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De Smet English Department
English Department Course Descriptions
Plato said, "When the mind is thinking it is talking to itself." All people think in terms of language, so secondary English studies -- language studies -- are important for all education. At De Smet Jesuit High all students are required to take English every semester, every year. The English curriculum in all courses encompasses reading, analytical and imaginative thinking skills, writing, grammar and vocabulary study.
Freshmen begin writing paragraphs and progress to writing the five-paragraph essay by year's end. Freshman reading assignments include a variety of genres: poetry, short story, novel, drama. Ninth-grade composition is based on the interpretation and appreciation of literature; writing assignments combine expository and argumentative skills.
Sophomores continue practice in writing the five-paragraph essay, and they develop their writing skills to include the research paper. Tenth-grade literature expands on British and American literature with selections from world authors. Practice taking standardized tests -- the SAT, the ACT (and the AP for honors students) -- begins sophomore year.
De Smet Junior English focuses on the study of American literature. Again, students practice writing the five-paragraph essay and the research paper. Honors students may earn college credit for English through St. Louis University junior and senior years.
Seniors read selections from Greek and British literature; they continue to respond to their reading in formal essays and in research assignments. Rhetorical modes of writing are studied by reading essays chosen from traditional and contemporary authors.
Grammar proficiency is reinforced in grades 10 through 12 through student compositions. With a variety of authors and titles read at all grade levels, every student should find favorites.
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