Students in this college–level course will
read and carefully analyze literature, with an emphasis on British literature,
written in a variety of time periods, from the 16th century through the
contemporary period. This course will provide students with the intellectual
challenges and workload consistent with an honors level English class. The
course is designed to engage students in the careful reading and critical
analysis of literature. Through the close reading of selected texts, students
can deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both
meaning and pleasure for their readers. Throughout the year students will write
for a variety of purposes (informational, creatively, persuasively, etc.),
demonstrating an understanding and mastery of standard, written English. Students
should have a broad vocabulary which indicates that they can use words
appropriately to show denotative accuracy and connotative resourcefulness. As
they read and write, students should consider a work's structure, style, and
themes, as well as such smaller-scale elements as the use of figurative
language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. The course will work towards
preparation for the state standardized tests, taken in March of this school
year, and the Advanced Placement tests, which are taken in May of the student’s
senior year.