Write, write, and write some more . . .
Composition is a study and application of the rhetorical (effective) writing strategies of narration, description, exposition, and persuasion. Using the writing process, students demonstrate a command of vocabulary, English language conventions, research and organizational skills, an awareness of the audience, the purpose for writing, and style. Students write a variety of types of compositions with a focus on fictional narratives, reflective compositions, and academic essays.
Course Components
Writers Workshop
In the writing workshop, students and teacher work as nearly like professional writers as possible. They keep journals and write in them regularly. Although the teacher may suggest subjects, students are encouraged to discover their own topics. They write in quantity, keeping individual folders or electronic files of their writings, and revise some writings more extensively than others. Students work in small and large groups, sharing their work and responding to the writing of their peers. Writers write in a variety of forms, present their writings to a variety of audiences, and publish in personal and class collections.
Language Study
Developing a personal writing style and voice is an important component of our course. An understanding of how words, phrases, clauses, and sentences work together to clearly and concisely communicate ideas is the first step. Practice in a variety of sentence combining strategies, varying sentence beginnings and structures, and writing effective sentences is our next step in developing a personal writing style.
PSAT / ECA Test Preparation
The sophomore year brings the first of several high stakes tests: the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) and the ECA (End of Course Assessment). The PSAT is a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT. The test is taken in the sophomore year and then again in the junior year when students can qualify for National Merit Scholarships. The PSAT will be given during the school day on Wednesday, October 15. Leading up to the test in October, we will complete daily practice questions, as well as, practice tests.
The ECA is the state test to measure student achievement in English 10. The text is given in May and, along with the Algebra 1 ECA, is the graduation qualifying exam. At three points during the year - fall, winter, and spring - students take an Acuity assessment to predict success on the ECA in May. We will also use a variety of practice items, Achieve 3000, and TeenTribune to further strengthen students' skills.
The ECA is the state test to measure student achievement in English 10. The text is given in May and, along with the Algebra 1 ECA, is the graduation qualifying exam. At three points during the year - fall, winter, and spring - students take an Acuity assessment to predict success on the ECA in May. We will also use a variety of practice items, Achieve 3000, and TeenTribune to further strengthen students' skills.