In Grade 9, instructional time should focus on four critical areas: (1) Oral Expression and Listening which requires effective preparation strategies and listening critically to comprehend a speaker's message; (2) Reading for All Purposes which requires analyzing and comparing increasingly complex literary elements in traditional and contemporary works of literature and informational texts; (3) Writing and Composition of diverse texts using proper grammar, usage, and mechanics; (4) Research and Reasoning which requires collecting, evaluating, and analyzing a variety of informational materials for accuracy, relevance, and effectiveness. Students will also use effective problem-solving strategies that require high-quality reasoning. These concepts and associated skills are aligned with the Colorado Academic Standards for Language Arts, incorporating 21st century skills and postsecondary and workforce readiness competencies.

The first course in the NPIB/Honors English curriculum, NPIB/Honors English 9 uses an international approach to the study of literature. Its intent is to prepare students for the IB Diploma and/or AP and IB Courses in 11th and 12th grades. To meet these rigorous standards of these courses, students will practice oral communication skills in this discussion-based class., They will improve writing skills , identify thematic connections among various literary genres, and interpret and analyze literature using literary concepts.

English 10 will continue to focus on analytical reading skills in literature. Writing will focus on sentence and paragraph structure, culminating in a research and analytical composition. This course will also provide oral communication fundamentals and public speaking opportunities. Students will read independently and will demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of these texts.

NPIB/Honors English 10 is a discussion-based course that focuses on literary genres and analysis. Its intent is to continue preparation for the IB and AP courses in grades 11 and 12. To meet the rigorous standards of these courses, students will continue to develop their literary analysis skills, write and perform argumentative speeches, extend their understanding of writing formats and use of textual evidence, and identify thematic connections among various literary genres. Summer homework is required.

This class provides a text-based exploration of language and communication. Students will read and analyze multi-genre texts. Emphasis is on rhetorical analysis and global issues as presented in nonfiction and fiction. Students will write narrative, persuasive and analytical compositions.

The AP English Language and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level rhetoric and writing curriculum, which requires students to develop evidence-based analytical and argumentative essays that proceed through several stages or drafts. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Throughout the course, students develop a personal style by making appropriate grammatical choices. Additionally, students read and analyze the rhetorical elements and their effects in non-fiction texts, including graphic images as forms of text, from many disciplines and historical periods. Students enrolled in an AP class are also required to join and participate in the accompanying AP Classroom course. Specific join codes and information on how to sign up for AP Classroom will be given the first week of class.

This course aims to develop skills of textual analysis and the understanding that texts, both literary and non-literary, can relate to culturally determined reading practices. The course also encourages students to question the meaning generated by language and texts. An understanding of the ways in which formal elements are used to create meaning in a text is combined with an exploration of how that meaning is affected by reading practices that are culturally defined and by the circumstances of production and reception. This course will prepare students for the Individual Oral Exam, Paper 1 and Paper 2 exams.

IB English HL 11 covers two of the required IB literature units in 11th grade: first semester–literature in translation, first semester–school's choice of literature. Summer homework may be required. Objectives: Investigate the cultural and contextual underpinnings of the texts; Analyze and comment independently on literary texts; Apply knowledge and understanding of literary forms to texts; Demonstrate knowledge and understanding in oral and written presentations. This course will prepare students for the HL Essay, Individual Oral Exam, Paper 1 and Paper 2 exams.

This course is designed for college-bound and/or career ready seniors who will develop skills in literature, writing, and professionalism in preparation for their future. Its intent is to provide students with the tools necessary to be successful post-graduation. The course includes fictional and nonfictional texts.Writing assignments are based on essays, short stories, poetry, and plays. Students will be expected to explore their role in and how they will contribute to society. Critical thinking, research, and reasoning skills will be emphasized throughout the course.

The AP English Literature and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level literary analysis course. The course engages students in the close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work's structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Summer homework may be required. Students enrolled in an AP class are also required to join and participate in the accompanying AP Classroom course. Specific join codes and information on how to sign up for AP Classroom will be given the first week of class.

Whether you're diving into creative writing for the first time or looking to deepen your skills, this course will guide you in crafting stories, poetry, and prose that are uniquely yours. Join us to build confidence in your voice and connect with a community of fellow writers. Through hands-on exercises in character, plot, dialogue, imagery and more, you'll explore new techniques and sharpen your process. We'll draw inspiration from books, movies, music, and TV, mixing creative freedom with practical techniques as you discover what makes your writing yours. By the end, you'll have a strong foundation and a sense of your own style as a writer.

This honors-level course provides a base of knowledge about the geography and history of the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The emphasis on human geography and history will address issues of economic, political, and social relevance, with an emphasis on connection to current global issues. Students will develop critical thinking and organizational skills, through research, writing, and argumentation.