ACS Literature Philosophy

We believe the study of literature is valuable because through it we can understand and evaluate in light of scripture and a biblical worldview the identities, histories, and values of humanity.  The literature curriculum at Aurora Christian School reflects this philosophy.  Therefore, ACS students are required to read a variety of classic literature – both Christian and secular – which enables us to discuss societal values and movements from a Christ-centered perspective.  In doing so, we seek to prepare students to engage potentially controversial ideas equipped with a biblical mindset.

The ACS English department uses Study Sync, an integrated reading and writing system that hones foundational language, reading comprehension, and analytical reading and writing skills as students respond to increasingly complex texts as they progress through middle and high school. Study Sync’s close reading routines ensure progress toward standards mastery, using novel studies as well as thematic short texts. Extended writing projects teach writing with embedded grammar instruction.

Membean is our digital vocabulary system that allows students to move beyond memorization and master words with spaced retrieval practice, nuanced questioning, and higher-order thinking strategies for deeper, long-term retention.

General Track

English 9 explores literature in light of biblical Truth, seeking to address the following key questions: Why do we feel the need to belong? What will you learn on your journey? How do you define intelligence? How do we perform for different audiences? English 9 is open to students in grade 9.

English 10 explores British literature in light of biblical Truth, seeking to address the following key questions: How are leaders formed from circumstances? How do we express the complexities of being human? How do reason and emotion help us understand the world? How does technology change our lives? English 10 is open to students in grade 10.  Prerequisite: English 9 or Honors English 9.

English 11 explores American literature in light of biblical Truth, seeking to address the following key questions: How does independence define the American spirit? How do our experiences inform our perspectives? How does place shape the individual? How do ideologies affect our lives? English 11 is open to grade 11.  Prerequisite: English 10 or Honors English 10.

English 12 explores literature in light of biblical Truth, seeking to address the following key questions: How can we transform the future? How do challenges cause us to reveal our true selves? How do leaders fight for their ideas? What is the power of story? English 12 is open to grade 12.  Prerequisite:English 11 or AP Language and Composition.
 

Honors/Advanced Track

***Honors and Advanced Placement class approval will be determined by the English department and be based upon consideration of the following criteria:  a B average in previous Honors/AP English class or an A average in previous general English class, consistent work ethic, deliberate/enthusiastic class participation, and writing samples that show sufficient writing skill to engage successfully in an Honors/AP class. Each piece is important to student achievement in an Honors/AP class, so no one piece of criteria guarantees or excludes approval.

Honors English 9 follows the same curriculum as English 9; however, pacing and key novel selection is more rigorous.  Honors English 9 is open to students in grade 9.

Honors English 10 follows the same curriculum as English 10; however, pacing and key novel selection is more rigorous. Honors English 10 is open to students in grade 10.

AP English Language & Composition prepares students to successfully take the College Board’s Advanced Placement Language and Composition Exam, providing an opportunity to earn college credit upon passing the exam.  The purpose of this course is to “enable students to read complex texts with understanding and to write prose of sufficient richness and complexity to communicate effectively with mature readers.” (AP English Language and Composition Workshop Handbook 2011­-2012) It is designed to teach the skills needed to succeed in a college-level writing course – writing critically on multiple works of literature, proving students’ ability to understand, explain, and evaluate. This course also includes a strong debate unit to develop the student’s ability to clearly reason, define and articulate his/her knowledge and beliefs. Regular attendance is crucial to success in this class and must be maintained. Open to grade 11.  

AP English Literature & Composition prepares students to successfully take the College Board’s Advanced Placement Literature and Composition Exam, providing an opportunity to earn college credit upon passing the exam.  An AP English Literature and Composition course engages students in the careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature. Through the close examination of selected texts, students will deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. As they read, students will consider a work’s structure, style and themes, as well as such smaller-scale elements as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone.  Regular attendance is crucial to success in this class and must be maintained. Open to grade 12.

Electives

Creative Writing is a workshop-oriented semester-long course in which students will learn the process and techniques of creative writing and, through practice, develop those skills.  Students will experiment with various types of writing, including the writing of fiction and poetry and plays. Class readings will expose students to various writing styles and provide examples of the successes and strategies of other writers. Class time will include learning the writer's craft, discussing the assigned readings, and developing student writing.  Open to grades 11 and 12.

Theatre is a workshop-oriented semester-long course, in which students will learn the basics of major aspects of a theatrical production, including acting, directing, design, construction, and stage and house management. Instruction will include a minimal amount of lecture, with the focus rather on participation, production, and performance. Attendance at a minimum of one outside theatrical performance is a class requirement; several opportunities to fulfill this requirement will be offered. The course will culminate in a "major" performance at the end of first semester or mid-January, depending on theater use/availability. Open to grades 11 and 12, by audition.