This year-long course is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college literature course. Students engage in the careful reading and critical analysis of a wide range of literature. Students write interpretations of literature based on structure, style and themes, as well as the author’s use of literary elements. Students identify the social and historical values reflected in the literature. Through the close reading of literary texts, students examine the ways writers use language. Students write formal, extended analyses of literature as well as timed in-class responses. Emphasis is placed on writing expository and analytical essays. This course follows College Board guidelines. Students taking this course have required summer readings, which are the basis for initial fall assignments.