SUMMER READING REQUIREMENT
All students enrolled at Cathedral will be required to read at least one book during the summer break from a selected reading list that addresses the Holy Cross Core Values. A series of journals reflecting upon the reading of these books will be due on the second day of school. More information about this will be available on the English Department Webpage beginning in mid-May.
SPECIAL DEPARTMENT POLICIES
1. Placement levels are determined by past academic performance and placement test scores. Movement between levels is possible after consultation with student, parents, teacher, and counselor.
2. Honors students will take X Debate (may substitute ACP Public Speaking). Honors students will take AP Language & Composition junior year, this course satisfies the Cathedral Composition requirement.
3. Academic and CP students will take Academic Composition and Speech junior or senior year. ACP Public Speaking can satisfy the Speech requirement if taken during senior year.
4. Students enrolled in the Language Support Program will take two semester of Fundamentals of Writing sophomore year. This course satisfies the Cathedral Composition requirement.
ACADEMIC LEVELS IN THE ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
Honors classes are designed for those students who are self-motivated readers, writers, and thinkers. These classes are the most rigorous and are intended to prepare students for AP classes. Honors classes challenge students to think independently and to write thoroughly and thoughtfully about their ideas. To that end, students in honors classes read more works independently. Less class time is spent discussing plot; more time is spent discussing themes and how writers develop such themes. Classroom discussion is an essential element of an honors class; therefore, students are expected to be active participants in these discussions. Writing skills are practiced with an emphasis on maturing the students’ writing in terms of depth of thought, style, and cogency. Use of proper grammar/usage is expected. Students have the option of selecting either AP or ACP during their junior and senior year.
Academic classes are designed for students who want to feel confident to think independently about works of literature. Students read assigned texts then discuss them in a classroom setting. Methods of interpretation and the process of how a writer conveys ideas are discussed. Emphasis is placed on literary terms and devices. Writing skills are practiced regularly with an emphasis on helping the writer understand the strategies of writing with clarity and without errors. Use of proper grammar/usage is emphasized.
College Prep classes are designed to help students who may need additional support in their writing and/or reading abilities to better prepare themselves for the rigor of college. College Prep students spend time dissecting and discussing both fiction and non-fiction works. Students work collaboratively and independently to determine a writer’s main ideas and the way those ideas are conveyed. Writing skills are practiced regularly, and an emphasis is placed on writing essays that are not only correct but also show independent thought and understanding. Use of proper grammar/usage is practiced.
Movement between academic levels is encouraged to occur at the end of the semester unless endorsed by the teacher.
English 9 (College Prep)
C111CF/C111CS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
None.
Course Description:
Genre-survey course building reading and writing skills necessary for success in high school and college. Strengthening reading comprehension and annotation skills in fiction and non-fiction texts. Independently read and produce writing and projects throughout the school year. Academic research and nonfiction analytical skills culminate in a formal 2-3 page research paper in the spring. Composition skills focus on development of thesis statements, well-developed body paragraphs, introductions and conclusions, grammar and mechanics, MLA formatting, and new vocabulary acquisition.
English 9 (Academic)
C111AF/C111AS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
None.
Course Description:
The foundation for the following three years of high school English is established. Included is background information on Shakespeare, Greek mythology, grammar, and vocabulary skills, to prepare the student to independently read more complex material. Students read multiple genres, including short stories, epic poetry, novels, and Shakespearean drama to analyze themes, literary elements, and plot structures. The student’s writing includes annotating, summarizing, and analyzing both nonfiction and fiction assignments, culminating in various assignments including both short and in-depth research papers. Both informal and formal oral presentation skills are developed.
English 9 (Honors)
C111XF/C111XS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
None.
Course Description:
English 9X explores the foundations of language and literature, including genre study and writing skills. Readings will include: nonfiction, poetry, Greek and Shakespearean drama, and the novel. Literary terms, annotation skills, and effective discussion strategies are introduced. Writing instruction includes prewriting, composing including construction of a thesis statement, peer editing, and revising. Students hone outlining skills, sentence structure, and paragraph development. Writing assignments will include reflection, analysis, and persuasion. Grammar includes identification and usage of the parts of speech. Vocabulary study is driven by content. Students must be able to work at an accelerated pace and assume responsibility for individual achievement as a result of their strong work ethic.
English 10 (College Prep)
C112CF/C112CS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of English 9.
Course Description:
This course is an analytical and historical study of American literature from colonial times to present day. An emphasis is placed on thematic understanding and investigation of literary art forms and vocabulary acquisition. Students read, understand, and respond to various selections from American literature while analyzing organizational patterns and evaluating various authors’ positions. Students combine the strategies of narration, exposition, persuasion, and description in written and oral presentations. They write coherent and focused essays that show a well-defined point of view and tightly reasoned argument. While delivering focused and coherent oral presentations, students convey clear and distinct perspectives and solid reasoning. Finally, they demonstrate a command of standard English writing conventions and the research, organizational and drafting strategies of the writing process and exhibit an awareness of audience and purpose.
English 10 (Academic)
C112AF/C112AS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of English 9.
Course Description:
In this course, we explore American literature from indigenous cultures through contemporary literature. We pursue thematic understanding for a wide variety of texts: sermons, speeches, poetry, essays, short stories, journals, letters, works of art, films, and novels. Students will hone their critical reading/thinking and showcase those skills in writing constructed responses and essays. We place a high value on grammar and mechanics, improving our skills through an iterative and collaborative writing process. Studies culminate in a research paper that focuses on the critical analysis of an American poem.
English 10 (Honors)
C112XF/C112XS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of English 9.
Course Description:
With American literature from colonial times to the present day – represented by Puritan literature, Revolutionary authors, Romantic poetry and short stories, The Scarlet Letter, The Great Gatsby, and drama of the Great Migration – students investigate literary art forms and vocabulary acquisition. The study of grammar continues with the analysis of sentences through phrase and clause structures. Writing assessments strengthen analytical, communication, and creative skills. Additionally, a four to five page research paper focuses on the critical analysis of an American poem.
English 11 (College Prep)
C113CF/C113CS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of English 10.
Course Description:
A survey of British literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to the 21st century. The course operates at a pace that provides students with time to read, interpret, analyze, communicate, and write. Reading and understanding text, as well as annotating and note taking, are prioritized. Students will be assessed in traditional ways and also work on individual and group projects. Students engage in a research essay with a systematic approach in the second semester. This course also offers the introduction, review, and application of vocabulary exercises for SAT and ACT practice.
English 11 (Academic)
C113AF/C113AS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of English 10.
Course Description:
This course is an analytical and historical study of classical and contemporary literature. Students will examine the complex interplay between fear and love as driving forces in human behavior. Students will identify literary elements and analyze content for meaning. Emphasis on critical thinking skills through assessments such as class discussion, small group projects, and a variety of writing strategies, including literature-based essays, one four to five page research paper, reader response journals, and creative projects. Learn and use new vocabulary taken from the major texts.
AP English Language and Composition (Advanced Placement) (Honors)
C123XF/C123XS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of English 10 (Honors), LSP English 11, or by permission of the instructor. This course is for juniors.
Course Description:
Analyze nonfiction prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts to become skilled writers who can compose for a variety of purposes. Examine the way traditional conventions and resources of language contribute to effective writing. The course emphasizes the expository, analytical, and argumentative writing through the critical analysis and interpretation of these texts. Student writings will encompass the use of argument, synthesis, and rhetorical strategies. Students are required to take the AP exam.
*This class includes the required Cathedral composition curriculum, so these students will not take a separate Composition class.
English 12 (Academic)
C114AF/C114AS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of English 11.
Course Description:
English 12A is a world literature course emphasizing literary analysis and the understanding of cultural, historical, and religious ideas found in literature. In order to further develop research and writing skills prior to college entrance, a five-page research paper is required; in addition, students can expect three to five formal essay assignments each semester.
AP English Literature and Composition (Advanced Placement) (Honors)
C115XF/C115XS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Completion of AP English Language and Composition with at least a “B” average and teacher recommendation. This course is for seniors. Students who have successfully completed 11A have the option of taking the course only with the permission of the course instructor. A writing sample will be required.
Course Description:
AP English Literature and Composition engages students in the careful reading and critical analysis of classical literature. The college-level course includes intensive study of The Iliad, Medea, Inferno, Doctor Faustus, Frankenstein, Merchant of Venice, and Silence. Writing is an integral part of the course. During the first semester, students write a five to seven-page literary research paper which negotiates differing critical perspectives. Students read two works independently over the course of the year and write papers over each work. Students who enroll in this course should be highly motivated and should work well independently and in small groups. Participation in class discussions is an essential element of this course. Students are required to take the AP exam in the spring.
*Course Fee*
ACP English, W131 (Dual Credit) (Honors)
C122XF 1 Semester 1 Credit
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of AP English Language and Composition. Students who have successfully completed Academic English 11 have the option of taking the course only with the permission of the course instructor. A writing sample will be required.
Course Description:
W131 is a one-semester Indiana University course that offers instruction and practice in the critical reading and writing skills required for college-level work, with an emphasis on written assignments that call for summary, critique, analysis, and arguments based on nonfiction sources. The purpose of this course is to prepare students for the rigor of writing throughout college. The focus is on scholarly investigation of sources, critical thinking and reading, and learning how to recognize and utilize specific writing strategies and skills. Since much discussion will be carried on in class, impeccable attendance and assignment submission are imperative. The ACP student should be highly motivated to work independently and in small groups. Participation in all class discussions is essential and expected of all students. Students will write four micro-themes and three major papers over the course of the semester. Because of the unique content within this course, the English Department will not allow any withdrawals from this class (including academic level changes) after Labor Day of each year. Please be aware that IU policy with regard to submission of assignments and assignment requirements supersedes those of Cathedral High School for this course.
*Course Fee* – determined by Indiana University.
ACP English, L202 (Dual Credit) (Honors)
C122XS 1 Semester 1 Credit
Prerequisite:
Successful completion (C- or higher) of ACP English W131.
Course Description:
Literary Interpretation is a one-semester Indiana University course designed to help students learn how to read, think, and write critically and cogently about literature. Students will study four genres—poetry, short story, the novel, and drama—to understand how the various elements of a work of imaginative literature cohere to impart meaning. A large portion of the course will focus on how to write about literature; students will learn how to translate close reading skills into strong critical essays, writing three major papers, as well as short assignments (micro-themes). The class will be discussion-based, and vigorous and insightful explorations of the poetry and fiction studied are expected, as well as impeccable attendance and assignment submission. The ACP student should be highly motivated to work independently and in small groups. Participation in all class discussions is essential and expected of all students. Please be aware that IU policy with regard to submission of assignments and assignment requirements supersedes those of Cathedral High School for this course.
*Course Fee* – determined by Indiana University.
Journalism I: Intro to Journalism and Digital Media (College Prep)
C139CF/C139CS 1 semester 1 credit
Prerequisite:
None.
Course Description:
Students will learn interviewing, journalistic writing, journalistic law and ethics, and multimedia production for completing a variety of journalistic assignments, including news stories, feature stories, personality profiles. Students will learn how to apply Associated Press style rules to their writing and will submit their work to the Megaphone newspaper and Cathedral yearbook. Students who are interested in learning real-life journalism skills, improving their writing skills, learning videography and photography skills, and working on the student newspaper or yearbook should consider this course.
Broadcasting (Academic) (Honors)
C835AF/C835AS 1 Semester 1 Credit
C835XF/C835XS
Academic (first two semesters in class); Honors (third semester and beyond in class). This course may be repeated for up to 8 credits.
Prerequisite:
Journalism 1: Intro to Journalism.
Course Description:
Students enrolled in Broadcasting will discover a world of emerging technologies, as well as time-tested storytelling and scriptwriting assignments. Emphasis is placed on career opportunities, production, programming, promotion, sales, performance, and equipment operation. Instructional strategies include a hands-on school-based enterprise, public service, school initiatives, community activities, and much more. Students will create a video portfolio containing projects produced throughout the year for potential college and employment opportunities.
Composition (Academic)
C131AF/C131AS 1 Semester 1 Credit
Prerequisite:
Open to juniors and seniors in College Prep or Academic level English.
*Students enrolled in the Language Support Program will take two semesters of Fundamentals of Writing in place of Composition (Academic).
Course Description:
This course focuses on correct grammatical usage, punctuation, and sentence structure by implementing them in the writing process. Students are assigned narrative, expository, descriptive, and persuasive compositions. Emphasis is placed on composing, editing, and revision. Journaling is incorporated as a writing strategy. As preparation for the college application process, one of the college advisors will talk to the class, disseminate information, and answer questions. Students will research three possible college choices and create a PowerPoint presentation on them. They will then choose one of the three colleges, do more in-depth research, and write an expository essay. Additionally, students will create a resume and write a college essay. These documents are then given to the college advisors to keep on file.
Speech (Academic)
C141AF/C141AS 1 Semester 1 Credit
Prerequisite:
Open to sophomores and juniors in College Prep or Academic English. Students may substitute ACP Public Speaking (taken senior year) or Intro to Acting to satisfy the Speech requirement.
Course Description:
Students learn how to effectively use oral communication in all areas of public speaking. Students learn the fundamentals and techniques of organizing, researching and presenting material for individual speeches.
ACP Public Speaking (Dual Credit) (Honors)
C166XF/C166XS 1 Semester 1 Credit
Prerequisite:
Open to seniors in any level of English. Also open to juniors who have earned a B or better in sophomore English and have completed one semester of Speech.
Course Description:
This course from Indiana University prepares students in the liberal arts to communicate effectively with public audiences. Emphasizes oral communication as practiced in public contexts: how to advance reasoned claims in public; how to adapt public oral presentations to particular audiences; how to listen to, interpret, and evaluate public discourse; and how to formulate a clear response. Credit is given for only one of P155, CMCL-C 121, or SPCH-S121. P155/S121 class size is capped at 24 students, regardless of how many are taking the course for college credit.
*Course Fee* – determined by Indiana University.
Debate (Honors)
C142XF/C142XS 1 Semester 1 Credit
Prerequisite:
This course is open to juniors in AP English Language and Composition. Also open to seniors in any level of English who have completed one semester of Speech, have received an English teacher recommendation, and have approval of the Debate teacher.
Course Description:
This course is designed for students who want to learn the technique of competitive debating. Concentration will be on development of the skills of researching, speaking, listening, reasoning, and organizing. Students learn the art of facilitation and will devise and perform both policy and value debates over the course of the semester, writing outlines and constructives before each, as well as self-evaluations after. Students will participate in three to four debates over the course of the semester culminating in a final debate which will serve as their exam.
Creative Writing (Academic)
C117AF/C117AS 1 Semester 1 Credit
Prerequisite:
Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. This course does not take the place of composition.
Course Description:
This course is for self-motivated students who have the desire to practice and perfect their art of writing. Students learn the writing process and develop and nurture their creativity in a variety of forms such as writing children’s literature, plays, short stories, and poetry. Additionally, the course provides opportunity to develop editing and workshop skills.
Journalism II: Newspaper (Academic) (Honors)
C134AF/C134AS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
C134XF/C134XS
Prerequisite:
Completion of Journalism 1: Intro to Journalism is required.
Academic (first year in class); Honors (second and/or third year on staff). This course may be repeated for up to 6 credits.
Course Description:
Students will produce each issue of the Megaphone, the student newspaper. Students will write a variety of assignments, such as news, feature, sports, columns, and editorials. Students with an interest in photojournalism may enroll to shoot photos for the publication. Megaphone staff who serve as editors are expected to participate in after school work sessions one day every three or four weeks, based on publication deadlines. Note: This course fulfills the fine arts graduation requirement.
Journalism II: Yearbook (Academic) (Honors)
C136AF/C136AS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
C136XF/C136XS
Prerequisite:
Completion of Journalism 1: Intro to Journalism is required.
Academic (first year in class); Honors (second and/or third year on staff). This course may be repeated for up to 8 credits.
Course Description:
Students will write copy and captions, take photos, and design pages for the Cathedran, the school’s award-winning yearbook. Staff members should be disciplined, organized, and possess the ability to multitask and to meet deadlines. With some required after-school work time, students have the ability to complete work on a web-based service. Students interested in honing their writing, photography, design, and editing skills should consider joining to help record the history of Cathedral. Note: This course fulfills the fine arts graduation requirement.
Film Studies (Academic)
C158AF/C158AS 1 Semester 1 Credit
Prerequisite:
Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
Course Description:
In this class, students will study and analyze film as an artistic medium within its various genres, conventions, and techniques. Students will apply the skills of analysis and interpretation to a variety of film genres and styles, considering how film acts simultaneously as entertainment, narrative form, artistic expression, and cultural artifact. Students will participate in film viewing, keep viewing logs, complete in-class and creative projects, read and annotate excerpts from Gianetti’s Understanding Movies, and write three analytical response papers.
AP Seminar (Advanced Placement) (Honors)
C162XF/C162XS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Open to juniors in Honors English.
Course Description:
AP Seminar is a foundational, year-long course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies and foundational literary texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts and personal accounts; and experiencing artistic work and performances. Students synthesize information from multiple sources and develop their own perspectives in research-based essays and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Students will develop skills needed to analyze and evaluate information and to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments. This elective course is not a traditional English class and does not meet the Cathedral English requirement. It is a required course for the AP Capstone diploma program. Beginning with the class of 2027, students who are enrolled in AP Seminar their Junior year and complete both semesters meet the Cathedral requirement for Honors Debate.
*Course Fee*
AP Research (Advanced Placement) (Honors)
C163XF/C163XS 2 Semesters 2 Credits
Prerequisite:
Open to seniors who have completed AP Seminar.
Course Description:
AP Research allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem or issue of individual interest. Students design, plan and conduct a year-long, ethical research-based investigation to address a research question. Students understand research methodology, document their processes and curate artifacts for their portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000 to 5,000 words accompanied by a performance or exhibition of the final product and a presentation with an oral defense. This elective course is not a traditional English class and does not meet the Cathedral English requirement. It is a required course for the AP Capstone diploma program.
*Course Fee*