English

English I
This one-year course for 9th grade students emphasizes the application of the readin and writing
process to a wide variety of learning situations. This course provides insturction in basic literacy processes
by focusing on strategic learning behaviors. Basic grammar skills will be taught. Skill development and a
postitive attitude toward reading, writing, and studying will be targeted. Activities center on empowering
non-proficient students to become independent learners who select and utilize strategies and resources
appropriate to the learning situation. This course will fulfill one of the English credits required for graduation.
Engligh I Reading and Writing may be offered as a block class with the course, Reading Fundamentals.

English II
This course is a continuation of English I with the primary focus on grammar and composition. It is
designed to strengthen communication skills through review and reinforcement of the concepts of
grammar and composition as applied to expository writing. Appropriate usage and diction will be developed
for further refinement of speech and writing. Grammar and diction will be evaluated in oral discussion
and presentations. Reading selections representing various genres will be used for the improvement of
reading rate and comprehension, as well as for models to foster the continued development of writing skills.

English II Honors
This one-year course is a continuation of English I Honors emphasizing the study of language, literature,
and composition. The skills of critical thinking, listening, reading, writing, and speaking will continue to be
developed. A variety of literary genres will be used for the further development of reading strategies,
literary appreciation, and interpretation. Literature selections will also serve as models to improve writing
skills. This course will fulfill one of the English credits required for graduation.

English III

This one-year course is a continuation of English II with an emphasis on writing skills.  A variety of short
stories, drama, poetry and novels will be studied as a basis for composition.  Writing will reflect an expansion
of critical thinking, listening, reading and vocabulary enrichment. The multi-paragraph essay will be the
predominant form of writing.

English IV
This one-year course is a continuation of English III and will emphasize further development of
writing skills.  Compositions will be assessed using rubrics and standards of the Nevada Proficiency Exam
in Writing.  Skills in critical thinking, reading, listening, and speaking will continue to be emphasized. 
Various literacy genres will be studied and used as a basis for composition.  This course will fulfill one
of the English credits required for graduation.

American Literature
American Literature is the chronological study of works by American authors from the earliest writings to
the present day. In addition to the study of literature, emphasis is placed on vocabulary enrichment,
understanding of literary terms, and composition. Video streaming of well-known American novels are shown intermittently when appropriate. This course will fulfill either the third or fourth English credit required for

graduation.

American Literature Honors
American Literature Honors is the chronological study of works by American authors from the beginnings
to the present. It traces the historical and cultural development of the United States as reflected in literature.
Emphasis will be placed on developing critical judgment. This course is designed for the college-bound
student who demands a more rigorous study of composition and literary analysis. Literature and composition
will be taught concurrently. This course will fulfill either the third or fourth English credit or the one
Arts/Humanities credit required for graduation.

Composition Honors
Composition Honors will follow the same course outline as Composition. However, Honor students will be
instructed in more advanced writing strategies and will create compositions of greater depth. This course
will fulfill the third or fourth English credit required for graduation.

AP Literature & Composition
This course includes intensive study of representative works from various genres and periods, concentrating
on works of recognized literary merit. Reading in an AP course is both wide and deep. This reading
necessarily builds upon the reading done in previous English courses. Careful attention to both textual
detail and historical context provides a foundation for interpretation. Writing is an integral part of the AP
English Literature and Composition course and exam. Writing assignments focus on the critical analysis of
literature and include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays. Students are expected to take the
AP exam in the spring. This course is designed for the student capable of doing college-level work while still
in high school. It is expected students will take the AP exam in May. See your school counselor if you have
a financial hardship.

AP Language & Compostion
This course critically analyzes language and its structures. Identification and application of an author’s use
of rhetoric is a concentrated focus. Students will be classifying and writing essays, building and developing
a more sophisticated vocabulary, researching and compiling supportive documentation, and writing and critically
analyzing timed writings based on previous AP examinations. Students are expected to take the AP exam
in the spring. This course is designed for the student capable of doing college-level work while still in
high school.  Students will be expected to complete a summer reading assignment prior to entry. It is
expected students will take the AP exam in May. See your school counselor if you have a financial hardship.