This course continues the development of comprehension and analysis of informational and fictional texts with an ongoing emphasis on reading strategies.Analyzing and practicing the form and structure of various genres of writing enhances students’ communication skills. Students study a variety of media to understand informational and persuasive techniques, explicit and implied messages, and how visual and auditory cues affect messages. Grammar, usage, and mechanics skills are deepened. Students continue to widen their vocabulary and apply acquisition strategies

Students are introduced to public speaking as an important component of their academic, work, and social lives. They study public speaking occasions and develop skills as fair and critical listeners, or consumers, of spoken information and persuasion. Students study types of speeches (informative, persuasive, dramatic, and special occasion), read and listen to models of speeches, and prepare and present their own speeches to diverse audiences.