Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition is designed to challenge the student’s ability to think critically, to analyze and evaluate literature, and to write analytical essays effectively. The course draws from a diverse selection of literature from various genres, eras, topics, themes, and authors from an array of backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultures. In addition, information concerning cultural, historical, philosophical, and psychological influences in literature is addressed. The genres include the epic, drama, novel, novella, short stories, and a major focus on poetry. Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition aims to refine and improve the student’s writing style, voice, grammar, mechanics, organization, and written expression. Students will analyze literature both independently and collaboratively with classmates using an array of synchronous and asynchronous technological resources. In addition, each student will prepare a research paper synthesizing and applying literary criticism using the current MLA standards and the use of electronic sources. Projects and other assignments incorporate multimedia to enhance the student’s modern literacy skills, including the multimodalities of textual, visual, auditory, verbal, kinetic, and participatory communication methods. The Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition course prepares students for the College Board Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition Exam. A great deal of student work will be required outside of class time.