English

LITERATURE AND LANGUAGE 1 – GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will aid the students in the transition from middle school by concentrating on thinking, writing, and reading skills necessary for success in multiple academic areas. This course will help students develop writing skills focusing on composition, editing, and grammar. Writing strategies and rhetoric will be reinforced through the examination of various reading material ranging from classics to contemporary literature to informative and technical sources.  Writing assignments will focus on the development and organization of sophisticated paragraphs in preparation for lengthier essays and will require students to use technology to share, edit and revise. In addition, skills such as paraphrasing, summarizing, and note taking will be emphasized to help students succeed across the high school curriculum. The English skill development for the students in this class will be the foundation for success in the Literature and Language 2 course.  (ST# 01001A000)

LITERATURE AND LANGUAGE 2 - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: Expanding the elements of Literature and Language 1, this course will help students develop skills focusing on editing, reading, and grammar. Writing strategies  will be reinforced through the examination of various reading materials ranging from classic and contemporary literature to informative and nonfiction sources. Special emphasis will be given to the writing skills needed to succeed in both the public and higher education spheres as outlined in Common Core standards.  In addition, students will learn appropriate use of technology in facilitating 21st Century Learning skills through research, composition, and enrichment. The English skill development for the students in this class will be the foundation for success in the Literature and Language 3 course. (ST#  01002A000)

LITERATURE AND LANGUAGE 3 - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: Continuing with the elements from the freshman and sophomore years, this course will focus on text analysis, composition elements, and public speaking.  The strong writing emphasis is reinforced with a variety of essay tasks, both in-class timed essays and out-of-class longer essays.  Each semester will focus on reading skills, argumentative writing, research and MLA documentation.  The readings for this course will serve as a model and basis for writing and will lead to a proficiency in close reading and literary analysis.  Students who successfully complete this course will be prepared for senior-level courses.  (ST# 01003A000)

COLLEGE PREP WRITING & LITERATURE - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  The course will allow students time and opportunity to perfect the English skills that they have learned during their high school years:  reading comprehension, writing clarity, researching, and presenting.  Addressing modern themes and issues, the students will be analyzing fiction and non-fiction works that will provide background and insight into the focus for each unit.  Using technology to research, edit, and revise their works, the students will be writing MLA documented essays and presentations that will prepare them for the level of writing required in college.  This course will require students to use critical thinking skills through the analysis of various forms of media.  In addition, this course will promote and refine the multiple common core standards necessary for student success at the next level.  THE STUDENT:  This course is meant for the college and/or career bound student who likes the variety of working with both literature and composition and is willing to devote time outside of class to prepare. (ST#01004A000)

HONORS ENGLISH 1 - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  The student is recommended to enroll in this class based on test scores, past performance, and/or teacher recommendation.  This course focuses on complex, higher-level thinking skills, the study and analysis of various genres of literature, and the development of logical, analytical writing skills. Writing assignments will require students to use technology to share, edit, and revise. The course includes world literature, grammar, writing, and test preparation.  It utilizes a variety of assessment formats, such as projects, oral presentations, expository essays, and formal testing.  Incoming students should have a strong work ethic and a willingness to seek help as needed. THE STUDENT:  This course is meant for college-bound students of exceptional ability who are willing to accept the challenge of a fast-paced and academically demanding course. (ST# 01053A000)

HONORS ENGLISH 2 - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  The student is invited to participate in this class based on past performance, test scores, and/or teacher recommendation. This course focuses on complex, higher-level thinking skills through the study and analysis of various genres of literature.   Honors English 2 concentrates primarily on American literature, focusing on its themes and style.  Analytical thinking is reinforced through essay writing, research projects, formal and informal presentations, critical listening, and a variety of testing experiences.  THE STUDENT: This course is meant for college-bound students of exceptional ability who are willing to accept the challenge of a fast-paced, academically challenging course.  (ST#01054A000)

COMPOSITION 101 (ENGLISH 101, COMPOSITION 1) - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  English 101, a dual credit course, is designed for students who already have a solid foundation in composition and demonstrate an extensive knowledge of grammar.  Students will collaborate to explore a variety of writing modes by reading, discussing, and writing about examples of good writing and will develop their own polished essays from the prewriting and drafting stages through a series of revisions and editing.  Also, students will use research materials to produce correctly documented papers.  To gain the college credit, students must meet the BHC portfolio requirement AND achieve a grade of "C" or better in the class, including a minimum average "C" on all essays.  If the student has concerns about being ready for a dual credit course, he/she should consider taking College Writing.  THE STUDENT:  This course is intended for college-bound students who want an in-depth study of the writing process as well as a college freshman English composition credit.  This student is an organized, committed critical thinker who is willing and eager to tackle challenging work, accept constructive criticism, collaborate, and conference as required.  PREREQUISITE: A passing score on the Black Hawk College writing and reading placement tests, an ACT English or Reading subtests minimum score of 22, or SAT scores of 480 in reading and 480 in writing. In addition to passing both the Reading and Writing Accuplacer, a student needs to have earned a C or better in Honors 2 or Lit. and Language 3 and/or have the recommendation of Honors 2/Lit. and Language 3 teacher.  COST: There will be a fee required by Black Hawk College. (ST# 01005A000)

COMPOSITION 102 (ENGLISH 102, COMPOSITION 2) –GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: English102, a continuation of English 101, is a dual credit composition course that involves reading, discussion, and analysis of nonfiction to generate ideas for critical and persuasive, documented research papers.  Students will analyze, evaluate, interpret, and respond in writing to texts from a balanced variety of academic disciplines. They will design and develop logical arguments in essays addressing all sides of an issue avoiding fallacies, establishing voice, providing support, and establishing credibility. Students will apply the conventions of edited American English in all their work. To gain the college credit, students must achieve a grade of "C" or better in the class, including a minimum average "C" on all essays.  THE STUDENT:  Students who successfully complete English 102 may complete their college freshman English requirement with this course. This student is an organized, committed critical thinker who is willing and eager to tackle challenging work, meet deadlines, accept constructive criticism, collaborate, and conference as necessary PREREQUISITE: A passing grade of "C" or better in Composition 101.There will be a fee required by Black Hawk College.  (ST# 01005A000)

BRITISH LITERATURE (ENGLISH 221, BRITISH LITERATURE 1) – GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: British Literature, a dual credit course, focuses on representative literature from English, Irish, and Welsh authors.  Works span the Anglo Saxon "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales to King Arthur and the Round Table to the Romantic Age with Keats, Byron, & Shelley.  Students will also have the opportunity to read independently and present a choice novel such as Frankenstein, Morte D'Arthur, and others.  Assignments and discussions delve into the various literary genres, cultural connections, and stylistic differences of the times.  An exploration of British literature reflects the evolution of Western Civilization art and culture. THE STUDENT:  Academically capable Juniors and Seniors who enjoy reading different kinds of historical texts.  Many of these texts have influenced today's literary and cinematic worlds.  Students who successfully complete BRITISH LITERATURE will earn credit for an English elective at the college level.  PREREQUISITE: A passing grade of "C" or better in Composition 101.  There will be a fee required by Black Hawk College.  (ST# 01056A000)

AP  ENGLISH: LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION (SEM. 1 - ENGLISH 190 INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE, SEM 2 - ENG 210 - INTRODUCTION TO FICTION)  GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Advanced Placement English, a dual credit course , involves students in both the study and practice of writing and the study of literature.  They will learn to use the modes of discourse and to recognize the assumptions underlying various rhetorical strategies.  Through speaking, listening, and reading, but chiefly through the experience of their own writing, students will become more aware of the resources of language:  connotation, metaphor, irony, syntax, and tone.  Writing assignments will focus on the critical analysis of literature and will include essays in exposition and argument.  Students will also be engaged in the careful reading of literature.  They will intensively study a few representative works of poetry, drama, prose, fiction, and expository writing.  They will concentrate on works of recognized literary merit, worthy of scrutiny because their richness of thought and language challenges the reader. Second semester will emphasize analysis of a novel and shorter works of fiction.  THE STUDENT:  This course is designed for highly capable college-bound seniors.  These students must be willing to commit consistent effort and substantial time to careful study of both literature and composition.  The course work can serve as preparation for those who wish to take the AP English Examination, although taking the exam is not a requirement.  PREREQUISITE:  A passing grade of "C" or better in Composition 101.  COST:  There will be a fee required by Black Hawk College.  (ST# 01006A000)

COLLEGE WRITING - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  This composition course is designed to help students master academic writing for high school and college.  Assignments focus on rhetorical and organizational skills which are expected of any college freshman.  The course includes writing for various purposes, analyzing material and data, and using correct grammatical form.  In addition, the students will be expected to write several longer essays as well as a research paper.  Students will participate in critiquing other papers during peer review sessions.  Students will also learn presentation skills and  combine them with their research skills to prepare a speech. This course could be used to prepare for the dual credit Composition 1 course.  THE STUDENT:  This course is designed for students who have already acquired fundamental writing skills, who wish to improve their composition techniques, and who are willing to meet deadlines.  (ST# 01103A000)

COMMUNICATION SKILLS - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will serve as an English requirement in the CNC Manufacturing Apprenticeship program being offered at Moline High School. It will serve students who are in a career-oriented program, matching the school’s initiative in this area. Students will also be able to earn dual credit through Black Hawk College in a CTE pathway. Upon successful completion of this course, the student shall be able to demonstrate the following skills:  gather, organize, and express ideas in oral and written form; listen and read with concentration, understanding, and discernment; perform research; document sources used in both written and oral presentations; prepare a job application letter, resume, and other business communication; contribute to group discussions as a leader and/or a participant. Does not qualify for NCAA requirements. (ST# 01156A000)

CREATIVE WRITING - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Creative writers must be able to express ideas in a unique way. Creative writing explores many areas of literary expression: poetry, short stories, journal writing, children's fables, multicultural novels, 

ACTING - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  The class introduces the student to beginning acting techniques and theater appreciation.  The course helps students to use the language of theater, create theater, and analyze scripts and performances for meaning and intent.  Students develop lifelong skills such as creative problem-solving, teamwork, relaxation, concentration, movement, voice, improvisation, and audition/interview skills as well as the academic skills of reading and writing.  Does not qualify for NCAA requirements.  THE STUDENT:  This course is geared to a special interest, and it can accommodate students with this interest, regardless of ability. (ST#05055A000)

THEATRE ARTS AND LITERATURE ANALYSIS - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Theatre Arts and Literature Analysis is an intensive course for students who have an interest in theater and wish to study the variety of careers in theater.  The course will include theater criticism, theater history, playwriting, directing, dramaturgy, and the basics of acting and technical theater.  Does not qualify for NCAA requirements.  THE STUDENT:  The students in this class should have a reading ability which allows them to deal with plays and theater reviews.  They should also be capable of some abstract reasoning and produce analytical writing.  (ST#01061A000)

FILM AND LITERATURE ANALYSIS – GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: Film and Literature Analysis is a class for students who have an interest in film.  Utilizing an historical approach to several literature and film genres, students will focus on developing strong analytical writing through the study of short stories, novels, essays, and films. Students should have an understanding of basic literary terms (e.g., narrative techniques, characterization, theme, tone, figurative language, irony) and be able to analyze their use within the works presented in class. Written analysis of the different genres will be expected each quarter. In addition, students will learn to critically view a film by analyzing devices unique to cinema. Does not qualify for NCAA requirements. THE STUDENT: Since several films will be viewed during class, excellent attendance is necessary. Also, the student will be asked to read at least two novels during the semester. Most of the reading and writing assignments will need to be done outside of class. (ST# 11056A000)

HUMANITIES AND LITERATURE – GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Humanities is a study of the various art forms in our culture-architecture, music, literature, film, and visual arts.  Students are asked to evaluate and analyze memorable pieces and the connections of their roots, whether they be from Africa, Asia, Latin America, or Europe.  Students work on organizing their analysis into essay form, a skill that can transfer to college, work, and life in general.  This course promotes critical thinking skills and a greater understanding of cultural literacy.  (ST# 01055A000)

JOURNALISTIC WRITING – GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Journalistic Writing will familiarize students with the fundamentals of news reporting including developing a story, the writing process, publication, and legal considerations. They will put these fundamentals into practical application.  Concentration on the areas of news, reporting, and interviewing will enable the students to better understand the fields of print and broadcast journalism.  The format of the course will include a study of various areas of communication and of the writing that is required for each.  Different areas of writing (news, feature, editorials, and sports) will be investigated for both content and style. Students will be responsible for writing articles and contributing to the school newspaper.  (ST# 11101A000)

MASS MEDIA - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will help students gain an understanding of how mass communication technologies impact society.  Various media explored in this course include advertising, television, film, and various internet platforms.  Students will recognize the role of media in changing political, social, and cultural dynamics.  The completion of several group and independent projects is required.  Does not qualify for NCAA requirements.  THE STUDENT:  This course is meant for students who have an interest in how mass media influences society and who are comfortable using various technologies.  (ST# 11001A000)

SPEECH – GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: Speech is a participation course designed to help the students gain poise and confidence, learn to organize and express their ideas, and become aware of the skills of speaking and listening.  A variety of speech situations will be explored.  This course could be used to prepare for the dual credit Public Speaking course.  THE STUDENT:  This course is geared to a special interest, and it can accommodate any student with this interest, regardless of ability.  (ST# 01151A000)

PUBLIC SPEAKING (PRINCIPLES OF SPEECH COMMUNICATION 101)  - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: This dual credit course offered by Moline High School and Black Hawk College, is considered a “basic requirement” in the majority of four-year colleges.  Students will develop sophisticated communication skills such as oratory, rhetorical structure, voice inflection, register, vocal variety, and audience analysis.  Students will also apply, utilize, and create effective communication enhanced by technology, while they learn to synthesize their research skills in both written and oral circumstance.  If the student has concerns about handling the rigor of a college course, he/she should take Speech that covers the basics of speaking and presenting in a more modulated manner.  THE STUDENT: College-bound students who want an in-depth study of the communication process as well as college credit.  This student is an organized, committed critical thinker who is willing and eager to tackle challenging work, accept and grow from constructive criticism, collaborate, and conference with the instructor as necessary. There will be a fee required by Black Hawk College.  (ST#01151A000)

FRESHMEN ENGLISH - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is designed for students who need a reinforcement of the skills necessary for success in Literature and Language 1. Variables that may determine eligibility will be student growth assessment scores, MAP scores, and teacher evaluation. Students will be placed in this course by teacher recommendation only.  Students will read grade level texts with scaffolding where necessary. Students will develop writing skills that will prepare them for success in Literature and Language 2. (ST#

SOPHOMORE ENGLISH - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is designed for students who need a reinforcement of the skills necessary for success in Literature and Language 2. Variables that may determine eligibility will be student growth assessment scores, MAP scores, and teacher evaluation. Students will be placed in this course by teacher recommendation only.  Students will read grade level texts with scaffolding where necessary. Students will develop writing skills that will prepare them for success in Literature and Language 3 or Junior English. (ST#

JUNIOR ENGLISH - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Continuing with the elements from the freshman and sophomore years, this course will focus on improving a student’s ability to comprehend a variety of texts, both fiction and non-fiction, enhancing the student’s writing skills, and developing public speaking skills. The readings for this course will serve as a basis for writing and presentations. Students who successfully complete this course will be prepared for senior-level courses. This course differs from Literature and Language 3 in that it provides foundational students with added support and instruction in basic English Language Arts skills necessary for success beyond high school. THE STUDENT:  Students will be placed into this course based on teacher recommendations and data that reflect a student’s skill level.(ST# 01003A000)

SENIOR ENGLISH - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  This is a course offering instruction that focuses on developing skills in reading, writing, and grammar usage.  The reading selections will focus on both fiction and non-fiction, and the writing selections will address practical and academic writing. This course is designed to prepare students in reading and writing for post-secondary work. THE STUDENT: The student who enrolls in this course is one who will benefit from a developmental approach to reading and writing to prepare for post-secondary work.  (ST# 01004A000)

TRANSITIONAL ENGLISH - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION: Transitional English is designed to be a skill-building bridge between the self-contained ELL courses and our "mainstream" English courses. The curriculum will encompass speaking and listening opportunities both in small groups and whole class; building student vocabulary, both social and academic; practicing reading strategies to develop comprehension and critical thinking skills in fiction and nonfiction materials; developing writing skills for a variety of audiences; and exploring post-secondary options.  The Transitional English class is for our English language learners who have NOT already taken or passed a Lit & Lang or Junior/Senior English course. Enrollment in this class is restricted. (ST#01009A000)

READING 1 - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  The purpose of Reading 1 is to help freshman students who are reading below grade level, enabling them to become effective readers through a remediation process.  Students’ reading achievement will be increased through a concentrated study of reading skills and strategies.  The class also supports students in their content area courses while reinforcing strategies in vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, and text familiarity.  Students who enroll in this course will also be taking Literature and Language 1 to satisfy their English requirements for graduation.  Placement into Reading 1 is based upon various test scores and teacher recommendation. Does not qualify for English credit or NCAA requirements. THE STUDENT:  This course is designed for the student who needs additional emphasis on reading skills and strategies. (ST# 01066A000)

READING 2 - GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION:  The purpose of Reading 2 is to help sophomore students who are reading below grade level, enabling them to become effective readers through a remediation process.  Students’ reading achievement will be increased through a concentrated study of reading skills and strategies.  The class also supports students in their content area courses while reinforcing strategies in vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, and text familiarity.  Students who enroll in this course will also be taking Literature and Language 2 to satisfy their English requirements for graduation.  Placement into Reading 2 is based upon various test scores and teacher recommendation. Does not qualify for English credit or NCAA requirements. THE STUDENT:  This course is designed for the student who needs additional emphasis on reading skills and strategies.  (ST# 01067A000)