get what you earn!

You are responsible for making up all missed work promptly. If work is left unfinished, it receives a zero. If you choose not to complete an assignment to my satisfaction, you get a zero. Vulgar, profane, and obscene work will not be accepted. Too many zeros may mean failure for the quarter, semester, or year. Be prepared for class daily.