English 4 AP

Pace of Class

• College sophomore levels or advanced standing freshman level
• Students work independently and discuss materials after completing the reading
• Two novels for summer reading

Outside Work

• The Oresteia
• Hamlet
• Aeneid
• The Inferno
• Frankenstein
• Rosencrantz and Guildensdtern
• Heart of Darkness
• Oedipus Re
• Metaphysical poetry
• Modern poems and short stories
• Independent literary research

Most are read outside of class.

Writing Skills

• One research paper
• Frequent timed writings analyzing poetry & prose
• Short writings out of class
• Polished writings

Recommended Background

• English 3 AP with a minimum grade of 85 - Honors English 3 does NOT prepare students for AP English 4
• Competent writer, comfortable with timed writings
• Independent reader who can find meanings without teacher assistance

Differences in Weighting of Grades

• Group projects with creative components
• Tests, writings, and polished writings given major weight
• Fewer grades, graded discussions
• Expect 10-12 hours of homework per week

Overall Expectations

• Independent reader of demanding work
• Highly competent writer
• Preparation for AP Literature/Composition Exam