AP Language and Composition

This year long course explores some of the traditions, innovations, and complexities of writing in the Americas, and will culminate in taking the AP Language and Composition Exam. The course will explore the nuances of writing throughout the different eras in American History, focusing on the attitudes which shaped the writing of the time. In accordance with the College Board’s AP English Course Description, an emphasis is placed on enabling “students to read complex texts with understanding and to write prose of sufficient richness and complexity to communicate effectively with mature readers” (6). Students will learn to analyze graphics and visual texts as well as literary criticism, then apply them to their own analysis of written texts. The course will require expository, analytical, argumentative, and personal writing through which students will learn to express themselves in a variety of contexts and will culminate in a documented analysis essay of a major text or texts.

English 3

English 3 is a yearlong required course for college preparatory juniors.  Students will examine the works of significant American authors, genres, and movements.  Students develop critical thinking skills by analyzing readings, participating in class discussions, and by writing formal literary analysis essays.  Students focus on clearly articulating ideas through process-oriented writing, practicing both analytic and creative responses.  Students read and evaluate literary criticism and then write a critical essay based on the student’s critical reading and  research of a particular contemporary American author.  Students practice using academic research skills (the Big Six) to plan and produce an MLA documented final product that reflects their understanding of academic research and analytic writing.  Students will enhance their study of grammar and vocabulary as it relates to PSAT and SAT tests and written and oral communication skills.