Freshman Literature and Composition focuses on the concepts of inquiry and expression, illustrating how authors write creatively and in depth about their own lives. The texts cover experiences relevant to our world and students’ personal lives, balancing contemporary offerings with canonical texts to assure a comprehensive reading experience. Students will read texts as a class, in small groups, and independently analyze fiction, drama, poetry and nonfiction throughout the year. They will have the opportunity in a reading/writing workshop to analyze and discuss the author's craft, closely read and annotate excerpted passages and/or companion texts, apply reading skills and strategies, and engage in thematic discussions on essential questions. Students will compose and revise both analytical and creative pieces of writing. Analytical essays provide students with an opportunity to examine both literary and visual texts and construct arguments. Students will also craft pieces of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry working with models read in class. Throughout the year, teachers encourage students to use inquiry as a tool to express their unique identity and ideas. Honors Freshman Literature and Composition will use the same curricular structure and assessments as Freshman Literature and Composition; however, the mastery of skills, the quality of final drafts, and the quantity of work within the units will be faster paced and more in depth.