English 10
Course Objectives:
Upon completion of this course,
the student will have gained the ability to
1. Use written language as an organized form of
communication;
2. Combine sentences efficiently using a variety of
styles;
3. Identify errors in punctuation and avoid them in
his/her own writing;
4. Identify errors in usage and avoid them in
his/her own writing and speaking;
5. Develop paragraphs around a topic sentence,
using a variety of methods;
6. Critically edit the writing of his/her peers;
7. Write a well organized and carefully thought-out
long composition;
8. Show consistent improvement in vocabulary and
spelling skills;
9. Research, organize, and present a four to five
minute persuasive speech;
10. Analyze and interpret the short story;
11. Appreciate both lyric and narrative poetry and
identify themes as well as poetic devices;
12. Understand and gain an appreciation for
Shakespearean drama;
13. Appreciate the complexities and thematic value
in the modern novel;
14. Identify
and analyze modern dramatic techniques, follow stage directions, and play the
role of a fictional character;
15. Respond to literature in writing;
16. Experience an increased enjoyment of
independent reading and respond to it both orally and in writing.
Course Description:
Two Semesters.
Texts: Traditions
in Literature (Scott Foresman)
Composition Improvement (Scott Foresman)
The study of literature includes the short story, lyric and narrative poetry, Julius Caesar, Out Town, Twelve Angry Men, Master and Man, and The Pearl (among other works). Students will review the basic components of the short story as well as learning to recognize mood, tone, stereotype, satire, irony, symbol, imagery, and figurative language. They will also study poetic devices such as alliteration, rhythm, rhyme scheme, and sound devices. Students will keep a journal in which they will be encourages to record their personal reactions to literary selections and to relate those selections to life experiences. They will also be assigned papers in response to readings.
The course includes independent reading requirements as well as oral and written book reports. A speech unit will focus primarily on the persuasive speech and will address critical listening skills as well as organization and presentation. Students will work on spelling skills during the first semester. Vocabulary development will be emphasized both semester.
Composition improvement study includes a review of grammar, usage, and the mechanics of punctuation. Special emphasis is placed on sentence combining as well as on organizing effective paragraphs and longer compositions.