Welcome to English 11, American Literature.

Course Overview

What does it mean to be an American? This year, we will focus on this question of national identity, as well as the historical and often philosophical arguments which are inseparable from this question of identity. Building on the thematic studies in English 9 and English 10, this course engages students to consider some of the essential arguments which have shaped and continue to shape our understanding of our country and our role as citizens. Some additional questions of inquiry may include:

• What is the American Dream?
• How do we define individual identity?
• What is the relationship between the individual and the broader community?
• What is the role of belief/faith?
• What can we “know?” What can we say?
• What is “worth” fighting for? (diplomacy, war, the environment, etc.)
• What is responsible for the maintenance of our American community?

Course Objectives

• To develop active reading and critical thinking skills
• To improve writing skills through practicing the writing process
• To write essays based on original insights and interpretations with strong arguments grounded in textual evidence
• To develop an understanding of and cultivate an appreciation for the historical context and significance of American Literature

• Teacher: Amy Corso