Prerequisites: 9th grade English
Length: Two semesters

Critical Reading and Effective Writing is a course that develops both academic and life skills. Concepts are presented in creative and lively ways that reinforce learning goals and engage students. Literary selections include short fiction and poetry from around the globe, modern drama works, and a contemporary novel. Nonfiction selections feature historical correspondence, diaries, logs, and famous courtroom arguments. Life reading skills target forms, applications, and work-related communication. Grammar review and vocabulary development are included in every unit.
Summaries and annotations support fluency and comprehension of all reading material. Robust scaffolding in the form of process guides and graphic organizers helps reluctant writers to internalize strategies and develop composition skills. Select activities target text-handling skills and promote improved performance on commonly assessed literary analysis and response standards. Study sheets support engagement with direct instruction and develop note-taking and study skills.
The writing program builds confidence in young writers by targeting control of organization, effective sentences, and word choice.
The content is based on the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards and is aligned to state standards.