In our English program our students will be able to:

• Communicate orally and in written discourse;
• Possess highly developed linguistic sophistication of English;
• Read and analyze a variety of informational materials and nonfiction materials, including journals, essays, speeches, biographies, and autobiographies;
• Plan, present, and critique dramatic readings of literary selections;
• Make planned oral presentations and use relevant details to support main ideas;
• Make impromptu responses to questions about presentations;
• Develop narrative, expository, literary and academic writings to inform, explain, analyze, persuade and /or entertain;
• Edit writing for correct grammar, capitalization, punctuation, spelling, sentence structure, and paragraphing;
• Credit the sources of both quoted and paraphrased ideas;
• Demonstrate effective listening strategies in a variety of situations;
• Understand connotations, inferences, and implications as well as direct comments and/or instructions;
• Use print, electronic databases, and online resources to access information

Programs

PREP

The Prep program is a one-year intense program to prepare students for high school. The focus is on helping students attain the level of English language ability necessary to study in the high school. The 22 hour program includes four core courses: Reading, Language, Writing, and Speaking/Listening.  There is also a strong focus on library assistance where students increase their research skills, develop an understanding of plagiarism, and the encouragement of web literacy.

Prep and grade 9 students will also follow the Achieve 3000 online reading program, which allows students to develop their reading skills by starting with appropriate reading materials for their level and moving on to more advanced texts; teachers monitor their online progress.

Grade 9

In grade 9 students have seven periods of English per week and two English elective classes.  English lessons assist in the development of the English language by presenting opportunities for thinking, listening, speaking, reading, and writing.  The course focuses on the students planning, presenting, and critiquing dramatic readings of literary sections.  Coursework includes the students reading and analyzing a variety of literature.  Students continue developing narrative, expository, and informational writings to inform explain, analyze, or entertain.

Electives: Creative Writing, Drama, and Public Speaking

Activities

We are pleased to offer various mixtures of activities between teachers and students that motivate participants to develop new skills, determine and cultivate individual interests and talents, and share different perspectives while encouraging new social systems and relationships.