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Academics
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LANGUAGE ARTS
English I (1 credit): English I (1 credit): In English I, all the various
types of literature in the anthology follow the theme of self-understanding, which is
repeated in the complete works read by the entire class. In language study, concentration
on linguistics and traditional grammar are supplemented by the application vocabulary. In
composition, the student learns the fundamentals of the research paper.
Humanities 1 (1 credit): This course is a required academic elective for
honors freshmen. It is designed to be a cross-disciplinary approach to history, literature,
theology, law, and the arts; with a focus on the development of western civilization.
Students should be able to fluently read and comprehend a vast selection of the ancient
books that provided the foundation for Western Civilization. They should be prepared to
think deeply about the literature, write persuasively, and communicate clearly on the
assigned themes.
English II (1 credit): English II continues to emphasize grammar, usage,
punctuation and spelling through oral and written exercises. However, major emphasis on
these mechanical skills begins to shift from drill to applied composition. English II
students write personal, descriptive, and persuasive essays throughout the year to develop
their thinking skills and to refine mechanical skills learned in lower grades. The literature
portion of English II uses an anthology and novels to explore the concept of man's and woman's
relationship to themselves, others, and their environment. With this literature, the student
also furthers his/her composition skills through the writing of literary reviews, which employ
very rudimentary footnoting and bibliography skills.
English III (1 credit): Supplementing the anthology of English I and II,
individual works by American authors are read in English III. An anthology of American
authors is used, along with separate volumes of novels and dramas. Linguistics and traditional
grammar are taught largely through composition, which includes critical analysis and research
papers. Major emphasis is placed on vocabulary and critical reading, both on the college
preparatory level.
English IV (1 credit): English IV, the last course, examines the themes of
major literary and theatrical works by English and European authors. Expositive and creative
compositions with emphasis on applied spelling, vocabulary, and mechanics are pursued as
college preparatory studies. Further, each semester includes a major writing project on an
assigned topic. This project is designed to imitate a college freshman composition requiring
independent research, footnoting, bibliography, logical thought, and valid conclusions.
English As A Second Language I (ESL 1,2,3) (1 credit): English As A Second Language
Level I is taught for three periods a day and is designed for students with little or no knowledge
of English. Basic elements of language learning (vocabulary, grammar, reading, idioms, writing,
and conversation skills) are intensively taught in order to enable students to function
satisfactorily in mainstream classes the following year.
English As A Second Language II (ESL II) (1 credit): Level II is available, one
period a day, for students who possess a language proficiency sufficient for them to succeed
in all mainstream classes, but who need the support that an advanced ESL class can provide.
Emphasis is placed on increasing vocabulary knowledge, improving writing skills, and preparing
for the TOEFL Examination.
Communication Applications (Speech) (1/2 credit): Subject matter covered and
activities performed will be centered around these areas: communication theory, informative
speaking, persuasive speaking, poetry and prose reading, speeches for special occasions, and
an introduction to drama. Students will be evaluated on both written and oral expression.
Reading (1/2 credit to 1 credit): Students who score low on Language Arts grades
will be tested for reading skill and comprehension, using the Gates-Mcginite pretest. If
warranted, the student will be assigned to an appropriate level reading course. Those students
demonstrating the greatest need will be assigned to the Academy of Reading, a state-of-the-art,
interactive technology, which begins at phonemic awareness, then builds toward fluency and
comprehension.
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