Page 36 - 2025-2026 District Program of Studies Revised 3.24.25_Neat

COLLEGE PREP & ACCELERATED ENGLISH COURSES

ENGLISH I: COLLEGE PREP &
ENGLISH I: ACCELERATED Year 5 credits GRADE 9
Prerequisite: Placement in the Accelerated-level course requires that students
have demonstrated proficiency on standardized tests and achievement in prior
English courses.

These courses support development of literacy skills and build upon a student’s fundamental knowledge of
literature through the study of genres: the short story, the novel, poetry and drama. Instructional activities,
assignments, and assessments are designed to develop critical thinking skills that empower students to
engage in analysis and evaluation of various fiction and nonfiction texts, both in print and multimedia. Students
are expected to grow in their abilities to draw inferences, conduct research, produce formal written
compositions, and apply knowledge of language. Requirements include summer reading, a research
paper, and independent reading throughout the year.

ENGLISH I: HONORS Year 5 credits GRADE 9
Prerequisite: Students will be recommended to this course based upon a rigorous selection
process involving a review of standardized test scores and achievement in English Language
Arts courses. Summer reading assignments are required.

This is the first step in a four-year English program for highly-talented students. Students read poetry, short
stories, novels, and a Shakespearean play. It is expected students in this course will read extensively and
probe into literary analysis. Supplementary work requires independent acquisition of vocabulary knowledge;
understanding and application of grammatical conventions; and establishment of sound academic habits and
strong study skills. Students will be expected to work diligently to complete course requirements and meet
personal goals. Assignments and projects in the summer and culminating activities throughout the year are
required.

ENGLISH II: COLLEGE PREP
& ENGLISH II: ACCELERATED Year 5 credits GRADE 10
Prerequisite: Placement in the Accelerated-level course requires that students have
demonstrated proficiency in the English I: Accelerated course, or that the student has earned
an 85% or above in English I: College Prep and has obtained the recommendation of the
current English teacher.

These courses foster continued growth of literacy skills through focused study of American literature.
Curriculum units are organized thematically to emphasize themes associated with understanding individual and
cultural identity, as well as the evolution of the American Dream. Instructional activities, assignments, and
assessments continue to develop critical thinking skills that empower students to engage in analysis and
evaluation of complex texts, both fiction and nonfiction. Students are expected to gain independence in their
abilities to draw inferences, conduct research, produce formal written compositions, and apply knowledge of
language. Requirements include summer reading, a research paper, and independent reading
throughout the school year.

Black Horse Pike Regional Program of Studies 36