Academic Handbook 2021-2022 | Page 80

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Crofton House School

Spoken Language 11 is designed for students who would like to gain confidence in their abilities as communicators by exploring oral storytelling , drama , debating and public speaking . Although spoken language is the focus of this course , students will also be provided with opportunities to further develop their critical thinking and writing skills , through the close reading of non-fiction and literary texts . To prepare for the more sophisticated writing required in English Studies 12 , students will review the components of advanced grammar and syntax , paying particular attention to the importance of clarity and precision . This course will use the Harkness method , as well as lecture , online , inquiry and project-based teaching and learning strategies to enable students to refine their reading , speaking , and writing skills .

The Big Ideas explored in this course are :

• The exploration of text and story deepens student understanding of diverse , complex ideas about identity , others , and the world

• People understand text differently depending on their worldviews and perspectives

• Texts are socially , geographically , and historically constructed

• Language shapes ideas and influences others

• The questioning of what is heard , read , and voice is powerful and evocative

Assessments may include formative and summative analytical paragraphs , essays , creative and other compositional pieces , debate , spoken word poetry , drama performances , project work , discussions , presentations , and public speaking .

English Studies 12

English Studies 12 is a Capstone course that brings together all of the learning experiences that students have pursued in their previous English courses , while providing opportunities to further develop these skills through the exploration of contemporary and classic texts . This course uses the Harkness method , as well as lecture , online , inquiry and project-based teaching and learning strategies to enable students to focus on mastering their critical and creative thinking skills , while developing confidence in their ability to communicate their ideas effectively with others . Additionally , students will continue to develop their understanding of advanced grammar and syntax , paying particular attention to the importance of clarity and precision while demonstrating their mastery of essential writing skills through an extended literary research paper .

The Big Ideas explored in this course are :

• The exploration of text and story deepens student understanding of diverse , complex ideas about identity , others , and the world

• People understand text differently depending on their worldviews and perspectives

• Texts are socially , geographically , and historically constructed ; language shapes ideas and influences others

• The questioning of what is heard , read , and viewed contributes to educated and engaged citizens

Assessments may include presentations , discussions , debating and public speaking , as well as analytical , argumentative and creative writing assignments .

AP English Language and Composition