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English
  Chair: Mrs. Miriam Miller
Contact:
mmiller@sha-excelsior.org

203.288.2309x424

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The English Department strives to provide students with a strong foundation in critical reading, analysis and writing through required courses that address grammar, vocabulary, composition and literature. Elective courses offer an opportunity to study a particular aspect of English, whether writing-based or literature-driven. In all English classes, students regularly use technology for research, writing, and presentations. Four credits are required for graduation.

Introduction to Literary Genres and Basic Composition
214engI QP 4.33 GR 9 YEAR 1 CREDIT This course introduces students to the genres of fiction (through the short story and novel), non fiction, drama, and poetry. It exposes students to the language of literature and teaches them how to read each genre critically. The course also fosters the development of writing skills, incorporating both critical and creative assignment, and includes grammar and vocabulary components.

Honors Introduction to Literary Genres and Basic Composition
217engIH QP 4.67 GR 9 YEAR 1 CREDIT This course is offered to students who have qualified by their English scores on the entrance test. Like English I, this course introduces students to the genres of fiction (through the study of both the short story and the novel), nonfiction, drama, and poetry; exposes students to the language of literature; and teaches them how to read each genre critically—but it does so in greater depth. The course also fosters the development of writing skills, incorporating both critical and creative assignments, and includes grammar and vocabulary components. Individual assignments/projects complement the material covered in class.

American Literature
224eng II QP 4.33 GR 10 YEAR 1 CREDIT This course offers a survey of American literature from Colonial American to the present. In addition to developing grammar, vocabulary, and PSAT skills, students produce creative works consistent with the materials being studied and papers reflective of their maturing critical skills including an author-based research paper. Grammar, vocabulary, and PSAT skills are also addressed.

Honors American Literature
227eng IIH QP 4.67 GR 10 YEAR 1 CREDIT This course surveys American literature from Native American to the present. Students must produce an in-depth critical paper on an American author whom they have read and researched. In addition to developing grammar, vocabulary, and PSAT skills, students produce a series of critical essays as well as creative expressions. Prerequisite: minimum 3.67 average in Introduction to Literature and Basic Composition

British Literature
234engIII QP 4.33 GR 11 YEAR 1 CREDIT This course examines masterpieces of British literature, surveying works from the Anglo-Saxon period through the twentieth century. Writing, grammar, vocabulary and critical discussion skills are stressed. Independent reading assignments and critical essays are completed each quarter, culminating in the production of a 5-6 page research paper which conforms to MLA guidelines required for course credit.

Honors British Literature
237engIIIH QP 4.67 GR 11 YEAR 1 CREDIT This course examines in depth, masterpieces of British literature, surveying works from the Anglo-Saxon period through the twentieth century. Writing, grammar, vocabulary and critical discussion skills are stressed. Extensive reading and research are required as independent reading and critical essays are assigned regularly. To receive course credit, student must produce a 7-8 page well-written research paper. Prerequisite: Minimum 3.67 average in World Literature

The research paper during junior year is required in order to advance to senior year.

AP Comparative Literature (Advanced Placement)
29llitAP QP 5.0 GR 12 YEAR 1 CREDIT This course concentrates on comparative studies of famous pieces of literature which share theme, plot and/or other characteristics. Selections are chosen from different cultures, eras, and perspectives, and are discussed according to various schools of critical thought. The writing component includes genre studies, literary analyses and a 12-15-page research paper. Each student participates in panel presentations of selected major works. All students in this course take the Advanced Placement exam in May. Prerequisites: Minimum 4.0 average in British Literature. All Seniors (with the exception of those taking AP Comparative Literature) are required to take World Literature. Seniors taking AP Comparative Literature may not take World Literature.

World Literature
265wldlit QP 4.33 GR 12 SEM 1 .5 CREDIT A senior-level, one-semester course, World Literature surveys a selection of literary works, past and present, from around the world, stressing a thematic analysis of them. Students write a series of analytical essays based on textual reading and produce an 8-10 page research paper. The course continues the development of language arts skills and vocabulary study of the previous years.

Honors World Literature
267wldlitH QP 4.67 GR 12 SEM1 .5 CREDIT A senior-level, one semester course, World Literature surveys a selection of literary works, past and present, from around the world, stressing a thematic analysis of them. In addition to writing short critical papers, students are required to do considerable research, culminating in 10-12 page research paper. The course continues the development of language arts skills and vocabulary study of the previous years. . Prerequisites: 3.67 average in British Literature.

Perspectives in Fiction
2005-2006 246fic QP4.33 GR 11,12 SEM 2 .5 CREDIT This course focuses on a study of fictional works by classic and modern authors. Students explore the narrative method and symbolic interpretation of the human experience. In addition to sharing in classroom discussion and writing critical papers, students present in-depth research panels on noted authors and their works and complete independent reading and study of selected novels.

Mythology as Literature
245mythlit QP 4.33 GR 11, 12 SEM 2 .5 CREDIT Ancient Mythology forms the core around which much of Western art, literature, and music revolve. The topic of mythology will be approached by way of exploring universal themes and archetypes. By focusing on Classic Mythology, students will investigate the connections between myths of that time period, and those of contemporary cultures in a fascinating variety. Creative writing, formal writing, and critical panel discussion skills are stressed, in addition to root-based vocabulary development. Students write 3-4 page expository essays and create an origin myth.

Writing Seminar
286writsem QP 4.33 GR 11, 12 SEM 1,2 .5 CREDIT This course focuses on practicing and perfecting the elements of the writing craft. Designed for students who have experienced discomfort in writing, Writing Seminar aims at teaching these students to master overall coherence in essay writing. This course emphasizes editing skills, unity, and the writing of reasonably correct prose. Students spend a considerable amount of time perfecting these essential skills while perfecting the various forms of expository writing. By the end of this course, each student should be able to recognize and evaluate the various writing techniques of exemplary writers and be more confident about her own unique writing style.

Honors (Advanced) Composition
287compH QP 4.67 GR 11, 12 SEM 2 .5 CREDIT Designed for students with a firm foundation in writing, Honors Composition prepares students for college writing courses by introducing students to the complex literacy of reading, writing, thinking, and speaking. Students will be introduced to the specific requirements and rigorous standards of academic writing, including essay format, voice, and organizational strategies. Each student will take an active role in the reading and writing process, which regularly includes roundtable discussion, peer editing, and frequent revision. Students produce 8-10 essays during the semester and, at the end of the course, create a portfolio of their work. Prerequisites: 3.67 average in American Literature and/or British Literature, demonstrated ability in writing.

Women in Literature
266womlit QP 4.33 GR 12 SEM 1,2 .5 CREDIT Art Portfolio In this course, students examine the role of women in literature, both as authors and principal characters. Examining works from all different genres and time periods, students will engage in thematic/historical analysis and participate in critical discussions of selected works. Assignments include a research project concerning a female author, as well as several short essays.
 


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  Sacred Heart Academy
  265 Benham Street
  Hamden, CT 06514
  Phone: 203.288.2309   Fax:  203.230.9680
 
 

Last updated 09 June 2006