English 9

The language A Language and Literature course aims to develop skills of textual analysis and the understanding that texts, both literary and nonliterary, can be seen as autonomous yet simultaneously related to culturally determined reading practices. The course is flexible—constructed to reflect the interests and concerns that are relevant to learners while learners develop a range of transferable skills.

The language A Language and Literature course aims to develop skills of textual analysis and the understanding that texts, both literary and nonliterary, can be seen as autonomous yet simultaneously related to culturally determined reading practices. The course is flexible—constructed to reflect the interests and concerns that are relevant to learners while learners develop a range of transferable skills. An understanding of the ways in which formal elements are used to create meaning in a text is combined with an exploration of how that meaning is affected by reading practices that are culturally defined and by the circumstances of production and reception. A wider aim of the course is the development of an understanding of “critical literacy” in learners. The basis for the framework and content of this course are the current and latest  2013 Common Core English Language Arts Standards.  In addition, the design and purpose of IB is partnered with the intrinsically motivational and experiential aspects of Project-Based learning.  This framework and deeply philosophical approach to learning is a unique and effective approach to the learner-centered instruction happening at SCVi.

English 12 is a comprehensive, chronological literature and writing course that introduces materials from the ancient world into the modern age. Students will create a variety of fiction and non-fiction documents and texts that help to prepare students for college and career readiness. Each unit and its correlating assignments are designed to slowly increase in complexity as skills are introduced and built on top of one another. The course is built to mirror Bloom’s Taxonomy in the progression of skills in each unit. Students will develop grade level appropriate reading skills, writing skills and speaking skills. During this course, students will also exercise and further a number of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. An important focus will be on using language with precision and clarity and developing greater control in writing. The course is intended to prepare students for college or the workplace. The purpose of English 12 course is to engage students in functional literacy and technical writing. Both MLA and APA styles will be explored and assessed in this course. In addition, students are immersed in a chronological and critical study of the English language and the evolution of literary forms. Students will focus on classic European and American literature, identifying differences in perception and interpretation. Students are also expected to analyze and evaluate pertinent themes and topics aligned to the greater goals of European and American social study. Students use literary interpretation, analysis, comparisons, and evaluation to read and respond to representative works of historical or cultural significance. All Content is aligned with the Common Core Standards for English (11-12th grade).

English 11, students examine a variety of texts and create a range of documents. This course is focused on the development of grade-level appropriate reading, writing, speaking and listening skills through engaging, enriching and practical literature activities, projects and lessons.


This course covers examples of drama, poetry, prose, novel, informational texts and other media to help students achieve an appropriate level within the complexity band. Studied authors include but are not limited to Plato, Wollstonecraft, Blake Wordsworth, Wilde, Locke, Swift, Tennyson, Shakespeare, Sophocles, Orwell, Jackson, Poe, London, Huxley and Chaucer. The texts in this course cover a wide margin of chronological contexts ranging from the golden age to post modern dystopia. This course introduces engaging topics including themes relevant to the American Experience and relevant historical contexts.


Learners extend text beyond the literal interpretive level. Learners engage in active listening. Learners speak and read appropriately in a given context. Learners read a minimum of 25 novels and documents while developing a summative digital portfolio.

In English 10 students continue to develop and refine essential skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Through the study of core works of literature, nonfiction, supplementary and technical texts, students will develop proficiency in reading for a variety of purposes. By interpreting and creating texts in response to the literature, students will come to understand, participate in, and contribute to a common literary heritage. Students will learn to analyze texts from the world of literature and the real-life world (such as newspapers, journals, and essays) and cogently express applications to their own lives through writing and speaking. By applying and generating technical texts, students will develop competencies that will prepare them for life in the workplace. Additionally, they will exercise and refine their abilities to speak to different audiences for a variety of purposes. The difference between English 10 and previous and subsequent English courses lies in the length, complexity, sophistication, and range of source materials.

This English course is designed to satisfy the standards and prepare students for college. This course continues to build students’ grammar skills and oral and written communication skills. It also introduces students to different literary forms, short stories, folklore and fairy tales, drama, historical literature, speeches, novels, fiction, nonfiction, and plays, to read and analyze. Through directed reading and writing assignments, work will focus on expanding vocabulary, mechanics of language, punctuation, analyzing by literature evaluating patterns and connection within the literature presented, utilizing various presentation methods (power point, posters, newspapers, speeches, memorizations), and increasing writing skills through various narrative, expository, persuasive, and descriptive essay assignments, using organization, research, drafting, editing, and revising.

The course will pursue the following areas of concentration: Writing Domains- analytical, persuasive, creative and informative, with a focus on planning and drafting.  The formats will include commentary, expository essay, short story, poetry, pastiche, report and reviews. Oral Work will consist of  group discussion, speech, oral commentaries, dramatic readings and formal presentation.