English

English 8 is a required course that consists of grammar and usage, as well as composing and expression. Students will refine their skills in the writing process as they compose original stories and poems. In addition, a large portion of the year is spent on the instruction and comprehension of literature. The areas of short stories, drama, nonfiction, poetry, myths, legends, folktales, and the elements of the novel are included in this course. Students will use interviewing techniques to gain information and will be exposed to all aspects of research. As a measure of these skills, students will be required to pass “proficient” on the Standards of Learning tests of Virginia.

 

This course is available to eighth graders with proven academic skills. This class covers the same curriculum as English 8, but differentiation of required content can be seen through style assessment, presentation of material, as well as student choice on projects, tests, and writing. Students will be required to demonstrate proficiency on SOL tests. Critical thinking skills are a requirement. SUMMER READING IS REQUIRED. STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING AND COMPLETING THE REQUIRED SUMMER READING ASSIGNMENT.

 

The ninth grade English student analyzes the components of the sentence with particular emphasis on phrases and clauses. Vocabulary development plays an important role and includes the study of the derivations of words and analogies. Students read various types of literature including nonfiction, short stories, poetry, novel, drama, and the epic. Students also refine their skills in the writing process as they write original works of poetry, short stories, drama, and research paper.

 

This course is available to freshmen with proven academic skills in the language arts. Oral expression is emphasized through speeches and debates. The course seeks to foster creative thought and close interpretive reading of the various types of literature including nonfiction, short stories, poetry, novel, drama, and the epic. In addition to the textbook, students use other sources for their literature reading. Students learn to incorporate literary criticism in their analysis of literature. Independent study and monthly projects round out the literary experience. An overview of the sentence structure is included. In preparation for standardized tests and college work, intensive vocabulary study is emphasized. SUMMER READING IS REQUIRED. STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING AND COMPLETING THE REQUIRED SUMMER READING ASSIGNMENT.