English

The English Department of South Hadley High School recognizes the importance of success in the English Language Arts in becoming an informed and productive member of society. In alignment with the Massachusetts Language Arts Curriculum Frameworks, the English courses are designed to produce effective speakers, discerning listeners, perceptive readers, and clear, persuasive writers. By the successful completion of senior year, students will have read a number of American and world authors, discussed and debated many ethical and social issues, and expressed views in varied oral and written forms. 

REQUIREMENTS
Each student must earn a total of 24 credits in English in order to graduate: six credits in freshman English, six in sophomore English, six in junior English, and six in senior English. Every student must successfully complete the prior year program before being allowed to advance to the next level. While students are encouraged to select additional English electives in their junior and senior years, only six English credits per year can be applied to satisfying the department requirement. However, additional English credits will be applied to the total number of credits needed to graduate.

SUMMER READING
All students in all grade levels will be given a summer reading list. Students will have to read a specific number of works in preparation for testing in September. Copies of the reading list may be obtained from any English instructor, the Main Office or our web site. Failure to do the reading may impact course selection and grade.

CRITICAL/RESEARCH PAPER
Students in all courses will be expected to complete a critical/research project acceptable to the instructor within the timeframe established by the teacher. Failure to do so by the timeframe specified will result in an INCOMPLETE for the semester/year and may lead to an “F” course grade.

 FINAL EXAMS
All students will take final exams or complete final projects.