Language Arts/English
“If you can think, you can write. We’re building writers, one at a time.” -Mrs. Kathy Cunningham, English Department Chair
At QAS, we recognize that if we can help our students master the art of writing, we will give them an invaluable key to their own limitless futures. Time after time, our graduates have told us that writing proficiency is the number one skill that has helped them
6th GRADE STUDY SKILLS
Helps students to develop effective study habits and skills such as reading comprehension, note taking, and test taking. Topics covered include time management, organization, using library and Internet resources, and public speaking.
6th GRADE LITERATURE AND LANGUAGE ARTS
Sixth grade students are challenged to improve their oral and written communication skills through understanding and integrating grammar and mechanics. The course develops both formal and informal reading and writing skills.
7th GRADE COMMUNICATION STYLES
Seventh grade English focuses on understanding and applying the basic rules of grammar to further enhance the study of literature and writing. Students are introduced to basic literary terminology and develop different writing skills.
8th GRADE LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION
Eighth grade English is designed to build upon students’ writing and comprehension skills through the use of grammar, rhetoric, and historical content. Students are introduced to the major literary genres.
9th GRADE INTRO. TO LITERATURE OR COMPISITION & LITERATURE
Both ninth grade English classes introduce students to the different literary genres, including poetry, drama, the short story, and the novel. Both emphasize critical thinking skills and the development of the writer’s voice. Composition & Lit. puts more emphasis on helping students build basic writing skills, to set the foundation for all Upper School classes at Queen Anne School. Intro to Lit assumes that students have mastered basic writing skills and are ready to move forward with less assistance.
10th GRADE WORLD LITERATURE & COMPOSITION
Tenth grade literature offers students an opportunity to examine novels, plays, short stories, and poetry from around the world. Students further develop their critical thinking and writing skills while learning about other cultures.
10th, 11th, and 12th GRADES CREATIVE WRITING –FICTION and CREATIVE NON-FICTION
This year-long elective introduces students in grades 10, 11, and 12 to the art of creative writing. The first semester focuses on fiction writing as students learn the mechanics of plot structure, character development, dialogue, and narrative voice in a workshop-style format. Students try their hand at different styles of writing and explore their own lives, finding meaning in personal experience. The class ends with the production of an “underground newspaper” reflecting the students’ own take on school and the world around them.
11th GRADE - AMERICAN LITERATURE OR HONORS AMERICAN LITERATURE
Eleventh grade English explores the literary heritage of the United States, from the Puritans to the contemporary period, through its poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and drama. The writing focuses on developing personal and reflective writing skills. Accelerated honors sections are available for qualifying students.
12th GRADE ADVANCED PLACEMENT LITERATURE
AP English offers twelfth grade students an introduction to a college-level English course, with an accelerated reading and writing load. This course includes intensive reading and writing assignments in preparation for the challenge of college courses.
12th GRADE SENIOR SEMINAR IN LITERATURE AND FILM
Senior Seminar offers students the chance to study the social implications of a variety of plays, novels, short stories, and films as they continue to perfect their writing and thinking skills. Oral expression and rhetorical writing are emphasized.
CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN STUDIES
Seniors may select to take Contemporary American Studies as their twelfth grade English class. The course integrates literature of all forms (novels, plays, poetry, films, music) from the second half of the 20th century with a look at historical influences and implications. The course follows historical developments (Post-WWII, the Cold War and McCarthyism, Vietnam, etc.) and takes a close look at the beat generation, civil rights, drug use and abuse, music, and the advent of television. Students will be expected to do extensive reading, research, and writing, all aimed at preparing them for the rigors of college.
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