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English Language Arts

Why study the Language Arts?
 
At its core, Language Arts teaches how to communicate ideas clearly in both written and verbal forms.
But that explanation just scratches the surface of the discipline.  This is more than just writing, spelling, grammar, punctuation, speaking, improving reading comprehension and building vocabulary.  The curriculum also improves students' ability to absorb content, to understand different ideas and points of view, to develop empathy, to problem solve, and to improve the way students communicate.  It enables students to bring articulation and clarity to difficult-to-express thoughts.  Our readings will trigger the imagination.  Our discussion prompts will inspire original thought.  Our group activities will give students experience with collaboration.  And our instruction on essay development will provide opportunities to perfect intentionality in language use.
There is a reason why Language Arts is the only subject for which four years is required for high school graduation around the nation.  Skills refined and strengthened through Language Arts enable students to better access the content of all their academic subjects.  Such skills are at the foundation of every profession, and are lifelong.
 
Courses taught in recent years by the Language Arts department at Phoenix High School follow.  (Look to the drop-down menu to the left to see if they have any curriculum resources on the site for curious minds to access)    (** may earn credit from Southern Oregon University)   
All teachers may be reached by email at FIRSTNAME.LASTNAME@phoenix.k12.or.us
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Ms. Sarah Kremp               Science Fiction and Fantasy
Teaching since 1999            English 9
                                              English 11
 
Ms. Kelly Fogg-Johnson     AP Literature and Composition **
Teaching since 2004            Advanced English 10
                                              English 11
                                              Science Fiction and Fantasy
 
Ms. Anne Zaky                   Advanced English 9
Teaching since 2015           Young Adult Literature
                                             English 10
 
Ms. Koko D'Haem             AP Language and Composition **
Teaching since 2016           English 9
                                             English 10