ENG4U: English (University Preparation)

PREREQUISITE:  English, Grade 11, University Preparation
GRADE: 12 (University)
AVAILABILITY: Spark Asher Academy Online
THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM: English


Course Overview
ENG4U online is meticulously designed to enhance the literacy, communication, and critical thinking skills vital for success in both academic and everyday contexts. This course offers a deep dive into diverse literary texts from various periods, cultures, and genres, encouraging students to critically analyze and engage with complex themes and narratives. Additionally, the course emphasizes the development of academic language skills, tailored reading strategies, and advanced writing techniques, preparing students for the rigors of university, college, or professional environments.

UNIT ONE: Finding Your Voice
Essential Question: How can mastering conventions enhance personal writing style?

  • Students will explore foundational concepts in writing and literary analysis, examining short stories and non-fiction through various media. The focus will be on developing a unique writing voice through the effective use of literary conventions.

UNIT TWO: Classic Fiction: The Great Gatsby
Essential Question: How does historical context influence thematic development in ‘The Great Gatsby’?

  • This unit delves into F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel as a lens to explore social commentary. Students will analyze narrative techniques and literary devices that reflect the cultural and social issues of the Jazz Age, enhancing their understanding of literature as a reflection of its time.

UNIT THREE: Elizabethan Drama: Hamlet
Essential Question: What literary strategies did Shakespeare use to develop Hamlet’s complex character?

  • Students will engage with Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet,’ applying analytical skills to explore character complexity, archetypes, imagery, and classical allusions. The study will include detailed examinations of literary devices and their contributions to the depth and meaning of the drama.

UNIT FOUR: Modern Fiction: A Thousand Splendid Suns
Essential Question: How do literary devices enhance the thematic depth of ‘A Thousand Splendid Suns’?

  • In this unit, students will read Khaled Hosseini’s ‘A Thousand Splendid Suns,’ focusing on contemporary issues and cultural diversity. The analysis will center on how Hosseini uses literary devices to discuss themes such as resilience, suffering, and the human spirit within the context of Afghan history.

Assessment

  • Coursework (70%): Ongoing evaluations including essays, projects, presentations, and participation in discussions will assess students’ understanding of literary concepts and their ability to apply these in varied contexts.
  • Final Evaluation (30%): The course concludes with a culminating project and a proctored final exam. The project (10%) allows students to synthesize their learning in a creative or analytical presentation, while the exam (20%) tests their comprehensive understanding of the course material.

ENG4U is designed not only to bolster students’ literacy and analytical skills but also to foster an appreciation for the power of literature as a mirror to society and a tool for personal expression. This course prepares students for the next steps in their educational journey, equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in a variety of future academic and career paths.

For more details on final exams and the exam fee, please consult to us directly via contact page. Additional information can be found in our download section in courses page.

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