English

Freshman
Enrollment in a yearlong English course is required. Placement is based on test scores
and teacher recommendation.

English 9 (YR) Two semesters, two credits, open to freshmen.

The goals of English 9 are to help students grow in appreciation of literature, develop critical thinking skills,
express themselves in an articulate manner both orally and in writing, and to effect a better command of the English
language. Writing skills, with a review of the fundamentals of grammar, are stressed with emphasis on paragraph
structure and the five-paragraph essay format. Plays, essays, and novels are read, studied, and analyzed. A
vocabulary program is also part of the curriculum. Students must complete a required summer reading assignment.

Honors English 9 (YR) Two semesters, two credits, open to freshmen.

Because this is a reading and writing intensive course, it is recommended that students have earned an “A” in their
previous English classes and possess strong literacy skills.

This course is for students who possess superior language arts skills and have the desire to learn at an intense and
accelerated pace. Students will examine the principal literary genres in a varied selection of approximately 15 texts,
ranging from Greek drama to contemporary novels. The focus of the class will be critical analysis of the literature
through discussion and writing. A vocabulary program is also included in the curriculum. Students must complete a
required summer reading assignment.

Sophomore
Enrollment in a yearlong English 10 course is required. In addition, these elective
options (listed under “Senior”) are available to sophomores:
Creative Writing: Fiction Creative Writing: Poetry Debate
Shakespeare Journalistic Writing Mythology

English 10 (YR) Two semesters, two credits, open to sophomores.

The English 10 reading program explores a variety of literary genres, the study of which will develop and advance
those critical and interpretive reading skills introduced in English 9. The first semester focuses on literature
covering novels and plays. The composition portion of this course reviews paragraph development and multi-
paragraph essays, including an emphasis on research skills. Included in the second semester is a research unit,
students will also gain experience in organizing and delivering formal and informal speeches. A vocabulary
program is also part of the curriculum. Students must complete a required summer reading assignment.

Honors English 10: Contemporary (YR) Two semesters, two credits, open to sophomores.
Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of English 9 with an “A” both semesters or completion of Honors English 9.

This course is designed for students interested in gaining insight about the complex world they live in who also
demonstrate superior language arts skills and desire to learn at an accelerated pace. Students will read
approximately ten contemporary works including non-fiction, novels, poems, a memoir, plays, and illustrated
(graphic) novels. Seeking to increase writer representation, this course incorporates BIPOC authors, authors from
around the world. Writing instruction focuses on composing multi-paragraph essays and utilizes the writing
process. Students will explore the research process while writing an analytical essay as well as deliver oral
presentations. Students are expected to complete a summer reading assignment. Content covers mature themes and
language but will be supported accordingly.
BSM Senior High Program of Studies 2023-2024 | 15
English

Honors English 10: Classic (YR) Two semesters, two credits, open to sophomores.
Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of English 9 with an “A” both semesters or completion of Honors English 9.

This course is intended for students who demonstrate superior language arts skills and have the desire to learn at an
accelerated pace. Students read approximately 10 classic and contemporary novels and plays from Greek, European,
and American literature, and selected works of poetry. Writing instruction focuses on composing multi-paragraph
essays, incorporating multiple sources, and employing revision practices throughout the writing process. The course
also includes a research project during which students write an analytical essay as well as deliver formal and
informal oral presentations. A vocabulary program is also integrated into the curriculum. Students must complete a
required summer reading assignment.

16 | BSM Senior High Program of Studies 2023-2024

 English
Junior
Juniors are required to take one of the following options:

Option 1: American Literature and Advanced Composition- one each semester

Option 2: Advanced Composition (S1) and American Studies (S2)

Option 3: AP Language and Composition- full year

With the four exceptions of AP English Literature and Composition, Writing for Justice,
Introduction to Literature: Poetry, Drama, Narrative and Non-Fiction Writing, juniors
may choose to enroll in any English electives listed under “Senior.”

Advanced Composition (S1) or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to juniors.

This course prepares students for college writing assignments developing fundamental writing skills. Students will
develop their own voices as writers and learn to make the structure and form of their writing match its content
through the process of revision. Students will master the basics of grammar, mechanics, and usage as well as
elements of logic and rhetoric. Major assignments include a descriptive essay, a narrative essay, a persuasive essay,
a college application essay, and a cumulative multimedia portfolio. Students must complete a required summer
reading assignment.

American Literature (S1) or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to juniors.

This course focuses on developing a foundation in American Literature while examining American culture as seen
through novels, poetry, history, and art. Students must complete a required summer reading assignment.

American Studies/English (S2) One semester, one credit, open to juniors.

Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of English 10 OR Honors English 10 IN ADDITION TO: Satisfactory

completion of World History OR AP Human Geography.

IN ADDITION, students must enroll in first semester Advanced Composition. Second semester students must enroll
in American Studies English and American Studies Social Studies. This course fulfills the second semester English
requirement.

This course blends US historical events and themes in American literature to provide students with a
comprehensive social, political, economic, and literary history. Five time periods each reflecting different epochs
will be team-taught: Great Depression, World War II, Civil Rights, Cold War Conflict, and Challenges of Modern
American Society. Having both literary and historical figures illuminating the human experience, American Studies
fosters a deeper understanding of the principles, problems, and issues basic to the establishment of our country.
This understanding is essential for students to fully appreciate the complexities of history as it unfolds in modern
times. Students enrolled in this course will meet two consecutive class periods.

BSM Senior High Program of Studies 2023-2024 | 17

English
Senior
Enrollment in one English elective is required per semester. Electives may not be
repeated.

Creative Writing: Fiction (S1) One semester, one credit, open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

In this creative writing course, students will study a multitude of writing techniques used in the craft of short
fiction. Students will read various essays on the craft of fiction, as well as several short stories by authors from
around the world. These stories will vary wildly in subject matter, style, tone, and subgenre. Students will analyze
these stories, and then write original stories of their own. The original work created by the students will represent
the number of styles studied throughout this course. The primary goal for this course is to teach students the nuts
and bolts of fiction, not just how to analyze fiction but how to develop and nourish their own writing practices.

Creative Writing: Poetry (S2) One semester, one credit, open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

In this creative writing course, students will study poetry in its many forms and modes. Students will dive deep into
the tradition of verse, the inner workings of poetic craft, and explore the many fascinating techniques of developing
and writing their own poetry. During each unit, students will survey the poetic form, the historical relevance of that
form, and read a multitude of examples from the poets who have operated–or continue to write–in that form.
Ultimately, students will appreciate the lineage of poets and writers that have come before them; in turn, they will
see the relevance of their own creative work as a part of this long legacy of literary genius. Students will understand
that poetry is not only a vehicle of self-expression, but a mode that can explore the depths of the collective human
condition, of community, of protest, of the heart, [etc.].

Debate (S1) or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

Students in this course will learn effective argumentation and the principles of debate. They will study valid
persuasion techniques as a defense against irrational argument and use these techniques to influence others.
Students will be involved in researching topics, learning debate techniques and terms, and improving speaking
skills. Many types of debate will be covered in the class. No previous experience in debate is necessary, and
students may enroll in the course without being on the school's debate team.

Film Studies (S1) or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to juniors and seniors.

This course is for students who are genuinely interested in film as a contemporary means of communication and art.
The course will cover the history of film along with various genres from classic to contemporary. Students will be
expected to write often, putting into practice critical thinking skills as they respond to various films.
Students will have the opportunity to make their own digital short films. Because of the high level of writing and
discussing, the course is much more than just watching movies.
This course does not meet the core course requirements of the NCAA.

18 | BSM Senior High Program of Studies 2023-2024

 English
Great American Works (S1) or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to juniors and seniors.

This discussion-based course is for students who want to have a grasp of American texts as they prepare for
college. It picks up where American Literature leaves off, focusing on great novels mostly from the Twentieth
Century. Students will explore how American novels reflect the diversity of the American experience and consider
what makes a novel “great.”

Mythology (S1) or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

This course covers a wide range of myths from various societies and time periods. While reading these stories of
myth, students will examine universal archetypes, elements of culture, and human nature. Ultimately students will
have the opportunity to critically examine contemporary culture and how their own story is part of it. The primary
texts will be Edith Hamilton’s Mythology and Joseph Campbell’s The Power of Myth, but the course will also
pursue many other avenues for studying myth in the modern world.

Non-Fiction Writing (S1) or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to seniors.

This course focuses on non-fiction essay writing and is geared toward students who have completed either
Advanced Composition or AP Language and Composition. With an emphasis on the writing process, this class is
taught as a writing workshop with students actively working in small and large groups. Students will cultivate their
writing in a variety of genres, culminating in a final portfolio of revised and original content.

Science Fiction Literature (S1) or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to juniors and seniors.

This course is for students who want to examine the genre of science fiction as important and deserving of
intelligent consideration and commentary. Using short stories, this course examines the development of science
fiction over time. Novels will be read to examine what this genre – which is filled with what seem to be non-
realities and impossibilities – has to offer to our present-day world and issues.

Shakespeare (S2) One semester, one credit, open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

Several of the major plays of Shakespeare will be read and discussed in this course, with special emphasis on
Shakespeare’s understanding of human nature as shown by his character portrayals. Shakespeare will be considered
from the point of view of his timelessness, his showmanship, and his relevance for modern teenagers. This course is
intended for the student seriously interested in interpreting, analyzing, and enjoying Shakespeare’s work.

Writing for Justice (S1) One semester, one credit, open to seniors.

This course focuses on the writing that has inspired and accompanied social change. We will analyze historical
and contemporary works and their place in the continuous dialogue for rights in our country’s history. Students will
study the relationship of medium and message through a wide variety of sources and voices in both primary
documents and secondary texts, including pamphlets, letters, speeches, sermons, legal documents, poems, short
stories, and beyond. Finally, students will practice the power of writing in a real-world context, empowering
them to use their skills to make a difference in the world.

BSM Senior High Program of Studies 2023-2024 | 19

English
Journalism
Editorial Leadership: Knight Errant (YR) Two semesters, two credits, open to juniors and seniors.

Prerequisite: one semester of another journalism class.

NOTE: Seniors who choose to enroll in this course as their sole English course must be aware that colleges and
universities may not accept this as a core curriculum English course

Juniors enrolled in Editorial Leadership must enroll in required English courses.

Students who take this hands-on course will oversee production of the print and online editions of the
Knight Errant. They will be responsible for all aspects of the publication. As the editorial board of the Knight
Errant, students in this class will coordinate the work of the students in Journalistic Writing, Videography and
Digital Storytelling, Photojournalism, and Graphic Design classes, in addition to creating their own content for
publication. Each student in the class will be assigned a specific leadership role. This course does not meet the core
course requirements of the NCAA.

Journalistic Writing (S1) and/or (S2) One semester, one credit, open to sophomores, juniors, and
seniors.
This course may be repeated.

Sophomores and juniors enrolled in Journalistic Writing must enroll in required grade-level English courses.

Students who take this hands-on course will produce content for the print and online editions of the Knight Errant.
They will work in conjunction with students in the Editorial Leadership class who will guide them through the
composition process, from the conception of ideas to the final published product. Students in this class will explore
the different styles of reporting encompassed in the Knight Errant, including interview-based stories for the news,
sports, and feature sections as well as opinions and reviews. With an emphasis on clear, concise, and engaging
storytelling, this class will help students develop and hone their reporting skills and provide them with an authentic
audience for their content. Students enrolled in Journalistic Writing as seniors will be responsible for writing and
taking photographs for their assigned stories. Students enrolled in Journalistic Writing as sophomores or juniors or
seniors who are taking an additional English elective will be able to choose how they present their stories.
Photographers and videographers’ welcome!

Yearbook Staff - Sangraal (YR) Two semesters, two credits.

Prerequisite: Instructor approval. Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors.
This course will allow students to learn about graphic design principles, photography, and journalism through a
hands-on manner while producing the Senior High yearbook. Staff members will be actively engaged in the
production process throughout the school year. Staff responsibilities will range from conducting interviews, taking
photographs, writing copy, plan and designing page layouts. Enrollment does not qualify as an English credit.

Yearbook: Editorial Leadership: Sangraal (YR) Two semesters, two credits.

Prerequisite: Sangraal Staff and instructor approval. Open to juniors and seniors.
Editorial Leadership: Sangraal is open to students who have been assigned editorial positions on the upcoming
Sangraal publication. The production process will be further explored through performing editorial duties, such as
supervising staff members, editing proofs, and communicating with the production plant. Enrollment does not qualify
as an English credit.

20 | BSM Senior High Program of Studies 2023-2024

 English
Advanced Placement
Junior
AP Language and Composition (YR) Two semesters, two credits, open to juniors.
Recommended: Satisfactory completion of English 10 OR Honors English 10.

This accelerated writing course is taken in lieu of Advanced Composition and American Literature and is designed
for those students who possess advanced writing skills. It is designed to further challenge those students as writers
and to prepare them for more complex writing situations. Students will be required to complete a major writing
project along with a variety of formal, informal, and in-class essays. In addition, students will be required to read
several texts over the course of the year, focusing on American culture and rhetoric in fiction and nonfiction pieces.
This is a reading and writing intensive course. Students must complete a required summer reading assignment.
Because this is a reading and writing intensive course, it is recommended that students have earned As or Bs in
their previous English classes.
Senior

AP English Literature and Composition (YR) Two semesters, two credits, open to seniors.
Recommended: Satisfactory completion of both Advanced Composition and American Literature OR AP Language
and Composition.

This is an intense, college-level course in the reading and critical analysis of literature with a heavy emphasis on
formal expository composition. A range of literature representative of different genres and historical periods will be
studied, including approximately eight novels, a dozen short stories, six plays, and a wide selection of poetry. This
yearlong course is a preparation for the AP Literature exam that is given in mid-May. Thus, it is expected that
students taking this course will also take the AP Literature exam. Students must complete a required summer
reading assignment. Because this is a reading and writing intensive course, it is recommended that students have
earned As or Bs in their previous English classes.

College in the Schools

Introduction to Literature: Poetry, Drama, Narrative (LITR, WI)
Four college credits from the University of Minnesota. One semester, one credit, open to seniors.

One semester, one credit, open to juniors and seniors. Four college credits from the University of Minnesota.

This is a writing-intensive course that also meets the Literature Core requirement. From epic battles against
monsters in legendary kingdoms to stories about characters in worlds like our own, literature engages us with the
diverse perspectives and experiences that make up our communities and world. This course introduces students to
ways of understanding and appreciating literature in English across cultures and historical periods. Through this
course, we will develop skills to help us understand literature, especially the ability to read language closely (a skill
valuable in many disciplines beyond literature).

We will explore how writers use language and literary aspects, such as genre, voice, tone, symbol, motif, theme,
imagery, narrative, and form. We also will learn how to write about literature, sharing our interpretations of how
and why literary works have meaning for ourselves and others, while viewing them through critical cultural lenses,
including ways to understand how gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and class can function in literary texts.

BSM Senior High Program of Studies 2023-2024 | 21