Language Arts 9 Honors

Overview
Outline

Overview

Course Description

Semester A

Language Arts 9 Honors is an integrated curriculum. Each module contains thematically related lessons in two or more of five domains: reading and the study of literature, reading informational text, writing, speaking and listening, and language study, including word knowledge and grammar skills. Topics are presented in ways that help students connect literacy skills to real-world experiences and other aspects of their lives. Writing assignments include narrative, expository, and persuasive/argumentative modes and emphasize the use of relevant details, evidence, and reasoning to support ideas. Speaking and listening lessons in Semester A emphasize collaborative discussion skills and peer review. Vocabulary development is integrated throughout literature and informational text lessons.

This honors course follows the same core curriculum as Language Arts 9 but includes increased rigor, deeper analysis, and higher expectations for independent thinking and performance. Honors students are expected to demonstrate initiative, engage in deeper analysis, and produce work that reflects advanced critical thinking, independence, and attention to detail in preparation for future advanced coursework.

Semester B

Like Semester A, Semester B consists of integrated modules centered on a theme or mode of study. The literature study in Semester B focuses on analyzing different forms of literature and includes comparative studies of texts delivered across different media. Students engage in deeper literary analysis, examining the author’s craft, themes, and the impact of different formats on meaning. Writing and informational text lessons guide students through the stages of the research process and emphasize how to evaluate sources, integrate information effectively, and present research findings clearly and thoughtfully. Students are expected to demonstrate independence and use credible evidence to support their ideas.

Students share their ideas and analysis using a variety of formats, including oral and multimedia presentations, with an emphasis on clear communication and critical thinking. This honors course follows the same core curriculum as Language Arts 9 but includes increased rigor, deeper analysis, and higher expectations for independent thinking and performance. Honors students are expected to produce work that reflects advanced reasoning, strong evidence, and attention to detail in preparation for future advanced coursework.

Course Requirements

Grade Level

9th Grade

Materials

None

Duration

2 Semesters

Credit Value

1.0

Prerequisites

Language Arts 8

Outline

Semester A

Major Concepts

Literary Analysis and Theme Development
Narrative Techniques and Author’s Craft
Informational Text Structures and Features
Academic Vocabulary and Word Analysis
Explanatory Writing and Research Skills Argument
Development and Persuasive Techniques

Semester A Syllabus

Semester B