English IV  
This course covers poetry, short stories, drama, and the novel as presented in the Spring Board curriculum.  Group work is required. Writing skills covered will include advanced composition and literary analysis. Each student will receive a workbook to complete activities/groupwork as we go through each unit (see below).

 

The Spring Board Senior English program is divided into four cohesive units focused on changing perceptions and perspectives. The program creates a student-centered classroom for attaining the knowledge and skills required for college and workforce communication.  

Academic discussion is vital to success of our course. Please conduct all discussion politely and academically—respect is key to any discussion. Also, at times, some of your peers may have strong opinions about certain topics. Please respect their right to opinion and respond cordially.

 

SEMESTER ONE

Spring Board Unit 1--Perception is Everything

**How do writers and artists organize or construct text to convey meaning?

**What does it mean to be a stranger in the village?

(Students will read 1984)

   

Spring Board Unit 2--The Collective Perspective (Pygmalion--drama/play)

**How does applying a critical perpective affect an understanding of a text?

**How does a new understanding of a text help or hinder your enjoyment of it?

 

SEMESTER TWO 

Spring Board Unit 3--Evolving Perspectives (Othello--drama/play)

**How can a dramatic performance reflect a critical perspective?

**What role does literature play in the examination of recurring societal issues?

(Students may read Tuesdays with Morrie for free online, use a classroom copy, or get their own copy)

 

***Research Paper required

 

 Spring Board Unit 4--Bias in News Reports

**Examine how an issue is presented in media texts

**Present an argument