ENGLISH
The English Department’s curriculum is geared to the requirements of three areas: Language (includes Grammar, Usage and Vocabulary), Literature, and Writing. These areas are incorporated into one fundamental course of study but are still regarded as distinct disciplines requiring specific skills and evaluation.
Literature study in the ninth grade consists of significant texts of world literature which introduce students to literary analysis. Texts include A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (Smith), Romeo and Juliet (Shakespeare), and a wide selection of short stories, poetry and non-fiction.
Language study in the ninth grade consists of Grammar, Usage, Vocabulary and Spelling. Particular emphasis is put on learning vocabulary from context in addition to a formal vocabulary program in preparation for the PSAT and SAT exams.
The writing program gives students the opportunity to develop coherent and fully functional written expression. Special attention is paid to the creation of properly structured sentences and paragraphs within the framework of a complete essay. Students write and rewrite their essays based on correction and individual conferences with the instructor. Writing skills are developed and reinforced throughout the disciplines. Grammatically correct writing is a requirement in science, social studies, and math. It is viewed as a life skill necessary for academic and professional success. It is therefore an interdisciplinary goal, incorporated in every General Studies course.
GRADE TEN ENGLISH
Students in grade ten are taught the finer points of English writing and speaking skills, including proper word use, punctuation and vocabulary. The writing program focuses on practice of the five paragraph expository essay.
In a focused survey of American and World Literature, Grade Ten students read and analyze pieces of classical and contemporary writing that have become ingrained parts of Western culture. Texts include Julius Caesar (Shakespeare), Jane Eyre (Bronte), A Separate Peace (Knowles). Specifically, the students undertake a detailed review of the structure and style inherent in literature’s conventional formats, i.e. the short story, novel, poem and play, with detailed explanation and analysis of the literary elements within each piece of literature. Routinely administered tests and essays require students to display that they have completed a thorough reading of assigned material and have cultivated a well-honed ability to analyze literary content.
In Grade Eleven, the focus is on American short stories, poems and plays, with the goal of enhancing and extending each student’s literary knowledge. Students will complement their study of reading material by writing on various levels. Texts include literary works by Robert Frost, Edgar Allen Poe, Emily Dickinson, Jane Austen, Shirley Jackson, Ralph W. Emerson, Tennessee Williams and King Lear by Shakespeare. Compositions, essays and creative writing are an integral part of this course. Students are encouraged to exchange ideas and personal thoughts related to the topics at hand. Understanding and ultimately enjoying the beauty of literature depends on all facets of expression. In addition, students in Grade Eleven read two literary works independently which they analyze in their journals.
The instructor will administer regular tests upon the completion of a specific amount of work studied in class. Occasional unannounced quizzes may be given at the instructor’s discretion.
The study of American Literature in Grade Eleven entails comprehensive vocabulary review and a full fledged writing section. Participants are required to discuss specific pieces of literature at length and to produce properly developed written essays on the subject at hand. Writing focuses on taking a position on various issues and defending one’s position with relevant and specific evidence. A unique product of the class is a class newspaper comprised of samples of various writing techniques using vocabulary words studied, in addition to creative writing done over the year. Furthermore : the students also prepare a PowerPoint presentation presenting a woman they admire. This project develops the necessary poise and confidence to speak in a public forum.
GRADE TWELVE ENGLISH
In the twelfth grade students are guided through the great works of world literature. The course includes the study of Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Shaw’s Pygmalion. These plays are followed by the students reading select novels including Les Miserable, (Hugo) or Emma, (Austen), and short stories by Hawthorne, Browning, D.H. Lawrence, P.B. Shelley, and others. In addition, the girls read several novels of their own choosing.
Grade Twelve students are expected to display that they have mastered the English language skills developed in their previous years of high school study and have developed an individual style of expression. They are required to complete fully detailed and properly constructed written essays which clearly convey the meaning of particular themes and ideas.
As a culmination of their English studies, our students work on a Multi-Generational, Family History report. It requires research into the land their families came from and a map depicting their journey to America. In addition, they interview their relatives and then write about the lives of their ancestors in their native countries. They then focus on one specific family member whom they discuss in detail. They often include photo displays of their families.
This project combines the pride of each of our students in her family and heritage, making the transition from an immigrant to a proud American.
COLLEGE COMPOSITION 1&2
Merkaz Bnos High School offers students in this program who have exhibited superior academic capabilities over the previous three years the opportunity to strive for greater scholastic heights. Accordingly, we have instituted a senior college Composition 1 and 2 course which is designated as an advanced course of study. Participants in this course undertake intense study of classic literary works and complete reflective writing assignments on a regular basis in their personal journals. In addition, they independently read two literary works of their own choosing. This course provides students with college credits.