The English program is a cornerstone of the intellectual, social, and personal growth of AIS-R students.  English courses not only provide a comprehensive range of the historical, cultural and aesthetic scope of literature from around the world, they enable students to develop their skills of communication in the English language vis-a-vis, reading, writing, speaking, listening and researching.  Through the reading and study of literature, media, non-fiction and other forms of the written and spoken word, students are challenged to think critically, develop intellectual independence, and effectively convey their ideas to others.  Instruction in grammar and vocabulary provides essential knowledge and requires the development of sound study habits in our students.

We believe the insights and experiences gained in the English Department will enable our students to become responsible global citizens.  We foster this by encouraging our students to "read the world" because exploring the human experience allows students to deepen their self-understanding, and by taking different perspectives they create opportunities to better understand the human condition, develop tolerance, learn social justice, and formulate new ways to think about their lives.  We further believe the materials chosen within both our American-based and International Baccalaureate curricula will challenge students to question, reflect upon their won ideas, and then to reconfirm, strengthen and broaden or revise their views as citizens of a multicultural community in which all people with their differences can also be right.

As a school committed to excellence, the high school has developed its writing program to be consistent with the Six Plus One Traits of writing criteria assessment.  In addition, the English Department goal is that formative and summative assessments align with the practices of IB's external assessments and evaluate students using IB criteria throughout the high school English program.  Through a consistent and coherent approach to assessment throughout the English program, students will be challenged to meet high measurable standards which are clearly defined and implemented.  This integrated approach will help prepare our students to be responsible, productive and ethical world citizens with the skills and passion to think creatively, reason critically, and communicate effectively.

English Courses

English 9
English 10
IB English SL
IB English HL
Journalism/High School Newspaper