English
Relevant, Intellectually Stimulating, and Engaging
Throughout all years, high school English courses aim to improve students’ communication skills, both written and oral.
“Students are encouraged to think critically, express their ideas effectively, and appreciate the rich diversity of literary traditions.”
Our English program is a student-centered English Language Arts program that embraces culturally responsive learning through diverse representation of literature, authors, characters, cultures, and themes. The program uniquely provides many opportunities for students to use their voices as they share their lived experiences, allows them to make choices in their learning, and gives them the opportunity to ask critical questions of the texts, the teacher, and each other. (SLC, 2022)
The courses often incorporate discussions, group activities, and multimedia resources to enhance the learning experience, fostering a deep appreciation for literature and language.
*Each year, students will take their grade level English course.
Course descriptions are subject to refinement as part of the school’s formal course catalog.
Grade 9 English Language Arts introduces students to high school–level reading, writing, speaking, and language study through a thematically organized curriculum. Students engage with a range of literary and informational texts, including short stories, novels, poetry, drama, and nonfiction, while developing foundational skills in close reading, textual analysis, and evidence-based writing. Emphasis is placed on building academic vocabulary, sentence fluency, and structured writing, as well as participating in collaborative discussions and presentations. By the end of the course, students demonstrate growing independence in reading complex texts and expressing ideas clearly and thoughtfully.
Grade 10 English Language Arts builds on foundational literacy skills by deepening students’ ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate complex texts across genres. Students examine literature and nonfiction through essential questions that encourage critical thinking, perspective-taking, and thematic connections. Writing instruction emphasizes analytical and argumentative composition, with increasing attention to organization, voice, and use of textual evidence. Students also strengthen speaking and listening skills through structured discussions and presentations. The course prepares students for more advanced literary study by fostering analytical precision and sustained engagement with texts.
Grade 11 English Language Arts focuses on advanced reading, writing, and research skills through the study of American literature and foundational informational texts. Students analyze how historical, cultural, and rhetorical contexts shape texts while refining their ability to construct nuanced arguments supported by evidence. Writing assignments emphasize analytical, argumentative, and research-based writing, with attention to clarity, coherence, and style. Students engage in critical discussions, comparative analysis, and independent inquiry, developing the academic literacy skills necessary for college-level coursework.
Grade 12 English Language Arts offers a culminating literacy experience that prepares students for postsecondary study and professional communication. Students engage with world literature, contemporary texts, and advanced nonfiction, focusing on rhetorical analysis, thematic interpretation, and synthesis of ideas across texts. Writing instruction emphasizes sophisticated argumentation, research, and reflective writing, with attention to purpose, audience, and style. Students are expected to demonstrate independence as readers and writers, applying advanced literacy skills in sustained projects and discussions that reflect college and career readiness.
Campbell Hall School for Girls® 