English 3 American Literature
Exploring American Voices Through Literary Analysis
Grade 11 · 1.0 Credit · College Readiness Pathway
The English 3 American Literature course guides students through a chronological and thematic exploration of U.S. literature, spanning colonial narratives to 21st-century voices. This course emphasizes foundational themes such as identity, justice, and the evolving American dream. Moreover, it helps students reflect on cultural shifts through the lens of literature.
Students analyze fiction, nonfiction, drama, and poetry using close reading strategies, historical context, and authorial intent. As they read, they develop academic writing through structured essays and documented argumentation. In addition, students gain exposure to diverse viewpoints and styles.
Furthermore, learners strengthen grammar, rhetorical skills, and voice clarity through intensive writing. Peer review and guided feedback cycles reinforce these elements. Alongside formal instruction, students engage in ongoing self-assessment.
Ultimately, English 3 equips students for advanced study in English Language and Literature, promoting fluency in text-based argument and literary critique. It serves as both a bridge and a foundation for success in higher education and beyond.
Grade Level: 11
Credits: 1
Delivery Format: Live Online (1:1 or Small Group)
Duration: Full Academic Year (194 instructional days)
Instructional Language: English
English III expands student capacity for literary interpretation, textual argumentation, and academic voice development. Using primary texts, students explore political, cultural, and social frameworks embedded in literature. As a result, they develop analytical essays and source-based papers aligned with college-preparatory benchmarks.
Core Academic Content
Chronological study of American literary movements
Historical and rhetorical context in nonfiction and legal texts
Document-based argument, interpretation, and analysis
Essay construction with formal tone and citation
Advanced language structures and stylistic clarity
Instructional Framework
Teacher-led sessions emphasizing literary dialogue and revision
Week-by-week pacing model with scaffolded skill development
Strategies for multilingual, gifted, and accelerated learners
Ultimately, learners leave prepared for advanced English and interdisciplinary courses, including our four-year English Language Arts program.
Key Academic Competencies
Close reading and historical interpretation of source texts
Documented research and written argument structure
Collaborative discussion and speech protocol
Analysis of values and ethical perspectives in literature
Multimodal project and argument presentations
Reading & Resource List
The Scarlet Letter – Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Great Gatsby – F. Scott Fitzgerald
Letter from Birmingham Jail – Martin Luther King Jr.
U.S. legal documents, speeches, and founding texts
Nonfiction and poetry by historically underrepresented authors
Assessment Structure
Extended essays and structured literary evaluations
Source-based writing with MLA or APA documentation
Spoken argument and discussion assessments
Quarterly performance portfolios with annotation
Final paper or media-supported thesis presentation