A decisive course in which all language skills are sharpened and an emphasis is placed upon clear communication. Literature is approached in more depth; analysis is begun with the goal of personal response. Essays, building on previous skill study, show an increased awareness of coherence, clarity and unity. Punctuation, in an effort to demonstrate its value, is emphasized. Experience in dramatic production during class time is also afforded students working at this level.

 

Students work with a variety of topics and modes in order to demonstrate an ability to write sustained coherent passages of narration, description and exposition. The literature part of the course consists of poetry, prose, drama and non-fiction with an emphasis on Canadian content. Students are expected to handle appropriate sight selections of poetry and the short story. Extensive reading in fiction and drama is required, and students are expected to respond in terms of the selections chosen for the structural aspects of those works. Strong emphasis is placed on responding personally to literature.

This pre-AP program respects Quebec Ministry of Education requirements, continuing to familiarize students with the writing process. It recognizes the need for AP English course preparation. Students experience extensive and in-depth reading and begin to develop the necessary critical analysis skills.

 

AP Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. It is the first of two courses comprising the AP Capstone diploma. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies and foundational, literary and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts and personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in written essays and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team.

 

Students work with a variety of topics and modes in order to demonstrate an ability to write sustained, coherent passages of narration, description and exposition. The literature part of the course consists of poetry, prose, drama and non-fiction, with an emphasis on Canadian content. Students are expected to handle appropriate sight selections of poetry and short stories. Extensive reading in fiction and drama is required, and students are expected to respond in terms of the structural aspects of those works. Strong emphasis is placed on responding personally to literature. Students work at a deeper level in preparation for the Quebec Ministry of Education Language Arts exam.