About the English Department

The English Department follows a sequential, literature based writing program at all levels. A progression of skills in writing is developed through a series of writing assignments starting with the personal narrative and culminating with critical analysis of literature. Required classical and contemporary literature is presented at every grade. Specialized skills in communication, critical thinking and cooperative learning are incorporated into the program. The department’s strong four-year academic program is designed to prepare students to succeed at the college level. The English Language Development Program is also a part of this department. 

The English Placement Assessment is a reading and writing task designed to ensure two things: that the English teachers at SR have a sense of the skills, talents and academic needs of their incoming students, and that we are able to make informed placement recommendations to counselors and families.  The task itself is similar to those students regularly encounter in class: reading an informational article and responding to that article in writing.  The assessment is designed to be completed in a 55 minute class period.  Student work will be scored against a rubric that assesses reading comprehension and writing skills.  Score information and feedback about recommended placement will be made available to counselors and families.

English Department Program Options for an incoming 9th grader can be pretty overwhelming.  "Do I need a support class?" "Should I take honors?" "What happens if I take honors and I can't handle it?"  "What if I don't sign up for honors, and then change my mind?"  Check out this linked FAQ page for our answers to those questions!