The English Department offers a sequential and structured study of American, British and World Literature courses, designed to meet the needs of students on all academic levels, including honors and Advanced Placement. Genre study includes short stories, novels, plays, poetry, mythology and non-fiction with an emphasis on varying cultural and historical influences as well as the particular context. Through the study of literature, students evaluate moral and social themes from a wide range of classical and contemporary authors. Additional electives in areas such as journalism, newspaper and yearbook production, and creative writing support the department’s goal of fostering an appreciation of language in its various forms of expression.

Equally important, the English Department provides a sequential four-year writing program, as detailed in our Writing Curriculum and Benchmark documents. Writing, rewriting, and conferencing with instructors help students foster clear thinking and logical arguments. Students use scholarly research and technology to develop and support their points of view.

In the English classroom, students are challenged to think critically, express ideas effectively, listen attentively and develop a strong individual voice. The stimulating classroom atmosphere that results allows for serious reflection on the power of the English language and communication.