English

English is an important course that enhances success in all other subjects. The importance of mastering the English language cannot be overemphasized. Skill in both written and spoken forms contributes greatly to success in one’s other school courses, one’s personal life, and in one’s future occupations.

All students must achieve a minimum of 15 credits in English (including English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2) to obtain a High School Diploma.

English 10-1 AP (5 credits)

This course is the introductory year of the 3 year program that amounts to the equivalent of a first year university English class. This literature-based course studies poems, short stories, plays, novels and essays of Canadian, British, and American origin as well as works in translation by authors from many other countries. Students write expressively and creatively in a variety of forms. This course fulfills the Alberta Learning requirements for English 10-1.

English 20-1 AP (5 credits)

This course is the second year of the 3-year program that amounts to the equivalent of a first year university English class. The focus of study is on Canadian literature in a variety of genres; however, a survey of literature of other countries is also pursued. Student work includes personal and critical responses to literature and creative writing. This course fulfills the Alberta Learning requirements for English 20-1 and also allows students to experience the AP Program.

English 30-1 AP (5 credits)

This course is the culminating year of the 3- year program that amounts to the equivalent of a first year university class. The course prepares students to write both the Advanced Placement Exam in May and the Alberta Learning Diploma Exam in June. The study of literature focuses on the classics of British, American and Canadian authors. Student essay-writing concentrates on critical analysis of literature.

English 10-1 (5 credits)

The literature in this course invites students to challenge traditional thinking by using fictional characters as role models. Students will be encouraged to contemporize the historical contexts presented in the course so the literature resonates as much today as it did then. The literature will include short stories, novels, mythologies, poetry, essays, film, and Shakespearean plays.

English 20-1 (5 credits)

Emphasis continues on analytical skills through the detailed study of literature. The literature will include short stories, novels, mythologies, poetry, essays, film and Shakespearean plays. Formal essay writing is a major component of the course. English 20-1 is the essential preparation for English 30-1.

English 30-1 (5 credits)

Intensive analytical and interpretive skills are emphasized, with a concentration on the refinement of formal writing skills. The literature will include short stories, novels, mythologies, poetry, essays, film and Shakespearean plays. Students must write the Alberta Learning Diploma Exam. Students making a transition to English 30-1 from English 30-2 should first take English 20-1 in preparation. English 10-2/20-2/30-2 are courses which focus on the development of skills in reading, writing, speaking, viewing, listening, and representing. The play, novel, short story, essay, drama, and poetry are studies with an emphasis on improvement of communication skills to equip students for life and work. Practical writing skills are developed. English 30-2 is the entrance requirement for many courses at NAIT and other postsecondary institutions.

English 10-2 (5 credits)

This course emphasizes development of oral and written communication skills, reading for enjoyment and personal growth, and language skills for the everyday world. Basic grammar and sentence building are reviewed.

English 20-2 (5 credits)

Oral and written skills necessary to communicate effectively are emphasized. Organization in writing is stressed through response to literature and practical writing assignments. Students in this stream who want to pursue English 30-1 should have completed English 20-1. Students may enter English 20-1 after successfully completing English 20-2.

English 30-2 (5 credits)

English 30-2 builds on the communication and writing skills developed in English 20-2, with an emphasis on practical writing and the appreciation of literature. Students must write the Alberta Learning Diploma Exam.