English
Four credits of English are required of all students to fulfill graduation requirements (English 9, 10, 11, and 12). Our English courses focus on writing, proofreading, vocabulary, literature, and thinking skills. (Reading lists are available for each course). The English Department also offers several electives to further develop skills in writing, grammar/proofreading, poetry, speaking, journalism, and/or literary analysis.
English 9 (Honors) 2202
1 Credit Grade 9
This is a challenging course designed for the student with a demonstrated interest and ability in language arts. Emphasis is placed on reading and writing skills, critical thinking skills, test taking skills, and building vocabulary at an accelerated pace. Students are expected to read and write independently. Students demonstrate the acquisition of these skills through oral presentations, in-class tests, writing and revisions, and projects. Students also refine grammar/proofreading skills.
English 9 (College & Career Preparation) 2201 (CCP NH Scholars eligible)
English 9 (Foundational Preparation) 2200
1 Credit Grade 9
Emphasis is placed on reading and writing skills, critical thinking skills, test taking skills, and building vocabulary. Students are expected to read and write independently. Students demonstrate the acquisition of these skills through oral presentations, in-class tests, writing and revisions, and projects. Students also refine grammar/proofreading skills.
1 Credit Grade 10
This is a challenging course designed for the student with a demonstrated interest and ability in language arts. Literary selections provide a challenge to the student’s reading and thinking ability, and writing will be assigned at an accelerated pace. The student should expect the exploration of literary themes, imagery, symbolism, grammar/proofreading, and advanced vocabulary. Students will write a research paper.
English 10 (Foundational Preparation) 2203
1 Credit Grade 10
Emphasis is placed on reading, speaking, and writing skills, as well as grammar/proofreading, and vocabulary. Students will demonstrate the acquisition of these skills through written and oral assignments as well as in-class projects. The writing focus is on developing thesis statements and multi-paragraph papers, stressing the proper and effective use of language for written communication. Students will complete a research paper.
English 11 (Honors) 2208
1 Credit Grade 11
This is a course designed for the student with a demonstrated interest and ability in the subject. Literary selections will provide a challenge to the student’s reading and thinking ability and writing will be assigned at an accelerated pace. The student should expect and enjoy a sophisticated analysis of great works in American literature. Persuasive techniques are presented in preparation for the Kaley Speaking Competition. Grammar and proofreading are emphasized.
English 11 (Foundational Support) 2206
1 Credit Grade 11
Emphasis is placed on writing, vocabulary, and speech in preparation for college. The development of a strong thesis statement and a multi-paragraph paper culminates in the writing of the research paper. Discussion and writing of assignments are driven by a study of American literature. Persuasive techniques are presented in preparation for the annual Kaley Speaking Competition. Grammar/proofreading are emphasized.
AP English Language & Composition (Honors /AP) 2209
1.5 Credit Grade 11
In preparation for the AP English Language and Composition exam, students read complex, rich prose in a variety of rhetorical contexts across a wide variety of disciplines and historical periods. They do this in order to develop their understanding of writing modes and strategies, genre conventions, audience expectations and writer’s purposes. From these experiences, students learn the connection between writing and interpretive skills in reading as they synthesize material into their own writing. Students write often as they move beyond formulaic responses such as the five-paragraph essay to develop their own rich, complex prose. Imitation exercises, journal keeping, collaborative writing, in–class response as well as formal essays provide the practice through which students become confident, effective writers in college and career. The majority of texts used in this course will come from American literature.
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation required
AP English Literature and Composition (Honors/AP) * 2210
1.5 Credit Grade 12
In preparation for the AP English Literature and Composition exam, students engage in an intensive study of representative works of literary merit from various genres and periods by reading, annotating, and analyzing increasingly complex literature. They develop individual competency in literary analysis by writing frequently to understand, to explain, and to evaluate the selections. Compositions employ academic vocabulary, a variety of sentence structures, textual support, and effective style; in addition, presentations, projects and other assessments foster mastery of the material.
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation required
ENGLISH 12
English 12 Courses - To fulfill the 12th grade English requirement, students not taking AP English Literature and Composition must take two (2) .5 credit quarter courses in back-to-back quarters (e.g. Q1/Q2 or Q3/Q4) equaling one credit of English. Each course option is based on a specific literary genre. Reading, discussion, and written analysis will be part of every course, as well as the study of vocabulary related to course texts and the course genre. 12th grade quarter courses will be unweighted with a weighted Honors Contract option available.
E12 Drama as Literature 2227
.5 Credit Grade 12
In this course we will explore Drama (plays) through the lens of literature. This course invites students to embark on a journey through significant dramatic works, emphasizing the study of theatrical literature as a means of understanding and expressing the human experience in different historical and cultural contexts. This is not an acting or theater class. Texts may include plays such as: Angels in America, The Glass Menagerie, Twelfth Night, A Doll’s HouseE12 Fantasy 2211
.5 Credit Grade 12
In this course, we will explore the world of fantasy literature through a variety of literary works and subgenres of fantasy literature. We will examine fantasy’s relationship to contemporary culture as well as motifs, archetypes, themes, and key figures/authors of this genre.
E12 Gothic Literature 2213
.5 Credit Grade 12
In this course, we will explore the world of gothic literature through a variety of literary works and subgenres. We will examine gothic literature’s relationship to contemporary culture as well as motifs, archetypes, themes, and key figures/authors of this genre. Texts may include: Frankenstein, Dracula, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. HydeE12 Literature & Film 2215
.5 Credit Grade 12
This course examines the original texts and choices made by writers and directors in the adaptation process. Students gain the skills necessary to critically read and analyze texts and films.E12 Memoir/Biography 2217
.5 Credit Grade 12
In this course, we will read a variety of literature, including memoirs and biographies, written by different authors. Course texts may address topics such as identity, family, relationships, career, or personal growth. We will also examine how memoirs and biographies shape the ways we experience the world around us and reveal what we value.
E12 Mystery/Crime 2219
.5 Credit Grade 12
In this course, we will explore the world of mystery and crime fiction through a variety of literary works. We will examine the history and development of the detective as an archetypal hero in both traditions. Throughout the course, you will learn how to identify the elements of a mystery, including the typical characters, the common plot structure, and the vocabulary that you will likely encounter in mystery writing. Texts may include: And Then There Were None
E12 Mythology 1: Greek 2221
E12 Mythology 2: Norse 2223
.5 Credit Grade 12
With Edith Hamilton's Greek Mythology as the primary text, students will read Greek, Roman, and Norse myths (depending on the course, Myth 1 or 2), making connections among these ancient cultures and our own. Moreover, students will research common myths not included in Hamilton's text, exploring a number of Native American myths, Egyptian myths, and myths from cultures that reflect their own personal interests. Students will seek origins, patterns, and similarities among the myths of all of the various cultures explored within the context of the course. Students will analyze myths through class discussions, projects, and written assignments. Throughout the course students will examine how myths are a part of our cultural literacy through art, literature, and various forms of media.E12 Native American Literature 2225
.5 Credit Grade 12
In this course, we will explore Native American literature through a variety of literary works. We will examine Native American literature’s relationship to contemporary culture as well as motifs, archetypes, themes, and key figures/authors of this genre. Texts may include: A Yellow Raft in Blue Water, Firekeeper’s Daughter, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, various short stories and poetry.E12 Science Fiction 2229
.5 Credit Grade 12
In this course, we will explore the world of science fiction literature through a variety of literary works and subgenres. We will examine science fiction’s relationship to contemporary culture well as motifs, archetypes, themes, and key figures/authors of this genre. Texts may include: Ender’s GameE12 Sports Literature 2231
.5 Credit Grade 12
This course is designed to explore the various themes that arise in both fiction and non-fiction writing about American sports and American sports figures. We will read a variety of literature, including fiction and non-fiction, written about sports in America. The course will cover various topics and themes related to sports such as heroism, pride, identity, cheating, scandal, and disappointment. We will also examine how sports shape the ways we experience the world around us and reveal what American culture values.
E12 The Meaning of Life and Death in Literature 2233
.5 Credit Grade 12
This course explores the breadth of the human experience by reading and analyzing literature that explores themes of life and death. We will explore these themes through a variety of literary works including novels, memoirs, short stories, and poetry. Texts may include: Tuesdays with Morrie, The AlchemistE12 Traditional British Literature 2235
.5 Credit Grade 12
In this course, students engage in a study of representative works of literary merit from various genres and periods, especially works that help demonstrate the evolution of the English language. Texts may include: Beowulf, The Canterbury Tales, HamletE12 Weird Fiction (Horror, Magical Realism, overall strange literature) 2237
.5 Credit Grade 12
Weird Fiction is a genre of literature that includes primarily short stories by authors whose aim is to present works that are spooky, surreal, supernatural, uncanny, disturbing, or even terrifying. Many of the selections that are on the syllabus are classic ghost stories. Some masters of this genre are M. R. James, Elizabeth Gaskill, Sheridan LeFanu, Algernon Blackwood, Clark Ashton Smith, H. P.. Lovecraft, and Shirley Jackson.. This genre is tied to the gothic genre and can have elements of science fiction and fantasy as well.
E12 Women's Literature 2239
.5 Credit Grade 12
This course is designed to explore the literary contributions of women writers from diverse time periods, genres, and authors. The course will examine how women’s experiences have shaped their literary contributions, the cultural forces affecting their lives, and how they have used writing to shape their cultures. The course will also explore the impact of historical, social, and cultural events, including social and political activism, affecting women of different races, ethnicities, and cultures, including understandings of gender.
E12 Young Adult Literature 2241
.5 Credit Grade 12
This course will be a review of contemporary Young Adult literature with units focusing on particular genres and/or themes. Studies will focus on analyzing the elements of a particular genre or theme and how authors work within or bend the rules of the genre to tell their stories, and how themes work to give us a better understanding of the world around us.
ENGLISH ELECTIVES
Electives may be taken in addition to courses required for graduation.
They may not be substituted for regular English courses.
Creative Writing 0164
1 Credit Grades 10-12
Students stretch their imaginations as they learn techniques for a variety of genres. In an interactive class, based on a writers’ workshop model, students write poetry, prose, comics, podcasts, drama and self-designed multi-genre works. Class includes direct instruction, reading and reviewing models, practice imitating mentor texts, keeping a journal and more. Students produce a portfolio as they create original work on significant themes and topics. They have opportunities to combine writing with media skills such as video and graphics. Class time includes technique building exercises, work on projects and sharing. Material prepares students for post-secondary programs or careers that require creative writing..
Modern Literature (CCP) 0190
1 Credit Grades 11-12
Modern Literature focuses on the post World War II era. We will explore such topics as escapism, the use and abuse of power, and differing voices on war. Students will consider works and viewpoints of often overlooked minority and women authors. Texts may include the following: 1984, Slaughterhouse 5, Catch-22, The Color Purple, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, A Yellow Raft in Blue Water, and Things Fall Apart.
Qualifies for NH Scholars 
Awards College Credit