–      Albert Einstein

Senior IB English is a college-level literature course with an intense focus on the close reading and analysis of literature. But the Einstein quote captures a larger theme in the class: The power of imagination, art and aesthetic experience to sustain, entertain and transform. Einstein was, as you know, a pretty smart guy, and his wisdom extended far beyond physics and mathematics into the realms of the humanities, philosophy and spirituality. He also said, “The ideals which have lighted my way and time after time given me the energy to face life have been kindness, beauty, and truth.” Let those be our guiding lights as well as we explore literature and life together: imagination, empathy, beauty and truth.

You will learn to grapple with rich, complex texts, carefully examining them for their content and craft, as well as for their relevance to our lives and world. While I will provide lots of instruction and support, the ultimate goal is to develop your ability to respond to and interpret literature independently and in your own voice, and to structure and express ideas and arguments in sustained, coherent and persuasive ways. If formal literary analysis doesn’t sound like your particular cup of tea, take heart; the IB aims and objectives for the course make clear that the skills involved will serve you well in any field you choose to pursue.

Click on the correct unit in the menu at left to find digital copies of support materials I use in class.