SAHS Academics > English Department Web Site > Literature Base & Program of Study

In grades 6 and 7, students receive a full period of direct instruction in strategic reading along with a full period of instruction in writing, literature study, grammar and usage, spelling, listening and speaking, and research.  Students study literature based on high interest themes, integration with science and social studies topics, and self-selection.

In grade 8, students receive a full period of language arts instruction.  Students study literature based on high interest themes, integration with science and social studies, and self-selection.

Our middle school program is a team approach with children of mixed abilities in most classes.  Support for exceptionalities maybe provided by co-teachers or gifted support staff.

In grade 9, students will receive a full semester of language arts instruction with a survey of American literature.  In grade 10, students will receive a full semester of language arts instruction with a survey of British literature.

Grades 9 and 10 will incorporate a strong base of skill instruction including instruction that will directly address the assessment anchors provided by the state of Pennsylvania for both PSSA tests and the upcoming Keystone exams.  Our goal is to prepared students for either assessment system by 10th grade.  A system of benchmark assessment has been put in place to monitor both student achievement and program efficacy toward that goal.

In grades 11 and 12, students will select from a variety of quarter electives designed to compliment student interest and the career pathways.  In order to incorporate some contemporary readings in these courses, students may have choices from among several titles in a given unit.  While the literature selected is of high quality, it may not suit the preferences of all learners.  Parents should discuss literature options with their children and the course instructors as those occasions may warrant. 

The secondary language arts program will continue with a robust advanced placement program in both English Language and Composition and English Literature and Composition along with second English credit electives. 

Finally, the language arts program offers co-taught semester courses for students in grades 9-12 who need the support of learning-specialists to achieve or maintain proficient status in reading and writing.

Use the links below to read more about selecting courses in the language arts program.

• Strands
• Electives

Strands
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As explained in the Program of Studies, there are two strands: Academic and Honors which includes two advanced placement courses.

• AP Language and literature presents the highest challenge in literature study.
• AP Language and Composition presents the highest challenge in the craft of composition.
  
  * See Advanced Placement for details.

The honors strand presents a very high level of challenge in both literature study and language arts skills. Students electing honors work should be prepared for academic rigor and vigorous time demands.

The academic strand presents a high level of challenge to college bound students. Motivated students with sound achievement and collegiate goals should not hesitate to enter this path.

The co-taught courses are designed to support motivated students with difficulty in language arts. Visit the Special Programs section for more information.

Electives

Journalism, Creative Writing, and Theater Arts are offered as electives and can each be taken a number of times for increased rigor and additional elective credit.