Through the study of classical and contemporary literature, the English Department strives to help students develop ethical, religious, aesthetic, and cultural values using discussion, writing, and literary analysis. The department develops writers who can think critically and write effectively both in college and throughout life. Our Catholic Lasallian traditions are the foundation upon which we interpret and critique literature. Our choices of literature teach students to recognize the dignity of all persons, the importance of compassion, and the rewards of service.
View the English Department Curriculum
Instruction of all writing domains is an integral part of the secondary English curriculum. A description of the domains has been noted below. Although all of the domains are integrated at all grade levels, the 11th and 12th grade curriculum focuses strongly on the practical and analytical in preparation for college-level writing.
The department incorporated the Ace Writing Program method of teaching multiple paragraph essay writing into the curriculum. This allows for consistency in both terminology and instruction. Students are introduced to the program in the first semester of the 9th grade; follow-up instruction is given in subsequent years.
A Writer’s Reference, by Diana Hacker, is used for both instruction by the teacher and as a tool for independent study by the students in all language arts classes at all grade levels.
Teachers include a number of timed writings throughout the year to prepare students for a variety ofo test-taking situations.
Domains include:
Sensory / Descriptive (Presenting a picture in words)
Imaginative / Narrative (Telling a story-real or imagined)
Practical / Informative (Provide clear information)
Analytical / Expository (Analyze, Explain, Persuade, Influence)
