ENGLISH II
Links and Resources
Check out daily lesson plans and links to class materials!
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*Lesson plans are updated daily and subject to change.
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Unit 1: Patriotism and Rhetoric
In this brief introductory unit, we will be analyzing Shakespeare's Julius Caesar (a tragedy that we will be returning to to study later on). We will begin the year by reviewing elements of rhetoric (persuasive writing) and work together to define patriotism and understand how it was used in Julius Caesar to manipulate the masses. In this 3-week unit, students will be familiarized with the practices and procedures of this English class as well as refresh their analytical skills.
Unit 2: Julius Caesar
Our first-quarter curriculum centers around Shakespeare's shortest tragedy. As we read, we will discuss themes such as the value of virtue and honor, the inner versus the outer self, and the power of one's will. We will analyze powerful speeches (hunting for ethos, logos, and pathos!) and may come across some familiar phrases along the way.
In this unit we will sharpen our argumentation skills, expand our vocabulary, and consider the relevance of Brutus and Cassius' aims to restore a government by the people and for the people to the goals of our government today.
Unit 3: To Kill a Mockingbird
In our semester-long study of Harper Lee's greatest work we will analyze and discuss various aspects of the novel, paying particular attention to the various characters who make Maycomb what it is (the good, the bad, and the ugly!).
This unit is designed to increase reading comprehension, to deepen the students’ understanding of literary devices, and to improve students' argumentative writing skills. We will conclude with an argumentative essay exploring Maycomb's society and its effect on the characters it has shaped and raised.
Unit 4: Literature Circles!
Unit 4 brings a new component of the English II reading program called literature circles, a process that allows students to select their own books and discuss them with other students.
We are offering ten different books from which your student may choose. The books are drawn from multiple time periods and cultures. This unit is designed to increase reading comprehension, to deepen the students’ understanding of literary terms, and to develop speaking and listening skills.
Unit 5: The Things They Carried
