Thornton Academy Program of Studies 2-24- 25 | Page 14

Freshman English Foundations

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation

This course will focus on supporting and enhancing students ’ foundational ability in reading and writing . Throughout the year , students will work on essential grammar and writing skills such as paragraph structure , topic sentences , and basic essay organization , focusing on clarity and accessibility . The curriculum includes accessible high-interest texts and practical materials to encourage comprehension and discussion . Class activities are designed to promote collaboration and discussion , fostering a supportive , positive learning environment where students can build confidence in their reading , writing , and critical thinking skills .

Freshman English Honors

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation

This enriching and challenging course is designed to develop advanced skills in composition and literature . With an emphasis on intellectual rigor , creative expression , and analytical thinking , 9th grade Honors English aims to inspire a lifelong love for literature and a command of advanced writing skills . Mastery of the five-paragraph essay format is a key objective , setting the foundation for advanced writing tasks . This course delves into the intricacies of grammar and writing , emphasizing the development of paragraph structure , topic sentences , introduction and conclusion writing , thesis formulation , and effective transitions . Students will engage in a comprehensive inquiry-based literature study , including various novels , short stories , non-fiction selections , and one Shakespearean drama , to develop more sophisticated analytical skills , particularly in complex characterization . Students will be challenged to think critically and be willing and motivated for frequent class discussions . Extensive reading and writing tasks , accelerated pacing , and increased sophistication expectations distinguish this course from the core level .

SOPHOMORES

Sophomore English

1 Credit

This core-level course is designed to introduce students to new ideas and perspectives using literature to understand society and culture , exploring themes related to assumptions about class and gender , as well as the tensions between individuals and society . All tenth-grade classes will engage in a significant unit on poetry and will read various novels , as well as a variety of short stories , nonfiction pieces , and plays . Writing instruction extends the skills developed in the freshman year to encompass a broad range of writing experiences , emphasizing developing analytical , expository , and creative writing skills , with a particular focus on crafting a literary analysis essay .

Sophomore English Foundations

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation

Students will enhance their comprehension skills in this course by exploring high-interest literature from diverse cultural perspectives . Students will engage in a unit on poetry and will read various novels , as well as a variety of short stories , nonfiction pieces , and plays . Students will be prompted to reflect on the relationship between literature and their own lives . Emphasis will be placed on paragraph development , grammar , word usage , vocabulary , and real-world communication skills . This class is tailored for students intending to enter the workforce immediately after high school .

Sophomore English Honors

1 Credit Prerequisite : Freshman English Honors , or teacher recommendation

In this challenging world literature course , students will engage with texts that showcase diverse cultural perspectives , emphasizing the exploration of human experiences and worldviews . Students will engage in a comprehensive inquiry-based literature study , including various novels , short stories , non-fiction selections , and one Shakespearean drama , to develop more sophisticated analytical skills , particularly in theme development

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