English 9

The ninth grade English curriculum builds upon the literature interests and language skills developed in the Middle School, supplying the foundation for more sophisticated demands of the 10th, 11th and 12th grade programs. Designed around a study of literature, the ninth-grade course works to develop students’ good reading habits, critical thinking skills, and effective expression in their creative and analytical writing. Guided vocabulary and grammar instruction enhances writing fluency and mechanics. Students continue to develop their writing skills in a process approach, learning to express their own insights effectively. Literature studied may include Persepolis, Romeo and Juliet, Catcher in the Rye, and Girl in Translation, as well as selected short stories and poems. This course embraces a workshop approach to writing, an approach which emphasizes extensive revising and editing. Also available in Honors with department approval.