English IV: British and World Literature

British and World Literature is a streamlined survey of British literature that illustrates the origins of English-language literature and reflects its reach beyond the British Isles. The course is standards-based. Each activity correlates to state standards in six core areas: reading, writing, language (appreciation and aesthetics), listening and speaking, viewing and representing (including media literacy), and research. The course gives students meaningful practice in fundamental literacy skills while introducing them to classics of British and world literature. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to think and respond independently, critically, and creatively to the subject matter, whether it's a work of literature, a piece of nonfiction writing, or a media work. The course emboldens students to approach these works — both on their own terms and within a larger context — while providing them with the tools and encouragement they need in order to do so.

Summaries and annotations support fluency and comprehension of all reading material. Robust scaffolding in the form of process guides and graphic organizers helps reluctant writers to internalize strategies and develop composition skills. Select activities target text-handling skills and promote improved performance on commonly assessed literary analysis and response standards. Study sheets support engagement with direct instruction and develop note-taking and study skills.

The content is based on the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards and is aligned to state standards.