Thornton Academy Program of Studies 2-24- 25 | Page 13

Courses in the order that they appear in this section :
Freshman English
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ENGLISH

The TA English department ' s curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive and progressive English education throughout high school . In ninth grade , students receive an introduction to composition and literature , with a significant focus on grammar and writing skills , including the five-paragraph essay format . Students will study one of Shakespeare ' s plays and various novels alongside a short story unit to enrich their comprehension of literature . Tenth grade builds on this foundation by exploring literature within cultural contexts , particularly through a substantial poetry unit , and extending writing skills to include literary analysis , expository , persuasive , and creative writing . In eleventh grade , the curriculum shifts to a multi-genre literature course centered on the American experience . Students delve into historical contexts while refining analysis and research skills . The emphasis extends to various writing purposes and audiences . Finally , in twelfth grade , seniors engage with literature while preparing for life beyond high school , focusing on essential skills for their next steps and cultivating habits of mind that foster lifelong resilience and learning . Direct grammar instruction is integrated into the curriculum throughout all grades through an online program .

Courses in the order that they appear in this section :

4 credits are needed for graduation , # means not NCAA-approved
Freshman English Freshman English Foundations # Freshman English Honors Sophomore English Sophomore English Foundations # Sophomore English Honors Junior English Junior English Foundations # Junior English Honors Junior English for the Real World # AP Language and Composition Senior English Senior English Foundations # Senior English Honors Senior English for the Real World # AP Literature and Composition English Composition Creative Writing Literature of American Sport Monsters and Misfits

FRESHMEN

Freshman English

1 Credit
This course is designed to help students become proficient readers , writers , and communicators , aligning with their post-high school education goals , such as attending a two or four-year college . The curriculum includes a diverse selection of high-interest fiction , short stories , and one Shakespeare play to develop emerging analytical skills , particularly in complex characterization . The emphasis is on encouraging critical analysis and fostering thoughtful discussion . Additionally , students will continue to refine fundamental grammar and writing skills , covering paragraph structure , topic sentences , introduction and conclusion writing , thesis formulation , and effective transitions to demonstrate proficiency in the fiveparagraph essay format .

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