English 11

In English 11, students examine the belief systems, events, and literature that have shaped the United States. Starting with the Declaration of Independence, students explore how the greatest American literature tells the stories of individuals who have struggled for independence and freedom: freedom of self, freedom of thought, freedom of home and country. Students reflect on the role of the individual in Romantic and Transcendentalist literature that considers the relationship between citizens and government. Students question whether the American Dream is still achievable while examining Modernist disillusionment with American idealism. By reading the words of Frederick Douglass and other pioneers of civil rights, students look carefully at the experience of minorities and their struggle to achieve equality. Finally, students reflect on how individuals cope with the influence of war, cultural tensions, and technology in the midst of trying to build and secure their own personal identity.

English 11 supports all students in developing the depth of understanding and higher order skills required by the state standards. Students break down increasingly complex readings with close reading tools, guided instruction, and robust scaffolding as they apply each of the lesson's concepts back to its anchor text. Students build their writing and speaking skills in journal responses, discussions, frequent free response exercises, and written assignments and presentations, learning to communicate clearly and credibly in literary, argumentative, and informational styles.

This course is built to state standards.