English Language Arts

The English curriculum is based on the communication skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening and presenting. Specifically, the curriculum provides instruction in the different modes of written and oral expression, analytical reading, vocabulary, grammar/usage and media study. All students must take English throughout their four years of high school. Courses are offered at three levels so that students may select courses that suit their needs, abilities and achievement. Reading during the summer months is an expected and important part of the English program. The summer reading list requires specific reading to prepare the student for course content and goals for the following school year.  The list is eclectic in its range of reading difficulty, interest level, and genre. The English Department teachers assign novels, short stories, plays, or secondary sources in June, and follow up with an assessment in their English classes in the subsequent school year.