COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Each department at FRA is led by a department chair whose responsibility it is to maintain and develop curriculum and assist in implementing best practices in their respective curricular area for grades 5–12. The courses below represent thoughtful and intentional design to best prepare FRA students for the rigor of college academics.
COURSE OPTIONS: English I or English I (H) (9) English II or English II (H) (10) English III or AP English: Language and Composition (11) AP English Literature and Composition (12) English IV: Critical Thinking & Writing* (12) Mandatory for non-AP students English IV: Shakespeare on Stage and Film * (12)
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT All students must complete four years of English. All students take English I and II, and standard and Honors are offered in both. Junior year, students take either English III or AP Language and Composition. Senior year, students take AP Literature and Composition or a pairing of Critical Thinking and Writing plus a choice of one English IV focused seminar. A teacher recommendation, high averages in prerequisite courses, and a strong performance on standardized tests are required for all Honors and AP courses. ENGLISH (4 CREDITS REQUIRED) The English curriculum is based on the goal of developing critical thinking and strong reading, writing, and speaking skills. Sequential courses offer the continuing practice of grammar skills, the building of an extensive vocabulary, and the development of strong research and writing skills. Senior seminar electives provide an opportunity to study specific areas and to strengthen student writing skills. 15 | FranklinRoadAcademy.com
English IV: Fictional Worlds: Tolkien Studies* (12) English IV: Creative Writing* (12) English IV: Cultural Conflict in the Novel* (12) *One-semester course ENGLISH I: GENRES IN WORLD LITERATURE 1 Credit // Grade 9 Through engaging with a variety of texts and genres, English I hones four primary skills: reading complex texts, writing, thinking critically, and communicating effectively. In addition, English I equips students with skills such as time management, selfadvocacy, and professional communication so as to prepare them for success throughout their entire high school career. This course develops a students’ ability to formulate, articulate, and defend complex claims. Vocabulary and grammar skills are acquired independently through the online programs of Membean and No Red Ink and are also strengthened within the student’s own reading and writing.
