Proper literary analysis requires a student to look at the pieces and parts of a given work, figure out how each piece and part functions, and understand the purpose of that function, ultimately connecting that purpose to the functionality and to the work as a whole. When students learn to effectively analyze language through the study of literature, they learn to think critically about the world around them. Writing and thinking are two intrinsically linked processes; one fosters and nurtures the development of the other.

Through learning to write effectively and expressing abstract ideas, students learn to organize their thoughts in a clear communicative manner. Students will learn how to manage unfamiliar texts and the pressure of producing an effective analytical essay, especially under timed conditions.

Along with preparing students to be successful on the AP exam, this class will also focus on making sure each student is prepared for the rigors of the college classroom; therefore, the students must also learn how to produce long term, research-based essays.

Elective replacing English 11: 5 credits

Prerequisite: 90 or above in English 10 or an 85 or above in Honors English 10

In English 9, students will explore and discuss literary works of several different genres as well as study grammar, vocabulary, and hone writing skills. Students will develop and practice critical thinking skills necessary to identify important themes, symbols, and literary techniques across genres. Students will also regularly practice writing skills through the process of planning, drafting, revising, and editing original pieces of writing. These practices encourage students to think critically about the world and how they can successfully engage with and respond to it as Christians.

Required: 5 credits

Prerequisite: None

Honors English 9 students will explore and discuss literary works of several different genres. Students are expected to complete assigned reading and actively engage in class discussion by posing questions and sharing observations about the material. This course also focuses on vocabulary acquisition, grammatical instruction, literary analysis, and the necessary processes for crafting sophisticated pieces of writing. While homework is assigned, most of the coursework will be completed in class. Students are expected to spend time at home reviewing the material that was covered in class and come prepared with questions, observations, and completed work as assigned. Merely completing the work during the day without attempting to internalize and apply it will lead to a minimal development of skills.

Elective replacing English 9: 5 credits

Prerequisite: 90 or above in prior English class and qualifying score on HSPT and WCHS Placement Test.

World Literature is a survey course in which students explore works of different genres, continents, and literary periods. Students will study common archetypes across cultures and apply literary critical theories while delving deeply into stories. This course also focuses on the necessary processes for crafting sophisticated pieces of writing. Students will be implored to think critically and will seek to answer a wide range of essential questions, including:

• Why do humans need to interact with stories?
• What connections can we find across cultures and historical periods?
• How does a Christian worldview align with or respond to this author’s work?
• How do different cultures shape the definitions of good and evil?
• In the face of adversity, what causes some individuals to prevail while others fail?
• When is it appropriate to challenge the beliefs or values of society?

Required: 5 credits

Prerequisite: English 9

This course will rely on major works of world literature in order to introduce, review, and explore literary and rhetorical elements. In conjunction with literary and rhetorical analysis, students will also be exposed to integrated grammar in order to sharpen their understanding of language function; this will primarily focus on syntactical construction. While students are considering the aforementioned in their studies, they will also be exploring how world texts relate to how they understand their own personal stories (and histories) and character, and the character of God. Literature is used to universally illustrate elements of the human experience; in doing so, it provides an ample springboard to explore the character of God.

Elective replacing English 10: 5 credits

Prerequisite: 90 or above in English 9 or an 85 or above in Honors English 9

In this course, students undertake an entire year of American Literature study. We study two major novels in American Literature as well as other important works. Students are expected to have an understanding of major movements such as Native American Literature, African American Literature, Modernism, Realism, Romanticism, Postmodernism and Existentialism. Students are strongly encouraged to think and respond to themes introduced by the class readings. We also have an intensive, ongoing vocabulary study that helps prepare students for the SAT.

Required: 5 credits

Prerequisite: English 10

This course will use themes from selected literature written after World War II as a focal point for developing the expository writing skills required of students in college classes.

Students will craft writing assignments examining different essay styles and discussing basic themes which helped shape post WWII culture. The literature chosen will provide students with a natural vehicle for discussing important issues of contemporary society in a Christian setting. Issues raised will include family values, friendships, homosexuality, immigration, mass incarceration, and racism. Literature will be chosen carefully and class discussions will focus on how Christians, in obedience to Scripture, should respond to the difficult issues of contemporary society.

Required: 5 credits

Prerequisite: Senior

This one-semester course is designed to offer the outlet for creative self-expression that literature lovers crave, but rarely have time to explore in core English classes.

Students will experience a wide range of poetry and prose, emulating masters of language while developing their unique voice in original pieces. The latter half of the course will delve into the art of argumentation, providing participants with the necessary skills to effectively voice their worldview and impact their communities. Formal debates on contemporary topics will incorporate research, passion, style, wit, and rhetoric into authentic discussions on student-selected issues.

This course will emphasize the power of publication, and students will be equipped to submit sophisticated pieces to various community forums.

Elective: 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: None

This is a course in which students are helped to speak effectively in a formal setting. The process of verbal communication will be analyzed in several speeches and evaluations. Students will practice their skills by building and delivering both informative and persuasive speeches for classroom observation. Speeches begin as 30 second readings and build to a final 15 minute presentation.

Required: 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: Junior – Senior

Journalism students are introduced to the historical importance of journalism in America. They study the basic principles of print and online journalism as they examine the role of printed news media in our society. They learn investigative skills, responsible reporting, and journalistic writing techniques as they read, respond to, and write their own news and feature articles.

Students conduct interviews, research, write, and design their own publications. Topics include: News Then and Now; Elements of signature journalistic writing pieces; Ethics and the Law; Interviewing and Research Skills; AP Style; Editing; and Proofreading.

Elective: 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: None