This unique opportunity provides options for students to engage in a specific, focused project that will support their development of skills related to communication and literary skills. The class will be limited to 5 students who are interested in one of these specific, focused projects, and will be offered to Seniors first, and then on a first-come-first-served basis:

"Undertaking Literature," - A Study of the Work of Thomas Lynch, Poet, Essayist, and Undertaker, focused on creating a body of original writing that demonstrate the student's understanding of Lynch's work. The student, with support from the instructor, will identify Competencies they will practice and develop throughout the project.

"Making Sense," - A Study of Grammar, Sentence Structure, and Standard Written English, focused on creating a body of original writing, including analysis, that demonstrates the student's mastery of English grammar and sentence structure. The student, with support from the instructor, will identify Competencies they will practice and develop throughout the project.

"Music Her with Silver Sound", A Study of Romeo & Juliet through Music - focused on creating a playlist of 25 or more songs, one for each act in the play. The student, with support from the instructor, will identify Competencies they will practice and develop throughout the project.

"Zora and Spike," A study of the novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God," by Zora Neale Hurston and the film "She's Gotta Have It," by  Spike Lee, focused on creating a body of written work that compares and analyzes the novel and the movie. The student, with support from the instructor, will identify Competencies they will practice and develop throughout the project.

"Writers Write!" - A project for someone who wants to have dedicated time in their week to write, write, write (any genre or style) focused on publishing a short collection of original writing by the student. The student, with support from the instructor, will identify Competencies they will practice and develop throughout the project.

Competency Focus and Likely Attainments:

Advanced Communication:

• Identify bias, prejudice, and ulterior motives in literary and media sources
• Analyze complex arguments in literature, film, and nonfiction
• Construct logical, persuasive written arguments around literary themes or social issues
• Craft compelling original stories or essays for varied audiences and purposes
• Offer and apply meaningful peer and instructor feedback to improve work

Voice:

• Develop and refine a personal voice in writing.
• Make intentional stylistic choices in writing to reflect tone and perspective
• Communicate insights with individuality and purpose.

Effective Research:

• Conduct purposeful research to inform and deepen original work.
• Locate and evaluate sources that deepen understanding of a topic
• Incorporate information and evidence accurately and ethically.
• Synthesize source material with original thinking in a coherent structure.
• Integrate quotes, paraphrased material, and data effectively into writing.
• Cite sources correctly and analyze how they support an argument or interpretation

PLEASE NOTE: Students in this class will be expected to spend one class period a week, as well as time outside of class, focusing on their project. They will also be expected to attend and participate in a seminar discussion once a week, during which all cell phones will be turned off and put away.