The goal and purpose of English 1 is to equip students with essential skills in the areas of communication, reading, and writing. Students will learn to use critical thinking skills to analyze a variety of texts. Students will communicate their analysis through collaborative discussions, presentations, and academic written responses. Quarterly Essential Learning Outcomes (ELO’s) will build upon each other as a foundation for the work that will continue to grow in complexity throughout the school year, and will continue into English courses Sophomore through Senior year. Texts will be chosen that will allow students to think about themselves and the world around them.
Essential Learning Outcomes (ELOs):
The California State Common Core Standards* (ELOs) have been individually selected based on their importance for students' future success:
Reading RI 9.1
Reading RL 9.1
Writing W 9.1
Writing W 9.2
Writing W 9.3
Writing W 9.4
Speaking and Listening SL 9.1
Speaking and Listening SL 9.4
*For a description of these standards, visit the Common Core website.
The Humanities Academy is a program that allows students to take humanities courses (English, History, Spanish) in an academy setting. The goals of the Academy are to create close connections between students, teachers, parents, and the community; to give students more consistency in expectations and continuity in curriculum; and to use performance as a basis for assessment and evaluation. The Humanities Academy focuses on the acquisition of cultural knowledge, values,and wisdom essential for the well-rounded individual in the 21st century.
In Humanities, freshmen take English 1 and have the option of Spanish 1. Humanities requires two consecutive years of Spanish at some point over four years.
This program is rigorous, but is not just for college bound students. It was created for self-directed students who are serious about their education and who want some flexibility in their daily schedule and course work.