English Department

Teachers

English 9- Teacher- Katie Russell

This course aims to equip students to deal with higher-level thinking and critical reading while reinforcing and building on previously learned skills. Students will practice their critical reading and writing skills throughout the year. We will work on critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are required for success in college, career, and life. Students will understand how to take charge of their learning and discover what works best for them as they study and expand their writing, reading, thinking, and speaking abilities. Some of the activities students will engage in are: learning to write the perfect paragraph, constructing sentences with flair and style, essay writing, learning to work together through peer evaluations, collaborative learning, speaking in front of the class, literary analysis, and creative writing.

English 10- Teacher- Kilikina Vega-Richards

The ultimate goal for this class is to expose students to American culture, heritage, and history through study of our literature; and, to continue advancement towards more mature, refined writing skills. The textbook used is Glencoe Literature: American Literature.

British Literature- Teacher- Kilikina Vega-Richards

Students will learn to appreciate a wide range of the best of British literature, to understand both personally and academically, emotionally and intellectually, what is most compelling about the writers and works they study. Students will gain a good introductory grasp of the history and development of the British literary tradition and learn to write cogently and clearly about the works they read and the tradition these works have helped form. Students will improve their ability to express themselves in writing and speech. Students will improve their ability to express themselves in writing and speech, published using various technologies. The textbook used is Glencoe Literature: British Literature.

Speech- Teacher-Peter Fackenthall

In this course students will learn about and practice the art of public speaking. Students will be given the opportunity to study great speeches, practice public speaking skills, and analyze various speeches. Students will write and present various types of speeches and presentations. Not only will students learn how to give effective speeches, they will also learn what makes a good listener. Students will read, listen to, and watch different types of speeches and learn about the different genres of public speaking. Students will understand I Peter 3:15 in the light of their responsibility to communicate with eloquence, truth, and respect.

Creative Writing- Teacher- Kilikina Vega-Richards

The Creative Writing course is designed for students who enjoy writing as a form of art and personal expression. In this course, students will explore the elements of numerous literary genres (short fiction, poetry, drama, film) and the power of both print and multimedia formats. To develop original writing pieces, students will engage in writing workshops, literary element development lessons, writing/author studies, and peer reviews/conferences. To show evidence of writing development throughout the course, students will be required to maintain Writer’s Notebooks that may be developed digitally or in print. Finally, students will design, edit, and contribute writing pieces to a literary magazine that we will create for the school.

Journalism & Media Literacy- Teacher- Katie Russell

This class is designed to introduce the student to the fundamental elements of news writing, page layout, and photography. Students will learn the terms and concepts of the journalism, including the history of the field and the ethics of journalism. Students will be collaborating in groups on research projects. Classes will include discussions, workshops, group and individual meetings, writing, revising, and publishing. Students will read and discuss recently published articles that have appeared in print or online, and will also read and evaluate some examples of creative journalism. The textbook used is Student Journalism and Media Literacy.

YEarbook- Teacher- Katie Russell

This class offers students leadership opportunities to create and publish Rainier Vista, Auburn Adventist Academy’s yearbook. Students are given opportunities to hold editorial positions and work as part of a team. This class teaches valuable skills in organization, responsibility, communication, and teamwork.

Drama Literature- Teacher- Kilikina Vega-Richards

In this semester course, students will interpret various pieces of dramatic literature in classroom discussions, group performances, projects, and writing. They will be able to look at dramatic literature from various perspectives and gain a better understanding and appreciation of theatrical conventions. A variety of genres such as Greek and early theatre, comedy, tragedy, modern realistic drama, and musicals will be studied.

Film Literature- Teacher- Kilikina Vega-Richards

This semester course focuses on four objectives: to familiarize students with film genres, terminology, and techniques; to analyze film through literary modes; to sharpen critical analysis of all aspects of film; and to instill an appreciation of film as a cultural medium and an art form, not just entertainment.

Advanced Writing- Teacher- Kilikina Vega-Richards

Advanced Writing is an advanced course in argumentative writing. Students will write extended essays based on documented research. The course will also focus on information literacy, specifically students’ ability to access, evaluate, and use information effectively to complete a variety of written assignments. Students will gain additional practice in audience analysis, critical reading and thinking, and writing for professional and academic purposes.

World Literature- Teacher- Katie Russell

World Literature is a Junior/Senior elective focusing on reading and analysis of literary works from countries of different origins. Students will participate in various projects, discussions, and Socratic Seminars throughout the course. Literature focus includes, but is not limited to: ancient literature, African literature, Asian literature, European literature, and Iranian literature.

College Writing- (EarlyU program)

Fulfilled in partnership with Andrews University.