AP LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION (Gr. 12)
Are you captivated by the world of literature?
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey of intellectual exploration, where creativity meets challenge in a vibrant learning environment?
If the prospect of delving into novels, plays, and poetry beyond the typical English class curriculum excites you, then the AP English Literature & Composition course awaits your enrollment!
This college-level, 12-credit program is not just an ordinary English class—it's an immersive experience crafted to mirror the intensity of an introductory-level university Literature course. Aligned with The College Board's rigorous standards, the course invites students to engage in the meticulous study and critical analysis of representative works spanning various genres and time periods. Successful completion of this program not only earns you credit for AP Literature & Composition but also for Literary Studies 12 and English Studies 12. In May, students have the option of taking the College Board AP Literature exam at the cost of approximately $130 CAD. If a student takes this exam and achieves a high enough score, they can earn three university credits.
At the heart of AP Literature & Composition is the objective of fostering mature habits of critical thinking as independent readers and writers. Through intentional and thorough exploration of poetry, prose, and drama, students develop the skills to analyze literature with depth and nuance. Be prepared for a substantial amount of independent reading and study as this course thrives on active participation and lively classroom discussions, providing a platform for assessing and refining your ideas.
While this course is a haven for literature enthusiasts, it requires a commitment to hard work and dedication. We recommend a background in Literary Studies 10/Composition 10 and/or English First Peoples Literary Studies with Elaborations 11. To ensure success in this challenging endeavor, we advise that students have achieved a score of Proficient (B/73%) or Extending (A/86%) in their previous English courses.
Embark on this literary odyssey, where the joy of reading meets the thrill of intellectual challenge. AP English Literature & Composition awaits those ready to embrace the rewarding journey of literary exploration and critical analysis. See Ms. Shirlaw for more details!
AP LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION (Gr. 11)
The Advanced Placement Language and Composition course is designed to cultivate critical reading, writing, and rhetorical skills essential for success in post-secondary and beyond. This course engages students in the study of language as a powerful tool for communication and persuasion. Through a rigorous curriculum, students will explore a variety of texts including essays, speeches, novels, visual texts, documentaries, films, and articles, spanning different genres, time periods, and perspectives.
The course is structured around three main components:
Rhetorical Analysis: Students will develop the ability to analyze and deconstruct the rhetorical strategies employed in written and visual texts through close examination.
Argumentative Writing: Emphasizing the art of persuasion, students will hone their skills in crafting compelling arguments. Students will engage in writing tasks that require them to articulate and defend their perspectives with clarity and precision.
Synthesis and Research: Through independent research and synthesizing multiple perspectives, students will enhance their ability to construct well-reasoned, evidence-based arguments.
The course will also focus on refining language usage, stylistic choices, and rhetorical devices to elevate students' writing to a sophisticated and nuanced level. Additionally, students will participate in regular class discussions, collaborative projects, and presentations to enhance their oral communication skills. Ultimately, AP Language and Composition prepares students to navigate the complexities of language and rhetoric, equipping them with the skills necessary for success in college, careers, and adult life.
Note: There is an optional exam in May at the cost of $135.00 CAD. If a student gets a high enough score on this exam, they may be able to obtain credit for a first-year university English course.