Diploma Program Course Content: English
Four years of English is a pretty common graduation standard no matter what state you live in. It is considered one of four core subjects, the others being math, science, and social studies.
Ninth and tenth grade courses typically consist of two or more of following elements:
- Grammar: When thinking about grammar, think parts of speech. Think about learning the rules that govern written expression. But, do you need four years of grammar? Probably not. I don’t know that there is a correlation between being a solid grammatician and being a good writer. One to two years should be enough grammar for any student.
- Composition: The ability to express yourself in writing cannot be understated. We recommend ninth graders start with expository writing. Students need to know the basics of paragraph construction leading to mastering writing a five- paragraph essay. Creative writing should follow expository writing in tenth grade.
- Vocabulary: A study of words emphasizing an understanding and use of prefixes, suffixes, and roots is recommended. Vocabulary words associated with the literature the student is reading may also be part of this study.
- Literature: For ninth graders, we recommend using a text that provides a sampling from the main writers that make up the cannon of literature.
The above looks like a lot of work, and it could be if you include all four elements. If you choose to include all four, you should be prepared to adjust how much work goes into each part and be willing to take a break and remove one from time to time.
Eleventh and twelfth grade English courses typically focus on literature or writing, but not both. For literature courses, surveys or in-depth studies of at least two of the following categories is recommended: World, British, American, Classical, or Shakespeare. For writing, an advanced course requiring research, and writing to persuade (position papers) is recommended.
Are these our only choices to satisfy the English requirement? No! Journalism, publications, blogging, website content management, and theater/speech arts are just some of the other possibilities that may also be used.
Next time we’ll consider math.
Thanks for reading!
Curt Bumcrot, MRE
Check out Thelma’s classes for next year here. She’s offering some great content and is now enrolling students!
