ENGLISH ONE: AN INTRODUCTION 2008-2009
As your introduction to the English Department at Marin Academy, English I strives to help you learn the following core principles:
Meaning is formed in the interaction of text and reader, and is deepened in discussion among readers.
Writing is a means of self-knowledge and self-realization, as well as a way of understanding texts.
The ability to work collaboratively and to speak effectively in public is vital life skills.
In view of these principles, we emphasize
• close analysis of text, both individually and collectively;
• writing in response to text, formally and informally;
• writing to explore and examine personal experience and perspectives;
• scholarly research and correct citing of sources
• collaborative group project work;
• public speaking, again both formal and informal.
Technology, while not a value in itself, is viewed an essential tool in the pursuit of the above goals.
The Curriculum:
The first-year course provides a foundation of skills, while fostering the spirit of inquiry and the practice of independent literary analysis that are the core of Marin Academy’s English curriculum.
The course uses Homer’s Odyssey as a core text, and is structured in thematic units year-long, springing from that text. In each unit, students will read a portion of Homer’s epic in combination with related texts, both classical and modern. In addition, writing skill-units will be partnered with thematic units, including personal narrative, poetry, expository writing, fiction and drama. Connections with World Civilization curriculum will be a further part of the curriculum. Major texts will include the Fagles translation of Homer’s Odyssey and Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare. In addition, we will use collections of short stories and poetry, and several films considered as text.