Our curriculum is based first and foremost in writing—students learn to defend a position or communicate ideas using details and evidence. We also emphasize close reading as a skill and means of appreciating the world’s literature. Performing knowledge in demonstrations and presentations is also vital to students developing confidence and character. Finally, we understand that not all students learn alike, so we strive to recognize students as individuals to help them excel in college and in life.
English courses in 9th and 10th grades use a humanities approach. We select texts and design integrated projects in connection with our history program. Students learn various modes and purposes of writing, are exposed to a broad range of literature, and learn to evaluate and develop arguments with evidence.
In the 11th grade, students can choose to take a non-integrated English course with an honors option, or an honors-level, integrated (English and History) American Studies course. In all 11th grade courses, students study American literature to accompany their study of U.S. history, engage dynamically with texts, and write to discover the power of language and to communicate precisely.
12th grade students pursue emerging interests in English through trimester courses on topics ranging from Literature and Philosophy to Creative Writing. As in the eleventh grade year, students will have the option to take courses with honors designation.