Intended for high school juniors, this course utilizes various selections from American literature as the basis for studying and applying reading, writing, speaking, listening, research, and critical thinking skills. Writing instruction will continue, however, much of this will be during the editing process as students at this level are expected to be able to produce a well-written composition. Various types of essays and multiple in-class timed writings, as well as several creative pieces, are required. Application of literary elements will occur as students analyze literary selections in great depth. Vocabulary is taught in conjunction with the reading assignments and via various word lists appropriate for this grade.