This course is designed for general and college-preparatory students. This course emphasizes paragraph and essay development combined with a study of literature and nonfiction with a focus on critical reading skills. Short story and poetry elements will be taught along with analysis of novels and drama. A variety of writing modes will be covered, such as analytical, reflective, expository, and compare/contrast. Writing conventions such as usage, grammar, mechanics, spelling and vocabulary development will be addressed in context with the writing process and the study of reading selections. Students can expect a variety of oral and listening activities along with oral presentations.