English 8

Students in English 8 will read a variety of literary genres and study the basic elements of setting, imagery, theme, symbol, and character development. While studying a selection of contemporary and classic texts from around the world, they will also read Shakespeare, focusing on either one of his plays or a selection of his sonnets.Literature and principles from First Nations will be interwoven with current units and included in the summer reading lists. Students will write in many forms using the writing process but teachers will particularly emphasize writing unified and coherent expository paragraphs using the Jane Schaffer formula. Students will learn to revise and edit their work, focusing on content and elements of style, independently and in collaboration with others. Additionally, they will be expected to proof-read and correct their final drafts, paying specific attention to grammar, vocabulary, punctuation, spelling, and conventions of style, as well as drawing on the best of such online resources. This course leads to English 9.