English IV

In English IV, students explore British and world literature from of a variety of genres and historical contexts. Beginning with The Odyssey and Beowulf, students grapple with the question of how cultures define monstrosity and heroism—a theme that recurs throughout the course. That theme continues into an analysis of The Tempest, along with considerations of how language can be used to empower or subjugate. As students delve into literature of the 18th century, they respond to the satire of Jonathan Swift and arguably the first realistic fictional novel, Robinson Crusoe. As the question of how cultures and individuals define monstrosity and heroism deepen, students examine how humans define and interact with what is perceived as "other." In analyzing Frankenstein, students are able to witness the struggle between monstrosity and heroism in both external and internal conflicts, through the lens of a writer of the Romantic era. Moving into the 20th century, students examine the rhetoric of wartime speeches by World War II’s most prominent leaders. They are also given the opportunity to reflect on and respond to the writings of colonists and those they colonized, and to consider how imperialistic attitudes might be reflected in contemporary scenarios. Finally, students enter the modern era, reading a one-act play, examining a technical document, and analyzing the effects media has on our perception of reality.

English IV supports all students in developing the depth of understanding and higher order skills required by the TEKS. Students break down increasingly complex readings with close reading tools, guided instruction, and robust scaffolding as they apply each of the lesson's concepts back to an anchor text. Students build their writing and speaking skills in journal responses, discussions, research, and written assignments and presentations, learning to incorporate language conventions to communicate clearly and credibly in literary, argumentative, and informational styles.

This course is built to fulfill the 2017 English Language Arts and Reading, English IV TEKS.