| What is the PSSA? | Current PSSA Scores | Current Courses | Best Practices | Goals | Results |
| LANGUAGE ARTS COURSES | Applicable Pennsylvania State Assessment Standards |
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Honors English 7 Grade: 7 Prerequisite: Teacher Referral/completed summer reading Credit Value: 1.2 This course is designed as a challenging exploration of literature, writing and grammar. Vocabulary study is focused on words for the college-bound student. Independent reading and writing are required. Conventional rules of grammar and spelling are stressed. Literature is studied with attention to form and theme. Research and critical reading skills are practiced through individual and group projects. One lengthy research project is completed. Pennsylvania language arts standards are addressed in preparation for the PSSA |
1.1.8 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.8 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.8 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.8 Types of Writing 1.5.8 Quality of Writing 1.6.8 Speaking and Listening 1.7.8 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.8 Research |
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Academic English 7 Grade: 7 Prerequisite: Teacher Referral A writing process approach, stressing the conventions of traditional grammar, English 7 focuses on sentence and paragraph structure. Speaking, listening, and study skills are reinforced through daily note taking, class discussion and individual/group presentations. Research and critical analysis skills are used periodically as they apply to literature study. Literature study explores both theme and form through drama, poetry, myth, fable, and the short story with a focus on personal imaginative interaction with literary works. Pennsylvania language arts standards are address in preparation for the PSSA. Vocabulary and spelling skills are developed through workbook format. |
1.1.8 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.8 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.8 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.8 Types of Writing 1.5.8 Quality of Writing 1.6.8 Speaking and Listening 1.7.8 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.8 Research |
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Applied English 7 Grade: 7 Prerequisite: Teacher Referral This course gives students practice with speaking, listening, reading and writing. Traditional rules of grammar and spelling are stressed. Literature studied covers the forms of poetry; drama, short story, essay, myth, and fable. Group and individual projects incorporate cooperative learning and research skills. Review and practice addresses the Pennsylvania language arts standards to prepare students for the PSSA. |
1.1.8 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.8 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.8 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.8 Types of Writing 1.5.8 Quality of Writing 1.6.8 Speaking and Listening 1.7.8 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.8 Research |
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Honors English 8 Grade: 8 Prerequisite: 80% or higher in Honors English 7 with teacher recommendation or a 90% or higher in Academic English 7 with teacher recommendation Summer reading assignment completed Credit: .7 This course is designed to further develop skills in oral and written language, as well as listening skills. Students will complete projects that practice these skills. Correct grammar and spelling will be stressed. Two papers or essays will be completed. Literature is taught with attention to character analysis, plot, theme, and literary elements. Students will be tested in these areas per the state standards. A vocabulary unit is used to help students understand new meanings and how to apply those meanings to sentences, to identify synonyms, and to identify antonyms. Students will be tested per the state standards. Students will read and respond to a minimum of three novels that the teacher chooses for class and a minimum of four novels that the student chooses. Students will read and respond to one Shakespeare play. There will be a heavy emphasis on independent/guided practice with a limited amount of direct instruction. |
1.1.8 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.8 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.8 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.8 Types of Writing 1.5.8 Quality of Writing 1.6.8 Speaking and Listening 1.7.8 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.8 Research |
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Academic English 8 Grade: 8 Prerequisite: 80% or higher in Academic English 7 with teacher recommendation or a 90% or higher in Applied English 7 Credit: .5 This course is designed to further develop student skills in oral and written language, as well as skills in listening. Students will complete projects that practice oral, written, and listening skills. Correct grammar and spelling will be heavily stressed. One paper or essay will be completed. Literature is taught with attention to character analysis, plot, theme, and literary elements. Students will be tested in these areas per the state standards. A vocabulary unit is used to help students understand new meanings and how to apply those meanings to sentences, to identify synonyms, and to identify antonyms. Students will read and respond to a minimum of three novels that the teacher chooses and a minimum of four novels of the student’s choosing. Focus will be on PSSA standards. There will be an emphasis on independent/guided practice with direct instruction. |
1.1.8 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.8 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.8 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.8 Types of Writing 1.5.8 Quality of Writing 1.6.8 Speaking and Listening 1.7.8 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.8 Research |
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Applied English 8 Grade: 8 Prerequisite: Applied English 7 Credit: .5 This course is designed to further develop student skills in oral and written language, as well as skills in listening. Students will complete projects that practice oral, written, and listening skills. Correct grammar and spelling will be heavily stressed. One paper or essay will be completed. Literature is taught with attention to character analysis, plot, theme, and literary elements. Students will be tested in these areas per the state standards. A vocabulary unit is used to help students understand new meanings and how to apply those meanings to sentences, to identify synonyms, and to identify antonyms. Students will read a minimum of two novels that the teacher chooses and a minimum of 3 novels of the student’s choosing. Focus will be on PSSA standards. The main teaching strategy will be direct instruction. |
1.1.8 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.8 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.8 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.8 Types of Writing 1.5.8 Quality of Writing 1.6.8 Speaking and Listening 1.7.8 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.8 Research |
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Honors English 9 Grade: 9 Prerequisites: 80% or higher in Honors English 8 with teacher recommendation or a 90 % or higher in Academic English 8 with teacher recommendation. Completed summer reading Credit: 1.2 This course will cover all of the work outlined for Academic 9, and will add independent reading and writing. Students, beginning in the summer, will be expected to read independently and to write various modes of responses to major works of fiction. In addition, extra research assignments will be required of Honors 9 students. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Academic English 9 Grade: 9 Prerequisites: 80% or higher in Academic English 8 with teacher recommendation or a 90% or higher in Applied English 8 with teacher recommendation This course contains five areas of emphasis. First, the student is exposed to practice and reinforcement of language skills previously learned. Second, the writing programs continues, stressing major modes of writing (narrative, persuasive and expository) and the writing process itself. Various literary genres are introduced, and the project is introduced, emphasizing use of both library resources and primary sources. Throughout all areas of study, proper usage and communication skills are addressed in a prescriptive manner, based on students needs. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Applied English 9 Grade: 9 This course is designed for students who are not in the college-preparation courses, and who need support with basic communication skills. Literary genre and the modes of writing units for grade 9 will be included in the course, but strong emphasis will be placed on support of basic reading and writing skills. Material reviewed will include skills necessary for proficiency on all mandated assessments. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Honors English 10 Grade: 10 Prerequisite: 80% or higher in Honors English 9 with teacher recommendation or a 90 % or higher in Academic English 9 with teacher recommendation Completed summer reading Credit: 1.2 The Honors English 10 course is designed to improve students’ writing skills through development of the writing process. Various modes of writing will be taught and practiced per state standards with an emphasis on preparing students for college writing and real world situations. Literature is taught with attention to character analysis, plot, theme, and literary elements. The student will be tested in these areas per the state standards. A vocabulary unit is used to help students understand new meanings and how to apply those meanings to sentences, to identify synonyms, and to identify antonyms. Students will be tested per the state standards. Students will read independently and identify literary elements, main ideas, and make generalizations. Students will read and respond to a minimum of three novels that the teacher chooses for class and a minimum of four novels that the student chooses. Students will read and respond to two Shakespeare plays. There will be a heavy emphasis on independent/guided practice with a limited amount of direct instruction. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Academic English 10 Grade: 10 Prerequisite: 80% or higher in Academic English 9 with teacher recommendation or a 90% or higher in Applied English 9 with teacher recommendation The Academic English 10 course is designed to improve students’ writing skills through development of the writing process. Various modes of writing will be taught and practiced per state standards with an emphasis on preparing students for college writing and real world situations. Literature is taught with attention to character analysis, plot, theme, and literary elements. The student will be tested in these areas per the state standards. A vocabulary unit is used to help students understand new meanings and how to apply those meanings to sentences, to identify synonyms, and to identify antonyms. Students will be tested per the state standards. Students will read independently and identify literary elements, main ideas, and make generalizations. Students will read and respond to a minimum of three novels that the teacher chooses for class and a minimum of four novels that the student chooses. Students will read and respond to one Shakespeare play. Teaching emphasis will be one independent/guided practice with direct instruction. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Applied English 10 Grade: 10 Prerequisite: Applied English 9 The English 10 course is designed to improve students’ writing skills through development of the writing process. Various modes of writing will be taught and practiced per state standards with an emphasis on preparing students for real world and job situations. Literature is taught with attention to character analysis, plot, theme, and literary elements. The student will be tested in these areas per the state standards. A vocabulary unit is used to help students understand new meanings and how to apply those meanings to sentences, to identify synonyms, and to identify antonyms. Students will be tested per the state standards. Students will read independently and identify literary elements, main ideas, and make generalizations. *Adaptations will be made for the general class. For example, students will be able to use notes, correct failed tests, etc… Direct instruction will be the main teaching strategy. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Honors English 11 Grade: 11 Prerequisites: 80% or higher in Honors English 10 with teacher recommendation or a 90 % or higher in Academic English 10 with teacher recommendation Completed summer reading Credit: 1.2 This course incorporates and expands upon the elements of Academic English 12. It is designed to challenge the college bound student through in-depth exploration of American Literature and writing for different purposes. Several papers will be completed and outside reading is required. Vocabulary for college bound students is studied and writing for different purposes is explored. All work focuses on PA standards to prepare students for the PSSA test. SAT preparation is also addressed. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Academic English 11 Grade: 11 Prerequisite: 80% or higher in Academic English 10 with teacher Recommendation or a 90% or higher in Applied English 10 with teacher recommendation This course is designed for college-bound students to refine language arts skills in preparation for success in post-secondary education. Extensive reading, challenging writing assignments and class discussion aim to equip students to analyze literature and communicate intelligently. American literature is studied from an historical approach to provide the student with a background in and appreciation of his/her literary heritage. The vocabulary program and SAT preparation segments will aid students on college entrance exams. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Applied English 11 Grade: 11 This course is designed primarily as a study of the various forms of literature, vocabulary, grammar, writing, and rhetoric. American literature is studied from an historical approach to provide the student with a background in and appreciation of his/her literary heritage. Vocabulary and grammar are studied to improve the student’s command of everyday situations in both verbal and written usage. A paper on a career-related topic is done to promote coherent essay structure and as the culmination of an experience in elementary research techniques. Rhetoric is studied through group discussions, debates and modern American drama. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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AP English 12 Grade: 12 Prerequisites: Teacher recommended 90% or higher in Honors English 11 with teacher recommendation or a 93 % or higher in Academic English 11 Completed summer reading Credit: 1.2 This course covers all the material and skills outlined for Academic 12, and adds an extra component of independent work. Students begin in the summer with independent reading and writing requirements and continue the extra assignments during the course. Students will be expected to read major works of fiction and non-fiction during each quarter, and to write a variety of essays in response to that reading. (Students will choose some works from a list supplied; others will be assigned.) The course is designed for motivated and mature seniors who can work independently and who can deal with challenging reading and writing. Students also have the individual option of taking the AP examination in the spring; preparation and practice is made available to any students who request it. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Academic English 12 Grade: 12 Prerequisite: 80% or higher in Academic English 11 with teacher Recommendation or a 90% or higher in Applied English 11 with teacher recommendation This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the history and development of their language and the importance of its literature. The literary units of study, approached from a historical and cultural viewpoint, emphasize the interrelated nature of a society’s values and its communication choices and literature. Concepts in writing covered include levels of usage, and the nature of formal English necessary for college success. Literature covered includes the major works of early British Literature (through Shakespeare) and in the second semester, current fiction. The course is specifically designed for the needs of students entering a four-year academic program. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently 1.2.11 Reading Critically in All Content Areas 1.3.11 Reading, Analyzing and Interpreting Literature 1.4.11 Types of Writing 1.5.11 Quality of Writing 1.6.11 Speaking and Listening 1.7.11 Characteristics and Function of the English Language 1.8.11 Research |
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Applied English 12 Grade: 12 This course is designed to focus on the communication skills important in the working world. The content includes workplace writing skills, drawn from real world work needs, and reading skills necessary for business success. These include comprehension of material, sequencing of ideas, vocabulary recognition and drawn whenever possible from actual workplace documents and similar sources. Emphasis is placed on correctness, readability and usefulness of written assignments. The course will also address, on as needed basis, support for proficiency on mandated assessments. |
1.1.11 Learning to Read
Independently
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