English

English Department

The OLP English department incorporates classic literature from the western canon, while also striving to implement a diverse range of literary works. Students explore readings of various genres and cultures, while also learning, practicing, and refining extensive writing skills. Advanced courses motivate students to think critically, construct solid arguments, and see many sides of an issue—skills that prepare them for college and beyond. In the spirit of the CSJ charisms, the English Department empowers students to work towards excellence, tempered by “gentleness, peace, and joy.” Our mission is to encourage students to analyze and develop writing and reading skills to have a deeper, greater understanding of the human condition.

Through careful selection of texts, we ask students to read widely and deeply from many cultures and genres. Our focus on writing as a craft teaches students to write with precision while cultivating the power of their own unique voices. We have students write in many modes but always with attention to their audience and purpose. As a result, in every piece that they write, we encourage students to hone their voices through copious revision and sharing of their work. 

Honors distinction can be earned at the freshman and sophomore level, and we offer two AP classes to upper division students. AP Language and Composition focuses on analysis and argumentation, while AP Literature is grounded in literary analysis and an exploration of the human condition. Both of these classes provide a college-level English experience to prepare our students for the rigor of college coursework. Seniors have the option of choosing from our broad range of semester-long classes.

Course Offerings:

• English I 
• English I Honors
• World Literature
• World Literature Honors
• Speech and Debate
• Speech and Debate Honors II
• American Literature
• Dystopian Literature
• Examining the Holocaust Through Literature
• Writing in Literature
• Women’s Literature Seminar
• AP Language and Composition
• AP Literature and Composition
• AP Seminar