English II (Honors)

This course builds upon the 9th Grade Literature and Composition course through a continued focus on a study of literary genres and informational texts. Students will develop an understanding that theme is what relates literature to life and that themes are recurring in the literary world, and students will explore the effect of themes in regard to interpretation. Students will also read across the curriculum to develop academic and personal interests in different subjects. While the focus of composition studies is writing argument in tenth grade literature, students will also demonstrate competency in informative/expository and narrative writing genres. They will also engage in research, timed writings, and the writing process. Instruction in language conventions will occur within the context of reading, writing, and speaking, rather than in isolation. Students will also demonstrate an understanding of speaking and listening for a variety of purposes.  Other topics and skills specific to preparing students for the rigors of an Advanced Placement (AP) course will be integrated throughout the course.