English Language Arts

This course provides specially designed instruction aligned to 7th grade English Language Arts standards to support students with identified learning needs. Instruction focuses on developing reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language skills through differentiated, scaffolded, and individualized approaches.

Students will engage with a variety of texts to build comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills while practicing writing for different purposes and audiences. Emphasis is placed on foundational literacy skills, grammar and language conventions, and effective communication.

This course provides specially designed instruction aligned to 8th grade English Language Arts standards to support students with identified learning needs. Instruction emphasizes reading comprehension, written expression, speaking and listening skills, and language development through differentiated, scaffolded, and individualized instruction.

Students will engage with a range of literary and informational texts to strengthen critical thinking, vocabulary, and comprehension skills while developing clear and organized writing. Instruction also focuses on grammar, language conventions, and effective communication strategies. Course content and instructional methods are tailored to support student goals, promoting academic growth, independence, and readiness for high school-level English Language Arts.

PACE: English Language Arts I is designed to introduce students to the foundational skills of reading and writing. The course places strong emphasis on basic sentence structure, writing mechanics, vocabulary development, phonics skills, and making meaningful connections to text. Key areas of focus include phonemic awareness, matching spoken and written language, and developing comprehension through text connections.

Students will also be introduced to the fundamentals of written expression in a supportive, structured environment. Instruction is individualized and adapted to meet specific student needs, with course content modified to align with students' goals.

PACE: English Language Arts II builds upon the foundational reading and writing skills introduced in PACE: English Language Arts I. The course continues to emphasize sentence structure, writing mechanics, vocabulary development, and phonics while increasing focus on reading comprehension and written expression. Students will strengthen their ability to make connections to text, understand meaning, and apply language skills in more complex contexts.

Instruction supports the continued development of phonemic awareness, alignment of spoken and written language, and comprehension strategies in a structured and supportive learning environment. Course content is individualized and adapted to address specific student needs, with instruction aligned to student goals.

PACE: English Language Arts III builds upon previously developed reading and writing skills with an increased emphasis on comprehension, communication, and functional literacy. Students will continue to strengthen sentence structure, writing mechanics, vocabulary, and phonics skills while applying these skills to more complex texts and real-world communication tasks.

Instruction focuses on improving reading comprehension, making meaningful connections to text, and expanding written expression through structured, supported activities. Students will practice expressing ideas clearly in both written and spoken formats. Course content is individualized and adapted to meet specific student needs.

PACE: English Language Arts IV is designed to extend and refine students’ reading, writing, and communication skills with an emphasis on independence, comprehension, and functional application. Students will apply previously learned literacy skills to increasingly complex texts and real-world communication tasks.

Instruction focuses on strengthening reading comprehension, written expression, vocabulary usage, and effective communication in academic and everyday contexts. Students will practice organizing ideas, responding to text, and expressing themselves clearly and appropriately. Course content is individualized and adapted to address specific student needs, with instruction aligned to students' goals.

In this course, students will strengthen their skills in reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking. Students will further develop their understanding of mechanics, grammar, and sentence structure through purposeful writing tasks and practice. Instruction will focus on argumentative writing, narrative writing, and research-based writing, guiding students in how to generate, organize, and communicate ideas effectively.

Students will also read and analyze a variety of literary and informational texts, deepening their ability to identify themes, evaluate evidence, and understand author’s craft. Through discussions, projects, and written responses, students will build confidence in expressing their ideas clearly and thoughtfully.

This course prepares students for the rigorous reading and writing expectations of junior high school and high school English coursework.

Advanced 7th Grade English Language Arts is an on-level course that takes a deeper, more rigorous dive into grade-level concepts for students who are ready for additional challenge. This course provides enrichment opportunities while maintaining alignment with 7th grade standards, offering students more complex texts, extended writing tasks, and deeper analysis.

Students will strengthen their understanding of grammar, mechanics, and sentence structure through purposeful practice and application in advanced writing assignments. The course emphasizes argumentative writing, narrative development, and research-based writing, guiding students to expand their ideas, incorporate evidence effectively, and refine their writing with clarity and purpose.

Students will also engage with a variety of literary and informational texts, exploring themes, author’s craft, and structural techniques with greater depth than the traditional course. Class discussions, collaborative activities, and independent projects encourage critical thinking and academic discourse.

This course is ideal for students who enjoy reading and writing and are motivated to explore English Language Arts concepts more thoroughly in preparation for future advanced coursework.

This on-level course invites students to explore a wide range of literary and informational texts while developing their analytical and critical thinking skills. Through reading, class discussions, and written responses, students will strengthen their understanding of author’s craft, text structure, and the use of evidence in text analysis.

Students will engage in narrative, argumentative, and informational writing, learning to express ideas clearly, support claims effectively, and refine their writing through revision and editing. The course also incorporates speaking and listening activities that build confidence in communication, collaboration, and presentation skills.

By the end of the year, students will be well-prepared for the expectations of high school English coursework and continued growth in reading and writing.

In this advanced course, students will engage with a diverse selection of literary and informational texts while further developing their analytical and critical thinking skills. Texts and assignments will require deeper interpretation, more complex reasoning, and stronger connections across ideas.

Students will refine their abilities in narrative, argumentative, and informational writing, with an emphasis on clear reasoning, precise language, and well-supported evidence. Speaking and listening activities will strengthen students’ ability to engage in academic conversations, present ideas with confidence, and collaborate effectively.

This course includes an intensive focus on higher-order questioning, evidence-based writing, close reading, and textual analysis. Students will be expected to think critically, participate actively, and approach content with academic depth.

Advanced 8th Grade English Language Arts prepares students for advanced course pathways in high school coursework and is ideal for learners who enjoy challenge, inquiry, and deeper exploration of reading and writing concepts.

English I introduces students to foundational high school English skills through the study of literary and informational texts, writing, speaking, and critical thinking. Students will read a variety of genres including fiction, nonfiction, drama, and poetry, while learning to analyze how authors develop themes, structure their work, and use literary techniques to convey meaning.

Students will practice narrative, argumentative, and informational writing, with a strong emphasis on developing clear thesis statements, organizing ideas effectively, and using textual evidence to support claims. Grammar, vocabulary, and language conventions will be taught in connection with writing to strengthen clarity and accuracy.

Speaking and listening activities will promote academic discussion, collaborative learning, and effective communication skills. Throughout the course, students will learn strategies for close reading, annotation, research, and analysis that prepare them for success in future English courses.

English I builds a strong foundation for high school literacy expectations and supports students in becoming thoughtful, confident readers and writers.

Pre-AP English I is designed to prepare students for advanced high school English coursework by strengthening their skills in close reading, analytical writing, and critical thinking. This course emphasizes the essential practices that support success in AP and college-level classes, including careful observation of texts, deep analysis, and clear, evidence-based communication.

Students will study a variety of challenging literary and informational texts, examining how authors develop ideas, build arguments, and use literary techniques to shape meaning. Through guided practice, students will learn to identify patterns, analyze author’s craft, and respond to text-based questions with precision.

Writing instruction focuses on analytical, argumentative, and narrative writing, with special attention to crafting strong thesis statements, integrating textual evidence, and refining style through revision. Students will practice using academic vocabulary and grammar structures that enhance clarity and sophistication.

Class activities will include structured academic conversations, discussions, and collaborative tasks that encourage deeper thinking and engagement with complex ideas.

Pre-AP English I lays the foundation for future honors and AP English courses and is ideal for students who are motivated, curious, and ready for a more rigorous exploration of reading and writing.

English II builds on the skills developed in English I, guiding students to advance their abilities in reading, writing, language, speaking, and listening. The course is organized into units that strengthen each of these areas through connected, meaningful learning experiences.

Students will read a variety of classic and contemporary literature, as well as informational and nonfiction texts, to deepen their understanding of theme, structure, literary devices, and author’s craft. Writing instruction will include multiple purposes and audiences, helping students develop stronger narrative, argumentative, and informational compositions.

Throughout the course, students will continue to build their knowledge of English grammar, mechanics, and vocabulary, applying these skills to improve clarity and precision in their writing.

Students will be expected to participate actively in discussions, group work, and peer feedback sessions, contributing to a classroom environment that values critical thinking, communication, and shared learning.

English II prepares students for the increased rigor of upper-level English courses by strengthening foundational skills and encouraging confident, thoughtful engagement with complex texts and ideas.

Pre-AP English II builds on the foundations developed in earlier advanced English courses and prepares students for the rigor of AP-level coursework. This class emphasizes close reading, analytical writing, academic discussion, and evidence-based reasoning across a range of complex literary and informational texts.

Students will examine how authors craft meaning through structure, language, style, and rhetorical choices. Texts will include fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama, allowing students to explore diverse genres and perspectives. Students will be expected to analyze patterns, evaluate arguments, and make connections across texts and ideas.

Writing instruction centers on analytical and argumentative essays, with an emphasis on crafting clear thesis statements, using precise textual evidence, and refining coherence and style. Students will also practice narrative and rhetorical writing to deepen their understanding of how writers shape meaning.

Classwork will include academic conversations, collaborative analysis, and structured discussions that encourage students to articulate ideas clearly and respond thoughtfully to peers.

Pre-AP English II provides a strong foundation for AP Language and Composition, AP Literature and Composition, and other upper-level English courses. It is well-suited for students who are motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to engage deeply with challenging texts and advanced writing tasks.

AP Seminar is a foundational course in the College Board’s AP Capstone program, designed to develop students’ skills in research, analysis, argumentation, and collaborative problem-solving. In this course, students investigate real-world issues from multiple perspectives, analyze complex texts, and craft evidence-based arguments.

Students will learn to evaluate sources for credibility, synthesize information across texts, and communicate their findings through both written essays and multimedia presentations. The course emphasizes questioning, critical thinking, and the ability to view issues through interdisciplinary lenses.

Key components of AP Seminar include:

• The Individual Research-Based Essay and Presentation
• The Team Project and Presentation
• The AP Seminar Exam, which includes analysis of written arguments and synthesis of information from stimulus materials

Students will engage in frequent academic discussions, peer reviews, and collaborative work, all of which strengthen communication, research, and reasoning skills essential for college readiness.

AP Seminar is ideal for students who thrive on inquiry, enjoy exploring complex global and local issues, and are preparing for advanced academic pathways, including AP Research and college-level coursework.

English III progresses students’ competence in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language mechanics as they prepare for the academic demands of upper-level coursework and postsecondary pathways. Students engage with a variety of American literature and a range of nonfiction texts at or above grade level, exploring how historical, cultural, and thematic elements shape an author’s purpose and style.

The course places a strong emphasis on research skills and academic writing. Students will learn to gather, evaluate, and synthesize information from multiple credible sources, developing polished argumentative and analytical essays. Instruction in grammar, vocabulary, and language conventions supports clear and effective communication.

Collaborative learning is central to English III. Students participate in whole-group discussions, small-group activities, and individualized instruction, accommodating diverse learning styles and encouraging active engagement with texts. Speaking and listening opportunities help students develop confidence in presenting ideas and engaging in academic conversations.

Critical thinking remains a core focus as students analyze texts, make inferences, and respond thoughtfully through writing and discussion. Additionally, targeted skill development in reading comprehension, analysis, and writing mechanics helps prepare students for success on the ACT.

AP Literature and Composition is an introductory college-level course that immerses students in the close, analytical study of American and world literature. Students explore a wide range of literary works—including poetry, prose, novels, and plays—to develop a sophisticated understanding of how writers use structure, style, and literary elements to create meaning.

Throughout the course, students practice advanced literary analysis through reading, discussion, and frequent writing. A strong emphasis is placed on analytical composition, particularly crafting well-supported, insightful essays that demonstrate deep engagement with texts. Students will also complete on-demand writing in timed settings to build confidence and proficiency in preparation for the AP Exam.

Class discussions encourage students to interpret complex themes, analyze authorial choices, and consider multiple perspectives. Students will refine their use of academic vocabulary, strengthen their command of evidence-based argumentation, and improve their ability to write with clarity and precision.

AP Literature and Composition prepares students for success on the AP Exam and offers an excellent foundation for college-level humanities, literature, and writing courses. It is ideal for students who enjoy reading challenging literature, engaging in rich discussion, and exploring the deeper layers of textual meaning.

Dual Credit English Composition I is a freshman-level writing course designed to prepare students for the expectations of college-level academic writing. The primary aim of this course is to provide students with instruction and practice in crafting mechanically correct, well-organized, and well-developed expository essays on topics of significance and relevance.

Students will learn to write with clarity and purpose as they develop skills in thesis construction, logical organization, paragraph development, revision, and editing. Emphasis is placed on effective use of evidence, precise language, and strong control of grammar and mechanics. Students will engage in a variety of writing tasks, including analytical, explanatory, and argumentative compositions.

In addition to writing, students will practice close reading, critical thinking, and research skills that strengthen their ability to analyze texts and support claims appropriately. Regular feedback, peer review, and revision cycles will help students refine their writing and prepare for the rigors of postsecondary coursework.

Students who meet eligibility requirements will earn college credit through the district’s higher education partner while simultaneously fulfilling their 11th-grade English requirement.

Dual Credit English Composition is ideal for students planning to pursue college degrees and seeking an academically challenging English experience.

Dual Credit English Composition II builds upon the skills developed in English Composition I, guiding students toward greater sophistication in academic writing. This course focuses on producing clear, effective expository prose while advancing students’ understanding of more complex methods of thesis development, argumentation, and analytical thinking.

Students will deepen their ability to construct and defend arguments, integrate research effectively, and write with precision and clarity. Instruction emphasizes the processes of research, source evaluation, documentation, and citation, helping students develop the skills necessary for writing in college-level courses and across academic disciplines.

Throughout the semester, students will complete a variety of assignments that require critical reading, synthesis of ideas, and polished written communication. Peer review, revision, and instructor feedback will support students in refining the structure, style, and effectiveness of their writing.

Students who meet eligibility requirements will earn college credit through the district’s higher education partner while fulfilling their second-semester junior English requirement.

Dual Credit English Composition II is ideal for students pursuing college pathways and seeking to strengthen their academic writing, research skills, and readiness for advanced postsecondary coursework.

English IV extends students’ research, analysis, and writing skills through the study of world literature, emphasizing how texts reflect and shape the historical and cultural contexts in which they were created. Students will explore a variety of genres—including poetry, drama, novels, and nonfiction—to build connections across global perspectives and literary traditions.

Instruction will incorporate both whole-group and small-group learning, encouraging collaboration, discussion, and deeper engagement with complex texts. Students will analyze themes, author’s craft, rhetorical choices, and stylistic techniques while refining their ability to interpret and evaluate literature.

Writing instruction focuses on narrative, expository, and argumentative modes, guiding students to produce clear, well-organized, and well-supported compositions. Students will also complete research-based assignments that strengthen their academic writing and critical thinking skills.

A key component of the course is preparing seniors for postsecondary literacy expectations. Students will improve their reading and writing skills while having opportunities to explore books from recommended college reading lists, supporting their transition to college or career pathways.

English IV provides a culminating high school English experience, equipping students with the skills needed for future academic success, effective communication, and informed engagement with the world.

College Board Advanced Placement Course

AP Language and Composition is an introductory college-level English course designed for juniors. Students will focus on the development and revision of evidence-based analytic and argumentative writing, the rhetorical analysis of nonfiction texts, and the decisions writers make as they compose and revise. Throughout the course, students will evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to craft and support their written arguments.

Students will read and analyze rhetorical elements and their effects in a wide variety of nonfiction texts—including images as forms of text—drawn from multiple disciplines and historical periods. Emphasis is placed on understanding how authors use rhetorical strategies, structure, and language to convey meaning and influence audiences.

Through frequent writing practice, collaborative discussions, and close-reading activities, students will refine their ability to construct well-reasoned arguments, analyze complex ideas, and communicate effectively. Additionally, on-demand and timed writing tasks will help prepare students for the rigor of the AP Exam.

AP Language and Composition provides a strong foundation for college-level reading, writing, and critical thinking and is ideal for students who enjoy examining how language shapes ideas and arguments.

Crowder College Dual Credit Introduction to Literature is a one-semester college-level course that emphasizes the enjoyment, appreciation, and understanding of major literary forms. Students will study a variety of poetry, drama, and fiction, exploring how authors use language, structure, and literary techniques to convey meaning and evoke emotional and intellectual responses.

The course encourages students to read deeply, think critically, and engage in thoughtful discussions about literature from different genres, time periods, and cultural perspectives. Emphasis is placed on interpretation, analysis, and developing an appreciation for the craft of writing.

This course partially fulfills general education humanities requirements for Crowder College and provides students the opportunity to earn dual credit while completing high school English requirements. Because it is only one semester long, students must take an additional one-semester English course during the academic year to meet the full English credit requirement.

Introduction to Literature is ideal for students who enjoy reading, discussing, and analyzing literary works and who wish to experience the rigor and rewards of college-level coursework.

Technical Writing introduces students to the practical aspects of preparing business and industrial documents used in professional and technical settings. This course emphasizes clear, accurate, and effective communication for a variety of audiences and purposes.

Students will learn techniques for collecting, organizing, and presenting data through quality written and oral communication. Instruction includes creating formal and informal reports, technical documents, demonstrations, and professional presentations, along with participation in structured discussions.

Through real-world applications and project-based learning, students will develop skills in clarity, organization, and audience awareness that are essential for workplace communication.

Yearbook is a hands-on, production-based course focused on the creation and publication of the school’s annual yearbook. Students will develop skills in photography, journalistic writing, graphic design, layout, and marketing, while contributing to a professional-quality publication that captures the school year.

Throughout the course, students will also strengthen essential workplace skills, including time management, collaboration, leadership, and communication. Because yearbook production requires consistent work beyond the classroom, students will be expected to attend school events, take photographs, conduct interviews, and complete assigned yearbook spreads. All deadlines are firm, mirroring real-world publication expectations.

Given the collaborative and sequential nature of yearbook production, students may not transfer into the class at semester without special permission from the instructor. Additionally, students who do not meet the expectations and demands of the course may be removed at the instructor’s discretion to ensure project completion and publication quality.

This course may be taken for multiple years, allowing students to deepen their skills and take on increasing leadership within the yearbook staff.

World Literature I is a survey course that introduces students to major works of world literature with an emphasis on texts outside the British and American literary traditions. Through selected readings from Greek and Roman literature—including epics, dramas, and mythology—students explore foundational themes, cultural values, and literary forms that have shaped global storytelling. The course also includes influential works such as The Divine Comedy, Don Quixote, and other significant texts, helping students develop skills in literary analysis, critical reading, and written interpretation while gaining a broader understanding of world cultures and literary history.