English

The English Department strives to foster the understanding and appreciation of language, literature and writing. English courses are intended to sharpen critical thinking and reading skills and to develop a more creative and sophisticated writing style. Students who read, write, listen and speak well will be able to comprehend others and to achieve greater self-understanding and self-expression. Since the learning process extends across all disciplines, the critical thinking, reading and writing skills honed in English are applicable in all other subjects. With the ability to express themselves clearly and effectively, students will maximize their academic, civic and social potentials.

Requirements

1. Any student who fails either semester of ninth, tenth, or eleventh grade English must satisfy this credit requirement in order to graduate. Students are strongly encouraged to fulfill credit requirements before they begin the following year of English.  If circumstances arise that prevent this from happening, a student may begin the following year’s English class, but must still recover that lost credit as soon as possible in order to satisfy the graduation requirement.  

2. Students may not schedule more than one English course at a time for English credit.  Any English electives—if available—would be taken for elective credit but not to replace required English courses.

3. Students in need of make-up credit must complete an approved course from one of the following options:  summer school, online coursework, or a local community college course.  

4. Seniors who fail first semester English must take the second semester course at  Hamilton-Wenham and must take an additional approved English course outside the  school (such as an evening course at a neighboring high school or  college or an online course) to be eligible for graduation.

5. Seniors who fail second semester English will not be able to graduate with their class.

6. Students must successfully complete all required papers in order to pass English and receive credit. (See English Department Paper Policy on the school website.)

Course Offerings