Thornton Academy Program of Studies 2-24- 25 | Page 15

across a text . A poetry unit will introduce students to poetic terminology , various poetry forms , and writing poetry . Above-average competency in writing and literature analysis is expected , with an emphasis on perfecting the traditional literary analysis essay . 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 .

JUNIORS

Junior English

1 Credit

Eleventh-grade English is a diverse literature course that delves into the American experience through its various perspectives and voices to enhance understanding of the historical periods studied in the U . S . history courses , with students investigating each reading ’ s historical context and relevance to their own lives . Students will explore novels , short stories , essays , and other nonfiction works . Juniors will continue to work on their skills in analysis and research , emphasizing grammar and comprehending writing for diverse audiences and purposes , particularly in the realms of expository , persuasive , descriptive , and personal narrative writing .

Junior English Foundations

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation

This course is suitable for students intending to enter the workforce directly after graduation or those planning to pursue further education with technical or vocational experience and coursework . This course focuses on fundamental reading , writing , and communication competencies essential for success in the contemporary world . Through a carefully structured curriculum , students will engage with accessible texts to enhance their reading comprehension , vocabulary , and critical thinking abilities . Writing instruction will emphasize basic grammar , sentence structure , and paragraph development , gradually progressing to more complex forms of expression .

Junior English Honors

1 Credit

Prerequisite : Honors Sophomore English , or teacher recommendation

This rigorous course provides a critical exploration of American literature through its various perspectives and voices to enhance understanding of the historical periods studied in the U . S . history courses , with students investigating each reading ’ s historical context and relevance to their own lives . Students must articulate their understanding clearly and coherently through class discussions and written assignments . Students will delve into at least four novels , short stories , and non-fiction articles . The curriculum also involves honing personal narrative writing skills , specifically focusing on the college essay . Additionally , students will apply a critical lens to research , culminating in a significant research paper and a year-end , student-driven project .

Junior English For the Real World

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation

This course is tailored for students intending to enter the workforce , military , vocational programs , or community college immediately after graduation . The curriculum includes a mix of fiction and non-fiction readings , aiming to cultivate the writing and critical thinking skills essential for the transition to the adult world . Students will explore various writing genres , focusing on expository , persuasive , descriptive , and personal narrative writing . A research project will be guided by students ' interests .

AP Language and Composition

1 Credit Prerequisite : Sophomore English Honors or teacher recommendation

Advanced Placement Language and Composition is an intensive and intellectually challenging course designed to hone students ' critical reading , writing , and analytical skills at a college-level proficiency . By exploring diverse rhetorical strategies , students will learn to dissect and evaluate various forms of discourse , including essays , articles , speeches , and visual texts . Emphasizing the

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