English

• Credits: 10

• College Prep Course

This course is designed to be a comprehensive review of all English skills with a specific emphasis on writing skills and literature interpretation. Special attention will be given to reading skills necessary to gather information, understand critical purpose and gain enjoyment and appreciation of literature. The course will emphasize the same basic skills tested in most standardized tests of basic skill. Therefore, vocabulary will be a major part of the course. Language usage and sentence mechanics will also receive attention. Since writing is the most sophisticated communication skill, great emphasis will be placed on composition and fluency of writing. Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

COMPOSITION

1. Write a paragraph using a topic sentence that is supported and developed by the other sentences in the paragraph.

2. Use and improve the methods of single paragraph development in the composition of multi-paragraph essays.

3. Write effective and concise business letters.

4. Effectively apply the writing process to their essays.

5. Write an expository paragraph of not less than five sentences with supporting detail developing a single idea.

6. Write complete sentences.

7. Use correct end and internal punctuation.

8. Use a variety of sentence types: compound, complex, compound-complex sentences.

9. Write for a variety of audiences and purposes using different modes of writing: descriptive/ sensory, narrative, expository/analytical, etc.

LITERATURE

1. Classify a literary work by genre.

2. Interpret cultural attitudes and customs other than his own through a reading of literature.

3. Respond to information explicitly stated in the text (literal).

4. Respond with ideas or opinions based on material read but not stated explicitly in the text (interpretive).

5. Investigate, evaluate, and integrate the information and ideas with one's own experience and/or apply it in a new context (critical).

6. Analyze and evaluate short stories, poems, novels, drama, and essays as a reflection of life, values, and ideas of this and other cultures.

7. Specific reading objectives:

   • Follow and interpret a sequence of ideas and events.

   • Identify the main idea and supporting details.

   • Re-interpret content in their own language and use context to understand meaning.

   • Apply knowledge gained through past experiences.

   • Draw conclusions and make judgments based on information received.

   • Identify the author's purpose, mood, tone, and theme.

   • Interpret figurative language.

   • Predict outcomes in terms of prior knowledge.

   • Distinguish between fact and opinion and recognize persuasive statements.

8. Write critical evaluations of stories, poetry, articles, dramatic presentations, and novels.

Students who fail must repeat the course.  Summer school is recommended.

• Credits: 10

• Honors Course

This course places a strong emphasis on various writing modes and in researching major writers’ contributions.  Students should be highly motivated.   Students are expected to respond to the various genres by demonstrating in-class discussions, oral presentations, and higher-level thinking skills. Study skills will be emphasized. Upon completion of the course, a student will be able to:

COMPOSITION

1. Write a clear thesis statement.

2. Employ improved vocabulary and conventions of Standard English regarding content and purpose, organization, unity and coherence in written work.

3. Provide appropriate structure, tone, and point of view to various writing modes.

4. Vary sentence structure and length.

5. Provide transition between sentences and paragraphs in a logical functional style.

6. Evaluate and score peer writing.

7. Employ conventions of Standard English.

8. Conduct research and formulate an argument based on evidence.

9. Respond to on-demand writing prompts.

10. Complete several process papers.

READING

1. Utilize critical thinking to apply to literature.

2. Analyze and evaluate selected literature as a reflection of customs, culture and values of particular groups or regions.

3. Trace key social developments from the Puritan attitude through the modern themes of alienation as a reflection of change in lifestyle and literary trends.

4. Recognize the interrelationship of various ideas expressed by authors studied and elaborate a subjective response through analysis and synthesis.

5. Utilize the different points of view of literature as a means of looking at one’s own experience in a new light.

6. Distinguish various literary styles and techniques.

7. Identify figures of speech and devices of sound.

8. Identify meter, verse forms, stanza forms and types of poems.

9. Make connections between classic works of literature and non-fiction selections.

• Credits: 10

• College Prep Course

This course is designed as a survey of surveys classic and contemporary literature. Strong emphasis is placed on various writing modes and in researching major writers’ contributions.  Students should be highly motivated. Students are expected to respond to the various genres by demonstrating in-class discussions, oral presentations, and higher-level thinking skills. Study skills will be emphasized. Upon completion of the course, a student will be able to:

WRITING

1. Write a clear thesis statement.

2. Employ improved vocabulary and conventions of Standard English regarding content and purpose, organization, unity and coherence in written work.

3. Provide appropriate structure, tone, and point of view to various writing modes.

4. Vary sentence structure and length.

5. Provide transition between sentences and paragraphs in a logical functional style.

6. Evaluate and score peer writing.

7. Employ conventions of Standard English.

8. Conduct research and formulate an argument based on evidence.

9. Respond to on-demand writing prompts.

10. Complete several process papers.

READING

1. Utilize critical thinking to apply to literature.

2. Analyze and evaluate selected literature as a reflection of customs, culture and values of particular groups or regions.

3. Trace key social developments from the Puritan attitude through the modern themes of alienation as a reflection of change in lifestyle and literary trends.

4. Recognize the interrelationship of various ideas expressed by authors studied and elaborate a subjective response through analysis and synthesis.

5. Utilize the different points of view of literature as a means of looking at one’s own experience in a new light.

6. Distinguish various literary styles and techniques.

7. Identify figures of speech and devices of sound.

8. Identify meter, verse forms, stanza forms and types of poems.

9. Make connections between classic works of literature and non-fiction selections.

• Credits: 10

• Honors Course

This course is designed for highly motivated and engaged students who possess foundational reading and writing skills. Honors English 2 surveys classic and contemporary literature and provides opportunities for students to strengthen various writing modes (formative, research, explanatory, etc.) Students must be willing to deeply engage in critical thinking, in-class discussions, and collaborative projects. Study and executive functioning skills are imperative to a student's success in the course; students are expected to work well independently and collaboratively.

READING

1. Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

2. Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze in detail its development over the course of the text, including how it emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details; provide an objective summary of the text

3. Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the cumulative impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone.

WRITING

1. Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.

2. Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.

• Credits: 10

• College Prep Course

Through the study of central works in American Literature students gain an understanding of ethical, aesthetic and cultural values.  Genres in the various literary movements such as colonial, romanticism, transcendentalism, and modernism are studied.  The course work will prepare students to read and think critically.  Compositions will reinforce the writing process and a heavy emphasis on critical analysis. The curriculum also prepares students for college entrance exams and requirements. Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

LITERATURE

1. Utilize improved vocabulary

2. Read for both literal and figurative meaning.

3. Evaluate the philosophical, political, religious, ethical, and social influences of the historical period that shaped the characters, plots, and settings.

4. Analyze the rhetorical devices writers use to achieve their purpose.

5. Analyze the way in which the theme of a selection represents a view or comment on life, using evidence to support the claim.

WRITING

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the elements of discourse (e.g., purpose, speaker, audience, form) when completing narrative, expository, persuasive, or descriptive writing assignments.

2. Write interpretive essays that demonstrate a close read of the text, a unifying purpose, and clarity of expression.

3. Enhance meaning by employing various rhetorical strategies to develop their ideas such as comparison/contrast, cause and effect, examples, narration, description, and argumentation.

4. Achieve a high interest level in their compositions by employing rhetorical devices such as parallelism, repetition, analogy, etc.

5. Revise process papers to highlight the individual voice, improve sentence variety and style, and enhance subtlety of meaning and tone in ways that are consistent with purpose, audience, and genre.

6. Employ conventions of standard English.

• Credits: 10 (Weighted Grade)  

• Advanced Placement Course

The AP course in English Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes.  An in depth study of rhetorical analysis increases student awareness of the interactions among a writer’s purposes, audience expectations, and how the conventions of language contribute to effectiveness in writing.

The goals of the AP English Language & Composition course are diverse because the college composition course is one of the most varied in the curriculum.  The course does, however,

1. Provide students with opportunities to write about a variety of subjects and to demonstrate an awareness of audience and purpose

2. Enable students to write effectively and confidently in college courses across the curriculum and in their professional communication as well as in personal and reflective writing

3. Teach students that the expository, analytical and argumentative writing they must do in college is based on reading, not solely on personal experience and observation

4. Teach students to read primary and secondary sources carefully

5. Synthesize material from texts for use in their composition and to cite sources using conventions recommended by professional organizations such as the Modern Language Association (MLA)

6. Enable students to read complex texts with understanding and to write prose of richness and complexity to communicate effectively with mature readers

7. Help students move beyond such programmatic responses as the five-paragraph essay

8. Encourage students to place emphasis on content, purpose, and audience and allow this focus to guide the organization of their writing.

• Credits: 10

• College Prep Course

This course explores personal identity, beliefs, and societal challenges through an engaging study of literary fiction, science fiction, dystopian literature, social documentaries, and current events. Students will examine how authors and filmmakers use narrative to reflect and critique societal values, offering insights into humanity's complexities and the pursuit of personal growth. Through collaborative discussions, analysis of diverse media, and reflective writing, students will sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, equipping them to navigate complex societal challenges, articulate their beliefs, and pursue meaningful goals as they transition to life beyond high school. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

LITERATURE AND MEDIA

1. Interpret both literal and symbolic meanings in texts, films, and multimedia.

2. Analyze how societal, philosophical, and ethical issues are presented through speculative and dystopian narratives.

3. Evaluate the rhetorical strategies and literary devices used by authors, media, societal leaders, and other creators to convey themes, provoke thought, and inspire change.

4. Connect themes of personal identity, resilience, and morality across literary and media forms.

WRITING AND COMMUNICATION

1. Articulate personal perspectives and analyses through narrative, expository, and reflective writings.

2. Develop and present multimedia projects that integrate research, creativity, and critical analysis.

3. Employ rhetorical strategies such as analogy, metaphor, and juxtaposition to enhance written and spoken arguments.

4. Revise written work to refine clarity, style, and voice for a variety of audiences and purposes.

• Recommended Placement: Senior

• Credits: 10

• College Prep Course

Film and Literature is a college prep English course spotlighting both the analysis and history of exceptional cinema. The course will include early motion pictures and proceed toward the more complex narratives of contemporary film. Throughout the year, students will reflect upon some of cinemas most influential moments – those that have often defined generations. We will analyze, compare, discuss, and write on several selections from amongst these films. Regardless of the work’s genre, our studies will consistently focus on the manner in which both film and literature inform our lives.

The central themes of each film will be our primary focus throughout, offering students a more complete understanding of the human condition and its complexities. Of equal importance, Film and Literature will regularly challenge students to more critically consider the world around them. The intention here will be that of lighting a clearer path toward exactly the sort of future our students are hoping for - and a future they deserve. One of the great powers of cinema has always been that of enlightening its audience. If a movie can offer better understanding of the world around us, and sometimes even a deeper recognition of ourselves - it becomes a powerful tool indeed.

• Credits: 10 (Weighted Grade)  

• Advanced Placement Course

The course prepares students to earn college credit by passing the Advanced Placement Examination. Students will engage with a rigorous curriculum, reading selected novels, plays, essays, and poems from standard college reading lists, as well as conducting research and writing reports on various literary figures and subjects.

To succeed in this course, students should possess proficient to advanced test-taking skills, strong critical thinking abilities, robust reading stamina and fluency, and a solid foundation in English usage, vocabulary, and writing techniques.

Upon course completion, students will be able to:

1. Earn college credit by passing the Advanced Placement Exam.

2. Write college-level compositions and employ a refined vocabulary.

3. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of major literary works and analyze and discuss poems, short stories, plays, essays, or novels.

4. Analyze the structural elements of dramas, poetry, novels, and short stories.

5. Conduct effective research to expand their knowledge base.

6. Write well-structured analytical and expository essays, adhering to the conventions of written English.

7. Analyze and apply literary criticism in their expository and analytical writing.

• Recommended Placement: IEP Team Recommendation

• Credits: 10

Directed English 1 is a special education class, consisting of specialized academic instruction, focused on the essential standards of English 1. Enrollment in this class is based on an IEP team recommendation, and the curricular focus is based on the student’s individual needs (accommodations, modifications, and identified goals) agreed to by the IEP team. 

• Recommended Placement: IEP Team Recommendation

• Credits: 10

Directed English 2 is a special education class, consisting of specialized academic instruction, focused on the essential standards of English 2. Enrollment in this class is based on an IEP team recommendation, and the curricular focus is based on the student’s individual needs (accommodations, modifications, and identified goals) agreed to by the IEP team. 

• Recommended Placement: IEP Team Recommendation

• Credits: 10

Directed English 3 is a special education class, consisting of specialized academic instruction, focused on the essential standards of English 3. Enrollment in this class is based on an IEP team recommendation, and the curricular focus is based on the student’s individual needs (accommodations, modifications, and identified goals) agreed to by the IEP team. 

• Recommended Placement: IEP Team Recommendation

• Credits: 10

Directed English 4 is a special education class, consisting of specialized academic instruction, focused on the essential standards of English 4. Enrollment in this class is based on an IEP team recommendation, and the curricular focus is based on the student’s individual needs (accommodations, modifications, and identified goals) agreed to by the IEP team.

• Recommended Placement: IEP Team Recommendation

• Credits: 10

Practical English is a special education class, consisting of specialized academic instruction, focused on the principles of language: reading, writing, listening, speaking, and language. Students will read novels, short stories, and real-world documents to increase their reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and word analysis skills. Students will learn strategies to improve their written expression structure, coherence, and mechanics. Enrollment in this class is based on an IEP team recommendation, and the curricular focus is based on the student’s individual needs (accommodations, modifications, and identified goals) agreed to by the IEP team. 

• Recommended Placement: IEP Team Recommendation

• Credits: 10

Functional English is a special education class, consisting of specialized academic instruction, developed based on individual needs and IEP goals, and focused on developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills necessary for independent living. Students apply these skills to interpersonal relationships, personal safety, social/occupational situations, travel, health, family, and community living. Students are given the opportunity to read for information and enjoyment. Enrollment in this class is based on an IEP team recommendation, and the curricular focus is based on the student's individual needs (accommodations, modifications, and identified goals) agreed to by the IEP team.

• Recommended Placement: Concurrent with College Prep-English, Open to Grades 9-11 only

• Credits: 10

• College Prep Course 

Students in this course learn about the media as it relates to our society today. The emphasis is on writing news stories, feature stories, sports stories, reviews and editorials. This course is a prerequisite for students desiring to work on the staff of El Vaquero, the school newspaper. Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

1. Defend an editorial point of view.

2. Write feature, sports, opinion, and news stories in proper journalistic form.

3. Conduct an interview for the purpose of obtaining information for a news story.

4. Have a basic understanding of how the mass media impacts society, as well as journalistic trends.

5. Develop understanding of journalistic laws, regulations, and ethics.

6. Read current and classic works of literature to develop an understanding of the range of journalism.

7. Demonstrate an awareness of current events and newsworthy material.

8. Write headlines and captions.

9. Study design trends and create a page layout.

10. Draw cartoons and take photographs.

11. Produce a beginning journalism issue of El Vaquero as a class project.

12. Demonstrate the ability to use primary and secondary sources in research. 

• Recommended Placement: Beg. Journalism & selection process

• Credits: 5 each semester

• College Prep Course 

(For UC/CSU credit, this course may be repeated for a total of 10 credits, any additional credits will be applied to Irvine High School elective credit requirement.)

Students publish El Vaquero, the school newspaper, at regular intervals.

• The class may be repeated.

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

1. Defend an editorial point of view.

2. Produce effective, informative newspaper copy on contemporary issues under deadline pressure.

3. Use effectively the basic journalistic skills relative to news writing, copy-reading, headline construction, proofreading, page-layout and makeup and style limitations.

4. Develop increased sensitivity towards the pressures of writing for publication, which presupposes clear thinking and concise, accurate, objective, forceful and timely writing skills.

5. Demonstrate the ability to use primary and secondary sources of information within a newspaper story.

6. Demonstrate the ability to write in the various journalistic styles including new journalism, reviews, editorials, features, sports, and news stories.

7. Compete in local, state and national writing competitions.

8. Work cooperatively with other students in a team environment.

9. Read contemporary and classic literature including books and periodicals which fall within the domain of journalism.

10. Develop problem-solving and leadership skills.