ENGLISH DEPARTMENT NEWS         MUSTANG MUSE

The English Department at San Marin follows a literature-based curriculum that uses core and supplementary works to develop students who are effective communicators who read and understand information, write clearly using standard English and express ideas using a variety of methods. the curriculum is aligned with the California State framework, the State Standards, and the High School Exit Exam.

The core literature is a body of classical works whose merit is unquestioned. these works have been selected because, as the state framework states, "In its capacity to move the human spirit in any age, to involve students and motivate learning with its appeal to universal feelings and needs, and to elevate common experiences to uncommon meaning the language of great, classical literature speaks most eloquently to readers and writers."

The writing focus is expository writing, which not only prepares students for higher education, but also prepares students for communicating effectively as informed, aware employees and citizens. As part of the curriculum, students learn to acquire information, knowledge, and skills by using a variety of methods and apply information, knowledge and skills to solving problems.

All classes include the study of grammar and usage as well as vocabulary development based on the state standards.

Selection for Honors English classes is competetive and is based on the following criteria:

• Submission of an acceptable writing sample
• A 3.3 grade point average in previous English classes
• An 'advanced' level on the California Content Standards in English/Language Arts
• English Department recommandation

English Department Courses

Teacher Pages