English 11A & 11B – Course Overview
English 11A and English 11B provide students with a historical survey of literature that has influenced United Statesian literature, tracing the evolution of ideas, themes, and voices from pre-colonial oral traditions to contemporary works of the 21st century. Using the StudySync curriculum, students will explore how literature reflects and shapes the social, political, and cultural landscapes of its time. Through critical reading, discussion, and a variety of writing experiences, students will analyze the power of language in shaping national identity, challenging perspectives, and inspiring change.
English 11A – First Quarter
The first half of the semester examines the foundations of American literary traditions, beginning with oral storytelling and early written works through the literature of revolution and reform:
- Pre-Colonial and Early Colonial Writings – Students will explore indigenous oral traditions, early colonial narratives, and religious texts that shaped early cultural perspectives.
- The Literature of Revolution and Democracy – Examining speeches, essays, and literature from the Revolutionary era, students will analyze how writers used language to define national identity and advocate for independence.
- Expanding Voices in a New Nation – This unit explores literature from the 19th century, focusing on how writers responded to the growing complexities of American society, including industrialization, westward expansion, and early calls for social reform.
English 11B – Second Quarter
The second half of the semester explores the ways in which literature reflects the changing American experience from the Civil War era through the 21st century:
- Literature of Conflict and Change – This unit focuses on literature emerging from the Civil War and Reconstruction, addressing themes of identity, division, and resilience.
- Modernism, Migration, and Cultural Shifts – Exploring the literary movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, students will analyze how industrialization, urbanization, and global conflicts shaped artistic and literary expression.
- Contemporary Voices and Perspectives – The final unit highlights the diverse voices that define 21st-century literature, reflecting on how contemporary writers address issues of identity, justice, and the evolving nature of storytelling.
Throughout English 11A and 11B, students will engage in analytical and creative writing, research projects, and discussions that challenge them to consider how literature both reflects and influences society. These courses provide students with a deeper understanding of the literary traditions that have shaped and continue to shape the cultural and intellectual landscape of the United States.