ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

	Mrs. Lori Favela Chairperson 619-725-9109	Ms. Rose Fegley 619-725-9199	Ms. Francesca Di Meglio 619-725-9151

Mrs. Kathleen Guerin 619-725-9112	Mrs. Kathleen Herb Baker '70 619-725-9115	Ms. Katie Turner 619-725-9107	Mrs. Kristin Zapala 619-725-9171

DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY

The ability to use and appreciate the English language is central to the educational process. In our society, English forms the basis of communication, and, at the same time, is the means of artistic expression that reflects the breadth of cultural, aesthetic and moral values of the society. The English Department, therefore, is committed to building the basic academic competencies of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and reasoning. In addition, the department seeks to foster an enjoyment of literature, a fluency with language, and the kind of creativity that is itself the lifeblood of good writing.

The English Department’s approach to literature acknowledges the major literary contributions of England (12 th grade), the United States (11 th grade), various world authors (1oth grade) and authors representing multi-cultural voices (9 th grade) that have significantly affected the development of literary techniques and styles. As approaches to reading differ, so do approaches to teaching. The genre approach, the chronological approach, and the discussion of themes within these units are all used in an effort to involve the student in different types of analysis.

Composition is the core vehicle for processing the literature that is studied, challenging the students to respond to the written word. The English Department believes that writing and learning are inseparable and that the writing process itself is student-owned and student-centered. Students begin to develop their own writing styles as they learn the basic theories of research, documentation, organization, analysis, synthesis, evaluation, and creation. The English Department fosters academic integrity and personal responsibility in students through teaching proper citation and documentation and offering a variety of resources enabling students to create original work.

Articulate expression is expected of all students. Each student is, therefore, involved in an introductory Speech class. Prepared as well as impromptu speaking techniques are further taught and practiced at all levels of English instruction.

Finally, no student of English can experience the pleasures that language study can afford without opportunities to participate in professional performances that highlight English in its classic as well as experimental forms. Live drama, speech competitions, and formal readings are planned parts of the English curricula.

The leap of language, from the lips to the minds
of those listening, was the astonishing spark from
which all subsequent ideas have ignited.”
Jack O’Brien Artistic Director, Old Globe heater
San Diego , California

 

GRADE LEVEL REQUIREMENT

Students in grades nine through eleven are required to show proficiency in a specified writing assignment. Ninth grade students will be required to write a critical essay on Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. Tenth grade students will be required to write a research paper. Eleventh grade students will be required to write a critical essay on a selected novel or novels. Students must earn a grade of 75% or better in order to advance to the next grade level. If students fail to meet this requirement after one re-write opportunity, they must attend and pass the summer school Expository Writing course (or an approved outside writing course) in order to continue at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace.

While the students are allowed one re-write in order to “pass” this requirement, the original essay grade will remain in the grade book.

 

HONORS PROGRAM

The Honors Program is designed to offer students with exceptional critical thinking and writing skills an opportunity to participate in more extensive literature and writing study. Accelerated classes are offered at each grade level. With the exception of Advanced Placement English, the honors courses follow the core curriculum for the grade level. Instruction is enhanced by the depth of analysis, more extensive reading assignments and more sophisticated writing activities.

Advanced Placement English offers students with exceptional skills to participate in a college-level course and possibly earn college credit. The Advanced Placement Exams in Literature and Composition and Language and Composition are administered every year in May.

 

HONORS SELECTION PROCESS

In order to enroll in an Honors or AP class, a student must meet the qualifications established by the English Department. It is not necessary for students to remain in the “honors track” all four years. Students are encouraged to review their academic and personal goals for each year and then decide whether or not they wish to apply for the honors program. Students must re-qualify each year.

Placement in the Accelerated/Honors/AP courses is determined by point system which recognizes both students' achievement and their academic potential. Students receive points based on the following criteria: academic grades in previous English classes;