English Language Arts

Instructed Areas

Grade 9

Honors Language Arts I
Advanced Language Arts I
Language Arts
The first year in the four year sequence of the integrated Language Arts Program is designed to provide students with a foundation for studies in literature and writing. Using a thematic approach, students study four genres: short stories, drama, novels and poetry. Students read, analyze, discuss and write essays to demonstrate knowledge of one or more of the following topics: point of view, plot, literary review (criticism). Writing assignments focus on the process of writing (prewriting, drafting, revising and editing). Students write compositions regularly to demonstrate their knowledge of these components.   Principles of grammar are infused into the process as needed. In the Bristol-Plymouth Advanced and Honors section, additional work is required, such as increased levels of homework, in-depth analysis of major topics and themes, and independent study research projects. Students are expected to take their writing to the next level so that it is aesthetically pleasing and thought provoking as well as functional.

Grade 10

Honors Language Arts II
Advanced Language Arts II
Language Arts II
The second in the four-year sequence of the Integrated Language Arts Program will emphasize the in-depth analysis and interpretation of fiction, non-fiction (memoir, essay and autobiography), poetry and drama. A continuation of the writing process begun in the previous year will focus on composition. Emphasis is placed on varying the types of sentences employed in writing and on paragraph development. Writing assignments will stimulate the student’s ability to develop effective and meaningful communication to a greater level of proficiency.
 
In addition, students will be assigned supplemental reading and will be required to produce one independent research project. Students in the Advanced Language Arts II and Honors will have additional required work as noted in the course guide. As in Language Arts I, students will continue preparation for the MCAS exam.

Grade 11

Advanced Language Arts
Language Arts
The third year of the integrated Language Arts Program reflects the belief that students learn when they can make connections among the curriculum, their interests and life experiences. Language, reading and literature, and composition and media are addressed in the classroom to meet State standards. A diverse selection of literary study includes Native American folklore, Puritan writings, Transcendentalism, American Gothic, the Harlem Renaissance, and numerous female writers. A completed portfolio will include evidence of their literary and technical competencies including goals, a current resume and a cover letter. Those students who take Advanced courses will be given additional opportunities to develop the skills necessary for entrance to college. Students in the Advanced courses will also be required to complete additional supplemental readings, writing assignments and projects.

Grade 12

Advanced Language Arts IV
Language Arts IV
The fourth year of the integrated Language Arts Program is designed for students to draw upon prior knowledge of literature and writing while honing these proficiencies and incorporating high order thinking skills to their learning. Through a variety of genres, all students will be exposed to language, literature, composition, and media in the classroom to meet state standards. Grammar is addressed in context and as needed. Students will continue to add to their portfolios to supply evidence of their various competencies. All senior Language Arts teachers must teach the elements of the Senior Research Paper. Students in the Advanced Course will also be required to complete supplemental readings, an additional novel as well as a number of independent projects.