This course explores the evolution of the American literary tradition from the Native American oral tradition up to contemporary literature. Emphasis is placed on careful reading, interpretation, writing and analysis of poetry, non-fiction, short stories, and novels.  Through the works listed below we will be discovering what an American is and who we are as members of society.

Students will also explore writing strategies that will help them advance their skills in both academic and workplace writing and communication situations.

Students will engage in critical study of works of American Literature including the written, oral, theatrical, and other forms.

Students will continue to develop their skills by taking part in various exercises such as writing, oratory, and other forms.

Students will complete various forms of assessment, demonstrating their knowledge of American Literature as well as their ability to create a position on the work and support it.

Aufses, Robin D., ed. Conversations in American Literature: Language, Rhetoric, Culture. Ed.

    Shea, Scanlon, Aufses. Boston: Bedford/St. Martins, 2015. Print.

Vocabulary Workshop Level F Enhanced

Hawthorne, Nathaniel. The Scarlet Letter and Other Writings. Ed. Leland Person. New York:

W. W. Norton, 2005. Print.

Twain, Mark. Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Ed. Thomas Cooley. 3rd edition. New York:

W.W. Norton, 1999. Print.

Summer Reading Book Choice

Required Materials:

Notebook with Ruled Paper, Pocket Folder, Salpointe Gmail Account and student wifi account, Pens/Pencils/Highlighters, 3x5 cards, 8-pk sticky notes.

BYOD: I encourage the use of 21st century tools in my classroom. I often assign work that requires web-based applications, word processing technologies, web searching capabilities. I have some laptop computers to loan to students for class activities. If a student has a personal laptop or a tablet, I strongly encourage that they bring the device to class regularly.