English Department Goals 2022-2023

Revised by Teresa Matranga for 2022-23

Jerri Lynn Levers, Department Chair

Debbie Nishihama, Lead English Teacher

The English Department will promote learning of the Common Core Standards for English Language Arts (ELA) which have been established “to ensure that all students graduate from high school with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college, career, and life” (CCSS Initiative).

The effective use of language is powerful and when practiced and improved becomes more useful throughout our lives.

It is The English Department’s goal to instill in all our students, including students for whom English is their second language, the idea that understanding all forms of literature, and equating them to real life, as a result of practiced reading and writing is not only a school requirement. It is more importantly – a crucial life skill. 

 

Goals:

• Students learn to understand a variety of literary texts through close reading, sharing cultural heritages, exploring historical periods, and making relevant connections to their own lives and to the world.
• Students develop academic literacy and proficiency in literary, expository, analytical, and argumentative reading and writing that will meet the demands of higher education.
• Students master all steps of the writing process to produce final drafts that are organized, concise, and logical.
• Students develop critical thinking skills in order to synthesize information by participating in whole class and group discussions, and through research, essay writing, and independent projects.
• Students improve communication skill through active engagement in a variety of activities that honor different learning styles.
• Students consistently engage in the learning process, both cooperatively and independently, in preparation for college, the workforce, and the global community. 

Additional Goals:

• Provide professional development opportunities for teachers.
• Encourage continual student responsibility and consistent Parent Educator involvement.  
• Recruit qualified English teachers and develop new classes.
• Support new ideas for learning.