23-24 Thornton Academy Program of Studies ThorntonAcademy_POS 2023-24 FINAL | Page 29

Nonfiction Literature / Journalism
Monsters and Misfits
Creative Writing
Literature of American Sport
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Nonfiction Literature / Journalism

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation
This year-long , college preparatory , reading and writing elective will explore a number of writing styles and genres . Students will read and discuss classic examples of writing and be asked to create a variety of original pieces . As reporters , photojournalists , designers , and writers for our online news magazine , students will be engaged in real work . Mini-lessons each day will introduce students to the best work in the field . Additionally , for at least part of each class , students will be working in a writing lab / newsroom environment on your individual assignments . An emphasis will be placed on understanding the specific style or genre , the historical aspect of this work , and the literary or historical significance of this type of writing .

Monsters and Misfits

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation
Monsters and misfits are pervasive in our culture because they represent both individual and societal fears and anxieties . In this course , students will concentrate on examining the nature of our fears and how monsters and misfits come to symbolize cultural anxieties through the study of the horror genre . Through research , writing , and critical cultural analysis of horror film and literature , students will apply critical theories to examine and identify classical literary misfits and monsters and their manifestations in the 21st century . Major literary works studied will include Frankenstein , Salem ’ s Lot , and The Haunting of Hill House .

Creative Writing

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation
Creative writing is a writing-intensive course designed for students interested in writing , regardless of experience . All students will explore short fiction , poetry , and a variety of creative nonfiction . The course will conclude with an independent study in which students get to explore a genre of choice that was not covered in the class , such as : writing for the screen , drama , graphic stories , novel writing , video game narratives , songs , podcasting , etc .

Literature of American Sport

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation
This college preparatory English course will examine sports and sport issues through fiction , non-fiction , and dramatic reading . Readings such as Travis Roy ’ s Eleven Seconds , August Wilson ’ s Fences , and John Grisham ’ s Bleachers are a few of the selections . Students will also conduct an in-depth research project through the multigenre perspective ; various reading , writing , and oral assignments will also be required .
In addition to the English courses offered above , Thornton Academy has a host of services and classes for Multi Language learners whether they are from our local communities or are a part of our residential life program . These offerings vary from year to year based on the academic needs of these students and help support their academic experience across our full curriculum while building English language proficiency and skills . School counselors and teachers assist with placement and progress .

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