American Literature & Composition A Description

American Literature & Composition is a survey literature and writing course that explores canonical works of American literature through the lens of both being image-bearers of Christ and recognizing others as image-bearers. The course will examine a variety of primary and secondary source materials, novels, essays and poetry. Students will focus on developing composition skills to develop their writing at the high school level and prepare them for future courses and the college preparatory course Writing for College. Students will learn to think critically about the texts they read, form cogent arguments and observations with textual evidence, and articulate interpretive conclusions. This course will equip students to analyze, synthesize, evaluate, and compare texts though lectures, discussion, reading, writing, and presentations. Scripture and a biblical worldview will be at the foundation of the course and will inform how we approach each and every work. Students will be expected to perform at the 10-12 th grade high school level; therefore, they should demonstrate diligence in all course work, reading, and discussion. Participation and attendance will be imperative to understanding the literature and assignments covered in this course. Students should expect to spend approximately three hours a week on homework assignments (more time may be necessary when reading longer novels or preparing formal essays, less time will be required during poetry units). Students will write five major essays: 1) Analysis 2) Compare & Contrast 3) Research 4) Persuasive 5) Reflection.

Textbooks and Supplies

TBA

Prerequisites

Successful completion of KEYS HS Writing I and/or II or by permission of the instructor. If students are NOT CURRENTLY ENROLLED in a KEYS Math or English class, we require Placement Evaluations to be sure they are placed at the best level to help them be successful in the coming year. Please contact the office to schedule an evaluation prior to class selection.

Class Information

Parents are responsible for purchasing all textbooks and supplies before the first day of class.

Supply fees are due to each teacher on the first day of class. This fee covers materials, lab supplies, and other expenses incurred by the teacher. They are a one-time fee.

Please note the grade level for this class. Students younger than the recommended grade levels need special permission before signing up for the class. Please contact the office for more information.

What happens if a class is full? You may email administration@keysofva.org to be waitlisted.