Grammar & Rhetoric
Grammar & Rhetoric
Prerequisite Course: American Literature or Composition 1&2
Credits: 1
Course Description: The primary focus of this course is to study and to employ sound reading and literary strategies in the study of literature. Students read, respond to, and extend text based on literal and figurative interpretations. Students also define, locate, and explain a myriad of literary devices, concentrating specifically on those outlined by the Pennsylvania Department of Education Common Core Standards for Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening.
Topics Covered:
Students will read a diverse compendium of literature from genres including short stories, novels, poetry, nonfiction, and drama. The focus of the literature study at this level is to increase reading appreciation. Moreover, students will define vocabulary and comprehension strategies to strengthen independent reading.
Students complete extensive writing exercises and prompts to develop proficiency in five domains: focus, content, organization, style, and conventions. Any grammar and mechanics deficiencies should be reinforced through concentrated mini-lessons in context. Students will also explore the role of language in literature and in society.
Students will complete a research project that explores the method of research as well as appropriate documentation of sources.
Required Readings:
Hinton, S.E. That Was Then, This Is Now.
Hinton, S.E. Rumblefish.
Williams, Tennessee. A Streetcar Named Desire.
Rand, Ayn. Anthem.
Albom, Mitch.Tuesdays With Morrie.
Zusak, Markus. I Am The Messenger.