At the middle school, our scholars meet daily with their English teachers. In those classes, students encounter challenging texts and work on building strong foundations as critical readers and academic writers. Scholars have opportunities to read, analyze, discuss, and respond to fiction, nonfiction, and poetry throughout the year. Two central focus areas for the English curriculum are developing independent reading skills and reading stamina through sustained attention to full-length texts (novels, memoirs, etc.) and broadening vocabulary via targeted and consistent instruction.
Students will utilize Atmosphere’s proprietary systems to learn effective approaches for tackling academic tasks ranging from notetaking to succeeding on multiple-choice tests to creating impactful short written responses and thoughtful academic argumentative essays. Students will develop their writing skills, particularly through a drafting process that includes revision, peer review, and robust teacher feedback.
The English program at Atmosphere aligns with New York State Next Generation Standards. It provides opportunities for students to read and write in many genres, encountering literature and essays that represent a wide variety of cultural perspectives. We encourage and empower our students to explore classic and modern literature and to develop their own voices as critics and creators.
English classes in the high school at Atmosphere are designed to foster a love of literature, develop capable academic writers, and hone college and career readiness skills such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
All high school students receive strong foundational instruction in literary analysis, argument writing, text response writing, and college-level vocabulary. In their English class, each student will be able to practice being a discussion leader, presenting to their peers, and responding to literature regarding content, style, and message. We are proud of the various cultural backgrounds and perspectives offered by the authors represented in our diverse anchor text list, and we seek to develop students’ independent reading interests and skills with a focus on full-length texts (novels, memoirs, etc.). In our English classroom, students encounter a broader world and are invited to explore, evaluate, and discuss what they find there.
In addition to foundational skill development and literary appreciation, high-achieving Atmosphere scholars have opportunities to challenge themselves by enrolling in Advanced Placement courses such as AP English Language and AP English Literature and by registering for college credit programming via a partnership with St. John’s University. Instruction in these demanding courses raises the bar on rigor, helping our students to extend their independent study skills, develop and express complex ideas, and prepare for demanding high-stakes exams.
