We expect our students to:

• Learn to read critically.
• Be able to write clearly and creatively.
• Develop effective speaking skills.
• Comprehend and evaluate literal and implied meaning in multiple forms of expression and media (e.g. written, oral, multimedia).

English 6

Students read selected literature in several genres, including novels, short fiction, traditional literature, nonfiction, and poetry. Students learn reading strategies to enhance their comprehension. They develop their writing skills in the following genres: argument writing, literature response and analysis, narrative writing, and expository writing. They learn strategies for planning and organizing their writing, editing and revising their work. Listening and speaking strategies are emphasized during class discussions and oral presentations.

English 7

Students read a variety of texts, including novels, short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students learn reading strategies and develop their writing skills in the following genres: argument writing, literature response and analysis, narrative writing, and expository writing. Vocabulary study focuses on academic language and Greek and Latin roots. Listening and speaking strategies, including collegial discussion techniques, are emphasized during class discussions and oral presentations.

English 8

Students read a variety of texts, including novels, short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students learn reading strategies and develop their writing skills in the following genres: argument writing, literature response and analysis, narrative writing, reflective writing, expository writing, and poetry. Vocabulary study focuses academic language and the history and origins of the English language. Listening and speaking strategies, including collegial discussion techniques, are emphasized during class discussions, oral presentations, and Socratic seminars.

English 9

In this class, you’ll learn to use language as an artistic and social tool. You will be challenged to examine your community and beliefs, and grow as a reader, writer, and thinker. We’ll be exploring many things about our world, especially how people use language to influence others and tell the human story. It will be difficult, but it will also be fun. Welcome to the journey!

English 10

Students read a variety of texts, including novels, short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students learn reading strategies and develop their writing skills in the following genres: argument writing, literature response and analysis, narrative writing, reflective writing, expository writing, and poetry. Vocabulary study focuses academic language and the history and origins of the English language. Listening and speaking strategies, including collegial discussion techniques, are emphasized during class discussions, oral presentations, and Socratic seminars.

English 12

Students read a variety of texts, including novels, short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students learn reading strategies and develop their writing skills in the following genres: argument writing, literature response and analysis, narrative writing, reflective writing, expository writing, and poetry. Vocabulary study focuses academic language and the history and origins of the English language. Listening and speaking strategies, including collegial discussion techniques, are emphasized during class discussions, oral presentations, and Socratic seminars.

English III

In keeping with OSA’s tradition of high academic standards, this course engages students with classic literary texts in order to prepare you for the English Literature course offered senior year and in college. Through our study of these works, which are representative of every genre, you will learn how sophisticated readers use analysis to develop a deeper understanding of the text.

Honors English 12

Students read a variety of texts, including novels, short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students learn reading strategies and develop their writing skills in the following genres: argument writing, literature response and analysis, narrative writing, reflective writing, expository writing, and poetry. Vocabulary study focuses academic language and the history and origins of the English language. Listening and speaking strategies, including collegial discussion techniques, are emphasized during class discussions, oral presentations, and Socratic seminars.

Elective: Creative Writing 

Students read a variety of texts, including novels, short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students learn reading strategies and develop their writing skills in the following genres: argument writing, literature response and analysis, narrative writing, reflective writing, expository writing, and poetry. Vocabulary study focuses academic language and the history and origins of the English language. Listening and speaking strategies, including collegial discussion techniques, are emphasized during class discussions, oral presentations, and Socratic seminars.