Course Name: American Literature
Credits: 5
Grade 11
Course Description
Students will read a variety of mentor texts and supplemental works (novels, plays, poems,
short stories, and seminal U.S. documents) that reflect the diverse voices of American culture
to understand the following: what it means to be American, how the specific time period in
American history affects the content and form of literature, and how the universal theme of
individual versus society is reflected in American literature. Students engage in research to
further inform their understanding of these themes and incorporate this information as they
write for a variety of purpose and audiences (to explain, to convey experiences, and to
present an argument). Students will further develop vocabulary knowledge through the use of
context clues, word parts, and reference materials, and they will use accurately academic
and content-specific vocabulary in their writing and in discussions and presentations.
Essential Questions
What are some major themes in American literature?
How do texts both reflect and contribute to the cultural and societal values of the time in
which they are written/created?
How do writers use rhetorical techniques to convey ideas and information?
Instructional Objectives
Students will…
• Utilize the stages of the writing process (pre-writing, outlining, drafting,
editing/revising, publishing, reflection)
• Write for various purposes and audiences
• Write in multiple formats, including creative, persuasive, personal
narrative/memoir, poetry, and reading reflections
• Utilize the steps of the research process to produce multiple short and extended
research-based papers and presentations
• Demonstrate knowledge of correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• Utilize various forms of technology for research, writing, editing, and publishing
• Utilize proper MLA format when appropriate
• Connect themes in a range of texts across genres
• Provide critical analysis, both written and oral
• Analyze how writers use rhetorical techniques to convey ideas and information
• Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown words and phrases based on
Grade 11 reading, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies
• Develop speaking and listening skills through Socratic seminars and oral
presentations
The American Literature course is based on the MA Curriculum Framework Standards,
including the Common Core State Standards (CCSS).
Thematic Concepts
American Identity
American Dream
Individual Versus Society
Coming of Age
The Quest
Required Anchor Texts and Instructional Materials
• The Great Gatsby
• The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
• The Things They Carried
• PPS High School Writing Guide
• SAT Practice Materials
Supplemental/Choice Texts
• The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail
• Red Badge of Courage
• Their Eyes Were Watching God
• Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglas
• Scarlet Letter
• Catcher in Rye
• Into the Wild
• Lincoln’s Greatest Speech
• Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl
• The Jungle
• The Awakening
• Walden
• The Crucible
• Death of a Salesman
• House on Mango Street
• Fences
• Black Boy
Plagiarism Policy (excerpts taken from Plymouth Public Schools Student Handbook)
9.0 Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement
Existing copyright law will govern the use of material accessed through network. The
user will not plagiarize works found on the Internet. Plagiarism is taking the ideas or
writings of others and presenting them as if they were yours. All copyrighted material
used must have the express written permission of the person or organization that
owns the copyright.
Cheating/Plagiarism
Any student who has cheated on any academic exercise will receive no credit for that
exercise. Plagiarism is a form of cheating. A parent/guardian will be notified by the
involved teacher in all instances of cheating. The investigation of the claim of cheating
and plagiarism will involve the student, teacher, and administration.
Grading Policy and Assessment
Grades will be based on the following components:
80%
• Formal Writing Pieces (as determined by Plymouth High School Writing Guidelines)
*Prewriting, outlines, drafts, and revision assignments fall under this category
• Tests and Quizzes
• Projects
• Formal Presentations
20%
• Class Work and Homework (reading responses, notes, language practice, etc.)
• Participation (Socratic Circles, Informal Presentations, Think, Pair, Share, etc.)
The final year average will be calculated as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
Term 1 Grade
Term 2 Grade
Term 3 Grade
Term 4 Grade
Final Exam
20%
20%
20%
20%
20%
Additional Information (to be teacher specific)
• Required Course Materials
• Student Expectations/Responsibilities
• Course Policies/Procedures
• Contact Information
Note: Each high school may choose to add their “School-wide Learning Expectations” as
appropriate.