9/10 Literature/Composition (Period Prd 3)

Understanding the beliefs, norms, and practices of multiple cultures is critical to our young adults' realizing their place in the world, both locally and globally. As they learn to read, derive meaning, analyze, synthesize, and communicate about world-renowned literature and informational text, our students also learn to “show respect for others,” “demonstrate integrity,” “contribute to the community,” “solve problems,” and “apply knowledge” (SPHS Expected School-wide Learning Results) in a myriad of ways. Through this 9^/10 Literature and Composition course, our students are exposed to a new world of adventure, intrigue, social dilemma, and possibility as they continue to develop their skills in reading and writing.

Wanting to improve students' academic outcome, California has now implemented a new approach for curriculum standards – the Common Core. This approach encompasses a shift from strictly skills-based learning, to more critical thinking, more problem solving, more application of skills, and more technology integration. In your student's work, be sure to look for:

• emphasis on both literary and informational text
  • analysis of and communicating about theme/central ideas, character development, series of events/instructions, plot development, and language usage
  • broadening research as evidence and support for claims
  • integration of multiple sources for learning and writing  – text, internet, film, theater, lectures, demonstrations