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GRADE LEVEL: 9 |
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CODE: LAE371 |
COURSE LENGTH: 36 weeks |
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PREPARATION: Language Arts 8 |
Major Concepts/Content: The emphasis in the class is on going beyond the skills of recognition, fact gathering and recall to the use of higher-level thinking/processing skills that emphasize critical reading, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. In both form and subject, the literature selected for study will be challenging to the most able students. The class is distinguished by a difference in the quality of the work expected, not merely an increase in quantity. This course is a demanding study of the traditional literary genres which examines what one can learn from literature not only as a springboard for critical thinking but as a model for writing and for its inherent pleasure. Vocabulary development, language usage, and correct grammatical usage will be stressed. The development of discussion and presentation skills will focus on analysis, interpretation, and evaluation.
Major Instructional Activities: Students read and respond to a wide spectrum of challenging literary selections. Many of the learning activities will culminate in a shared product or products. For instance, an essay, a dialogue or symposium, a multimedia presentation, a debate, etc. Students will regularly write in single or multi-paragraph format, personal pieces and formal essays that analyze and evaluate the literature selections. The course will also provide for a maximum interchange of ideas among students, with an emphasis on such activities as panels, reaction groups, dialogues, and seminars.
Major Evaluative Techniques: Traditional evaluation tools will be employed in the course, to include tests, both objective and essay grading of written and oral work. In addition, however honors students should be frequently involved in peer assessment.
Essential Objectives: Upon completion of the Honors English 9 course, students should be able to:
§ Analyze and understand the various literary genres.
§ Analyze and assess the tone and style in literary selections.
§ Write formal compositions that analyze and evaluate pieces of literature.
§ Develop and employ vocabulary skills appropriate to the level of reading and writing encountered.
§ Create and share original examples of some of the literary genres explored.
§ Employ consistently the conventions of standard written English.
§ Make and critique formal and informal oral presentations.
§ Listen reflectively and critically.