Thornton Academy Program of Studies 2-24- 25 | Page 16

development of a nuanced writing style , the course encourages students to craft persuasive , well-reasoned arguments while refining their ability to synthesize information from multiple sources . Rigorous analysis of literature , non-fiction , and multimedia sources will foster an in-depth understanding of language and its impact on communication . This course prepares students not only for success on the Advanced Placement Language and Composition exam but also equips them with the skills necessary for college-level writing and critical thinking in a variety of academic and professional contexts .

SENIORS

Senior English

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation

Senior English is a comprehensive and thoughtprovoking course that seeks to elevate students ' critical thinking abilities , reading and writing skills , and literary appreciation in preparation for their transition to higher education and beyond . This course will utilize 20th- and 21st-century fiction and nonfiction texts to explore the link between culture and personal identity , aiding students in identifying their core values as they transition from high school . The course emphasizes advanced writing techniques , encouraging students to express themselves articulately and persuasively through various genres , including argumentative and literary essays , creative pieces , and research projects .

Senior English Foundations

1 Credit Prerequisite : Teacher recommendation

This course is tailored for students intending to enter the workforce , military , or vocational training immediately after graduation . Participants will further enhance their reading , writing , and oral communication skills while delving into the influence of both non-fiction and fiction on their daily lives and perspectives . This course will utilize high-interest fiction and nonfiction texts to explore the link between culture and personal identity , aiding students in identifying their core values as they transition from high school . Students will maintain a blog documenting their reactions to this material , incorporating a series of 5-paragraph essays and informal journal entries . In the spring , the emphasis will shift towards work-related learning and skills enhancement .

Senior English Honors

1 Credit

Prerequisite : Junior English Honors or AP Language & Composition , or teacher recommendation

This accelerated and demanding course aims to enhance reading , writing , and literature discussion skills , Honors Senior English is an accelerated , intellectually stimulating , and demanding advanced course designed to challenge high-achieving seniors as they refine their critical thinking , analytical , reading , writing , and communication skills .

By exploring complex literary texts , including classic and contemporary works , students will engage in rigorous student-centered discussions to continue developing communication and analysis skills . The course strongly emphasizes fostering independent thought and honing advanced writing techniques , with students producing sophisticated essays , research papers , and creative projects .

Senior 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 involves reading a combination of fiction and non-fiction , aiming to foster the writing and critical thinking skills essential for navigating the adult world . The course will also delve into students ' individual post-graduation plans , actively seeking to identify , nurture , and refine their goals . Major topics covered include personal identity , lifestyle and careers , societal issues , and research .

AP Literature & Composition

1 Credit

Prerequisite : Honors Junior English or AP Language & Composition , or teacher recommendation

Advanced Placement Literature and Composition is a rigorous and comprehensive course designed for highly motivated and academically advanced students . This course challenges students to explore literature from various genres , time periods , and cultures , fostering a deep understanding of literary analysis and interpretation in student-led discussions . Students will engage with critical literary theory , enhancing their ability to analyze texts through various lenses . The course also emphasizes writing as a process and provides opportunities for learning new brainstorming and drafting techniques , peer feedback , and one-on-one teacher conferences . This course prepares students for the Advanced Placement Literature and Composition exam while providing them with the

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