English courses are designed with one major goal--to improve communication skills. Because language skills are essential to all learning, students are required to complete 4 years of English / Language Arts credits.
9TH ENGLISH: Grade=9, Year=2 CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
- The emphasis in this course is placed upon increasing reading comprehension, written communication, and developing depth in critical thinking skills. Correctness of expression, organization, spelling, and vocabulary are taught through individual exercises and short writing tasks. Emphasis is placed upon developing the ability of the student to correctly express one or two basic concepts in writing.
- Group related activities are designed to develop student abilities in oral communication, effectively working with others, and aural skills. Students are introduced to a variety of classic and contemporary literary works. #1001
*Pre-AP ENGLISH 1: Grade=9, Year=2 CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
- Texts take center stage in the Pre-AP English 9 classroom, inspiring and preparing all students for close, critical reading and analytical writing. This course trains the reader to observe the small details in a text to arrive at a deeper understanding of the whole. It also trains the reader to appreciate authors’ sometimes-subtle choices, developing awareness of how words produce effects and how the conventions of the English language are used for both precision and style. As writers, students focus first on crafting complex sentences, building this foundational skill; they then move on to producing well-organized paragraphs and, as the year progresses, more sophisticated, long-form analyses. #0000
10TH ENGLISH: Grade=10, Year=2 CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
- The purpose of the course is to increase the student's competency in the use of the language, emphasizing building vocabulary and reinforcing the Iowa Core Writing Standards through a research composition. Using a variety of literature genres as a basis, the course further enables students to express themselves for both social and academic purposes. Students will investigate texts – literature, nonfiction, and film – as a means of understanding the “human condition.” #1051
*Pre-AP ENGLISH 2: Grade=10, Year=2 CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
- Prep-AP English 10 builds on the foundation of the Pre-AP English 9 course, with an emphasis on the recursive moves that matter in preparing students for the challenges of college-level reading, writing, and discussion. While English 9 introduces fundamental routines of close observation, critical analyses, and appreciation of author’s craft, Pre-AP English 10 requires students to apply those same practices to a new host of nonfiction and literary texts. As readers, students develop a vigilant awareness of how the poet, playwright, novelist, and writer of nonfiction alike can masterfully manipulate language to serve their unique purposes. As writers, students compose more nuanced analytical essays without losing sight of the importance of well-crafted sentences and a sense of cohesion. Each unit of Pre-AP English 10 culminates in a writing task that reflects the rigor of similar tasks they will eventually encounter on standardized writing exams, in AP English courses, and in college courses. #0000
11TH ENGLISH: Grade 11, Year = 2CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
- 11th English is a survey course that emphasizes the study of various genres of literature while focusing on strengthening composition skills. Through individual and group assignments, students will improve communication skills in reading, writing, speaking, visual expression, and observation. Literary elements are learned and applied in order to draw conclusions about literature and life. Communication is developed and practiced through a process approach in response to literature and research. Students will be given multiple opportunities to develop and demonstrate understanding of rhetoric and expand skills in literary analysis. Students will compose writings using their understanding of rhetoric regarding issues discussed in class, through papers and journal reflections. Units covered include an introduction to rhetoric and effective persuasion, author’s craft and thematic analysis, dystopian literature, and censorship through novels, poetry, drama, non-fiction, and film. Students will also develop their vocabulary and grammar skills through reading and writing. #1100, 11002
AP LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION: Grade 11, Year = 2CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
Note: The Advanced Placement program provides willing and academically prepared high school students with the opportunity to study and learn at the college level. AP courses are taught at the college level incorporating both college level reading and writing. The College Board does not deny any student from taking an AP course; however, students should be academically prepared. OHS strongly recommends that students who wish to enroll in an AP course have a cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- AP Language and Composition follows the guidelines stipulated by the College Board and require “expository, analytical, and argumentative writing assignments that are based on readings representing a wide variety of prose styles and genres.” The course will emphasize critical thinking, analysis, and synthesis of ideas presented by authors. Students will be reading full-length non-fiction texts throughout the year through their independent reading. In class readings will pull from a broad range of non-fiction essays, film clips, excerpts, political cartoons, editorials, speeches, etc. The instructor will provide direct feedback as well as opportunities for peer review and student self-reflection in order to foster the development of the successful use of rhetorical strategies in students’ writing. #1102
12th ENGLISH: Grade 12, Year = 2CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
- 12th English is a survey course that emphasizes the relationship of language arts skills in everyday life. Through individual and group assignments, students will improve language skills in reading, writing, speaking, visual expression, and observation. Students will evaluate literature in the world around them. Analysis of a variety of genres and visual disciplines will culminate in multiple opportunities to create artifacts. Students will create a personal portfolio and be given multiple opportunities to synthesize their learning throughout this course. Students will also develop their vocabulary and grammar skills through reading and writing. #1151, 11512
AP LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION: Grade 12, Year = 2CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
Note: The Advanced Placement program provides willing and academically prepared high school students with the opportunity to study and learn at the college level. AP courses are taught at the college level incorporating both college level reading and writing. The College Board does not deny any student from taking an AP course; however, students should be academically prepared. OHS strongly recommends that students who wish to enroll in an AP course have a cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- AP Literature and Composition follows the curricular requirements outlined by the College Board and focuses on building the skills necessary for college-level reading, writing, and critical thinking. The texts include works from a variety of time periods and genres, and the writing assignments include in-class essays as well as formal process essays with several opportunities for revision. In this college-level course, you will be asked to read and analyze challenging, provocative, dense, and sometimes controversial material. You will also be expected to come to class prepared to challenge yourself and others with interesting discussion points. #1150
ENGLISH FOR REAL LIFE: Grade=12, Year=2 CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
- This course is two semesters. The course will focus on increasing the kinds of skills you will need in real life such as: refreshing on basic grammar and usage skills, expressing your opinion through writing and speaking, learning to disagree using a professional voice, speaking and listening, creating a presentation, using credible sources, writing resumes, creating business communication and other basic skills. The course will focus on understanding purpose and audience and the kinds of traits we use to best address a specific audience, whether it be on the job or at home. This class will include research using primary and secondary sources, organization, and writing in a persuasive and/or technical style. We will discuss often in class and focus on real world situations that you may encounter at work in the future. #1160
ESL (English As A Second Language) BASIC: Grade=9-12, Year=2 CR, Prerequisite= Level 1 based on the ELPA21
ESL is for students whose primary language is a language other than English
- Students learn the basics of reading, writing, listening, and speaking of the English language. ESL Basic is taught from an English is the content area perspective. State approved English Language Arts (ELA) standards and English Language Proficiency (ELP) standards are supported by the course content. Students complete a variety of lessons in the content areas of math, science, and social studies with a focus on content vocabulary, cultural orientation, and study skills to learn English. An ELPA21 score and/or teacher recommendation determine if a student is in need of this class. An ELPA21 score and/or teacher recommendation is also used to determine when a student will move to a general education class and no longer needs ESL services. #1317
COMPREHENSIVE LANGUAGE ARTS 1: Grade=9-12, Year=1 CR, Prerequisite= Teacher Recommendation based on ELPA21 score
CLA1 is for students whose primary language is a language other than English
- Comprehensive Language Arts 1 provides instruction in basic language skills, integrating reading, writing, speaking, and listening, while placing great emphasis on the progress of individual students. Course content depends upon students’ abilities and may include vocabulary building, improving spelling and grammar, developing writing and composition skills, reading silently or aloud, and improving listening and comprehension skills. #1213
COMPREHENSIVE LANGUAGE ARTS 2: Grade=9-12, Year=1 CR, Prerequisite= Teacher Recommendation based on ELPA21 score
CLA2 is for students whose primary language is a language other than English
- Comprehensive Language Arts 2 continues to provide instruction in basic language skills, integrating reading, writing, speaking, and listening, while placing great emphasis on the progress of individual students. Course content depends upon students’ abilities and may include vocabulary building, improving spelling and grammar, developing writing and composition skills, reading silently or aloud, and improving listening and comprehension skills. #1214
ESL (English As A Second Language) NEWCOMER ACADEMY: Grade=9-12, Year=2 CR, Prerequisite= Level 1 based on the ELPA21
For students new to the United States whose primary language is language other than English
- Students focus on the fundamentals of reading, vocabulary development, language skills, and academic achievement in one designated period daily. Students in this course are also enrolled in an additional 2-period block ESL Basic course for a total of three periods of English language study to help students become literate in the English language.
LITERACY SKILLS 9-10: Grade=9-10, Year= 2 CR, Prerequisite=IEP Team Decision
- Literacy 9-10 focuses on building comprehension and vocabulary in both fiction and nonfiction texts. Content is derived from English 9 and English 10. Students will develop skills to recognize main ideas and supporting details and analyze the author’s intent. In addition, students will develop oral and written presentation skills including written expression, conventions of writing, and basic public speaking. All course work aligns with Iowa Core grade level standards. #303
LITERACY SKILLS 11-12: Grade=11-12, Year=2 CR, Prerequisite=IEP Team Decision
- Literacy 11-12 focuses on building comprehension and vocabulary in both fiction and nonfiction texts. Content from 11th and 12th English is modified. Students will develop skills to recognize main ideas and supporting details and analyze the author’s intent. In addition, students will develop oral and written presentation skills including written expression, conventions of writing, and basic public speaking. All course work aligns with Iowa Core grade level standards. #305
SPEECH: Grade=11-12, Semester=1 CR, No Prerequisite, RAI Approved
- Public speaking skills are necessary for success in the 21th century. Students learn the key concepts and basic principles of public speaking and communication. An emphasis is placed on the development of poise, self-confidence, and responsiveness of an effective speaker. Students learn to select material, research effectively, and organize and develop various presentations. Students construct coherent oral messages and communicate these to large groups. Speeches include the following: personal experience, opinion, demonstration, informative, entertaining, and persuasive. In addition, speaking activities may link to specific careers or include units on argumentation and debate, oral interpretation, drama/theater, radio/television, and ceremonial speeches (commencement, eulogy, tributes, dedication, etc.). #1251
LANGUAGE ARTS ELECTIVE COURSES
DRAMA – ACTING: Grade 10-12, Semester=1 CR, No Prerequisite
- Acting is a beginning performance and character analysis class. Acting techniques such as movement, motivation, ensemble building, and character development will be taught and practiced through numerous activities. Activities will be aimed at self-awareness and discovery by using imagination, focus, concentration, and body movement. Participation is an important factor in the grading process. Reading of dramatic literature will supplement the activity process and students will be required to keep a daily reflective journal as well as write monologues and an extensive character analysis. #1261
DRAMATIC LITERATURE: Grade=10-12, Semester=1 CR, No Prerequisite
- Dramatic Literature is a course designed to introduce students to the world of theatre and its literature. The focus of the class will be on dramatic works from various periods in history. Students will be required to do script writing, read plays aloud, construct projects, and actively participate in play production. The goal of this course is to help students better understand and appreciate the world of theatre. #1260
TECHNICAL THEATRE PRODUCTION: Grade 10-12, Semester=1 CR, No Prerequisite
- Students focus on script selection and analysis for production. There will be emphasis on the dramatic structure of a play and students will receive advanced work in stage lighting, make-up, sound, historical research, and costuming. Much of this course is geared around actual stage application and design projects based on higher level thinking. #1262
ESL (English As A Second Language) INTERMEDIATE: Grade=9-12, Year=2 CR, Prerequisite= Based on the ELPA21
ESL is for students whose primary language is a language other than English
- ESL Intermediate offers a similar variety of lessons in content areas listed above with a focus on improving English language skills. This course is taught in conjunction with Comprehensive Language Arts 1. #1319
ESL (English As A Second Language) ADVANCED: Grade=9-12, Year=2 CR, Prerequisite= Based on the ELPA21
ESL is for students whose primary language is a language other than English
- ESL Advanced offers a similar variety of lessons in content areas listed above with a focus on improving English language skills. This course is taught in conjunction with Comprehensive Language Arts 2. #1320
WRITING LAB: Grade=9-12, Year=2 CR, Prerequisite=IEP Team Decision, Concurrently Enrolled in an English Course
- Written expression, organization, spelling, grammar, and vocabulary are reinforced. Content for the course is derived from students’ schedules: required English Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, or Mathematics courses. The purpose of the course is to provide additional supports for students requiring specially designed instruction. #447
WILSON LANGUAGE LAB: Grade=9-12, Year=2 CR, Prerequisite=IEP
- Team Decision or counselor recommendation The Wilson Reading System (WRS) is a structured literacy program based on phonological-coding research and Orton-Gillingham principles, WRS directly and systematically teaches the structure of the English language. Through the program, students learn fluent decoding and encoding skills to the level of mastery in order to improve reading comprehension and writing skills. #0000
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