AL: English I

AL: English 1


Course Number: 2000310
Course Title: AL: English 1
Course Section: Grades PreK to 12 Education Courses
Abbreviated Title: ALC - English 1
Number of Credits: One credit (1)
Course Length: Year (Y)
Course Level: 2
Course Status: Course Approved
General Notes:

Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) recommends that at the high school level, all students should be in the science lab or field, collecting data every week. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Special Notes:

Instructional Practices
Teaching from a range of complex text is optimized when teachers in all subject areas implement the following strategies on a routine basis:

  1. Ensuring wide reading from complex text that varies in length.
  2. Making close reading and rereading of texts central to lessons.
  3. Emphasizing text-specific complex questions, and cognitively complex tasks, reinforce focus on the text and cultivate independence.
  4. Emphasizing students supporting answers based upon evidence from the text.
  5. Providing extensive research and writing opportunities (claims and evidence).


Science and Engineering Practices
(NRC Framework for K-12 Science Education, 2010)

  • Asking questions (for science) and defining problems (for engineering).
  • Developing and using models.
  • Planning and carrying out investigations.
  • Analyzing and interpreting data.
  • Using mathematics, information and computer technology, and computational thinking.
  • Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering).
  • Engaging in argument from evidence.
  • Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information.

 

Lesson - Welcome to AL: English I Class

Welcome to AL: English I Class

Al: English 1 Class Banner
    

Overview of AL: English I

In AL: English I,  provide instruction in the Language Arts strands of the reading process, literary analysis, writing process, writing applications, communication, and information and media literacy. It offers instruction in reading and vocabulary strategies necessary for comprehension of printed materials; research; the writing of effective paragraphs and multipara graph papers, with emphasis upon all stages of the writing process in timed and untimed assessments (prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, publishing); speech instruction including formal and informal presentations; evaluation of mass media; the analysis of genres and the study of language in conjunction with writing, concentrating on conventions of grammar, usage, and mechanics. Technology is incorporated into all aspects of the course. To successfully pass and complete this course, learners must read, watch, and interact with all course materials and components.

 

How long will this take?

Ask your community coordinator for details on your approximate completion time.

Credit Value: 1.0

Course content must be fully graded to be considered complete.

Grading Scale

Grading Scale

Course Outline

The following will be covered in the Units of this Course: 

Unit 1

Unit 1: Using Technology—Navigating the Internet

Unit 2

Unit 2: Reading—Improving a Skill for Life

Unit 3

Unit 3: Writing—Making Words Speak

Unit 4

Unit 4: Writing—Using Strategies to Fine-Tune Writing

Unit 5

Unit 5: Listening, Viewing, Speaking , and Communicating Face to Face

Unit 6

Unit 6: Literature—Discovering the World, Discovering Ourselves

 

Lesson - Unit 1: Using Technology—Navigating the Internet

Unit 1: Using Technology—Navigating the Internet

Unit 1: Using Technology—Navigating the Internet Banner

Unit 1: Using Technology- Navigating the Internet

An Image showing Internt Technology

Unit 1: Using Technology—Navigating the Internet

Unit Focus

Reading

Writing

Organize information using appropriate systems.

Language

Vocabulary

Lesson Reading

Videos and Interactives (Click on Images to View Content)

Past And Present Technology Then And Now

Click Image to View Past And Present Technology Then And Now  Videos

Computer-Related Occupations

Click Image to Launch Computer-Related Occupations Game

 

 

Lesson - Unit 2: Reading—Improving a Skill for Life

Unit 2: Reading—Improving a Skill for Life

Unit 2: Reading—Improving a Skill for Life Banner

Unit 2: Reading - Improving a Skill for Life

Steps to Reading Proficiency DiagramUnit 2: Reading—Improving a Skill for Life

Improving your reading skills is indeed a skill for life, as it enhances your ability to learn, communicate effectively, and navigate the vast amount of information available in various formats. Here are some strategies to help you enhance your reading skills:

  1. Set Clear Goals: Define your reading goals and objectives. Whether it's reading for pleasure, learning new subjects, or improving specific skills, having clear goals will help you stay focused and motivated.

  2. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, reading improves with practice. Set aside dedicated time each day for reading, even if it's just a few minutes. Consistency is key to building and maintaining your reading skills.

  3. Expand Your Vocabulary: Increase your vocabulary by encountering new words regularly. Whenever you come across unfamiliar words while reading, take the time to look up their meanings and learn how to use them in context.

  4. Improve Reading Speed: Practice techniques such as skimming and scanning to improve your reading speed without sacrificing comprehension. Skimming involves quickly scanning a text to get an overview of its main ideas, while scanning involves searching for specific information.

  5. Enhance Comprehension: Improve your comprehension by actively engaging with the text. Ask questions, make predictions, and summarize key points as you read. Take notes, highlight important passages, and review them later to reinforce your understanding.

  6. Diversify Your Reading Material: Read a variety of genres, topics, and formats to broaden your knowledge and perspective. Explore fiction, non-fiction, articles, essays, academic papers, blogs, and other sources to expose yourself to different writing styles and ideas.

  7. Read Aloud: Reading aloud can help improve your fluency, pronunciation, and comprehension. It also allows you to hear the rhythm and cadence of the language, which can enhance your overall reading experience.

  8. Join a Book Club or Discussion Group: Participating in a book club or discussion group provides opportunities to engage with others, share insights, and gain new perspectives on the material you're reading. It also motivates you to read regularly and explore diverse literary works.

  9. Steps to Improving Your Reading SkillsUtilize Technology: Take advantage of technology tools and resources to support your reading practice. E-books, audio books, digital dictionaries, and reading apps can enhance accessibility, convenience, and engagement.

  10. Reflect and Evaluate: Periodically reflect on your reading habits, progress, and areas for improvement. Set new goals, experiment with different strategies, and adjust your approach based on feedback and experiences.

By incorporating these strategies into your reading routine and staying committed to continuous improvement, you'll not only enhance your reading skills but also unlock the countless benefits that reading offers for personal growth, lifelong learning, and intellectual enrichment.

Reading

Language

Vocabulary

Lesson Reading

Videos and Interactives (Click on Images to View Content)

Reading Comprehension Skills and Strategies

Click on Image to View Video on Reading Comprehension Skills and Strategies

Components of Language

Click Image to Launch Interactive Presentation on Components of Language

Read and Understand

Click Image to Launch Interactive Presentration on Read and Understand

 

Lesson - Unit 3: Writing—Making Words Speak

Unit 3: Writing—Making Words Speak

Unit 3: Writing—Making Words Speak Banner

Unit 3: Writing - Making Words Speak

Scrabble Tiles ImageUnit 3: Writing—Making Words Speak

"Making words speak" is a powerful concept in writing, as it encapsulates the ability to convey meaning, evoke emotions, and engage readers through effective language and expression. Here are some strategies to help you make your words speak:

  1. Choose Vivid Language: Select words and phrases that are descriptive, evocative, and rich in imagery. Use sensory details to paint vivid pictures in the reader's mind and create a sensory experience. Consider the sounds, sights, smells, tastes, and textures that can enhance your writing.

  2. Show, Don't Tell: Instead of simply stating facts or emotions, show them through concrete details, actions, and dialogue. Use descriptive language and specific examples to illustrate your points and evoke a deeper understanding and emotional response from the reader.

  3. Use Figurative Language: Incorporate literary devices such as similes, metaphors, personification, and symbolism to add depth and layers of meaning to your writing. Figurative language can create powerful associations, comparisons, and connections that resonate with readers on multiple levels.

  4. Craft Engaging Openings: Begin your writing with a compelling hook or introduction that grabs the reader's attention and draws them into your piece. Use vivid descriptions, provocative questions, anecdotes, or surprising facts to pique curiosity and encourage further reading.

  5. Create Rhythm and Flow: Pay attention to the rhythm, pacing, and flow of your writing. Vary sentence lengths and structures, use transitions effectively, and employ techniques such as parallelism and repetition to create a sense of rhythm and musicality that enhances readability and engagement.

  6. Develop Character Voice: When writing dialogue or narrative, develop distinct voices for your characters that reflect their personalities, backgrounds, and motivations. Use language, dialect, tone, and speech patterns to differentiate characters and bring them to life on the page.

  7. Evoke Emotions: Tap into the reader's emotions by writing with authenticity, empathy, and vulnerability. Share personal experiences, insights, and emotions that resonate with universal themes and human experiences. Use emotive language, storytelling techniques, and relatable anecdotes to evoke empathy, sympathy, laughter, or tears.

  8. Edit and Revise Carefully: Polish your writing through careful editing and revision. Refine your language, clarify your ideas, and tighten your prose to eliminate unnecessary words or ambiguity. Pay attention to word choice, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure to ensure clarity, coherence, and impact.

  9. Read Aloud and Seek Feedback: Read your writing aloud to yourself or others to assess its rhythm, tone, and effectiveness. Listen for awkward phrasing, clarity issues, or areas where the writing could be strengthened. Seek feedback from trusted readers, mentors, or writing groups to gain fresh perspectives and constructive criticism.

  10. Practice and Experiment: Continuously hone your craft by practicing writing regularly and experimenting with different styles, genres, and techniques. Embrace experimentation, take risks, and push yourself outside your comfort zone to discover new ways to make your words speak and resonate with readers.

By incorporating these strategies into your writing process and cultivating a deep appreciation for the power of language, you'll be able to make your words speak with clarity, creativity, and impact, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

Vocabulary

Lesson Reading

Videos and Interactives (Click on Images to View Content)

The Writing Process Pre-Writing

Click Image to View Video on The Writing Process Pre-Writing

Clustering or Webbing

Click Image to Launch Interactive Presentation on Clustering or Webbing Game

Rules and the Words

Click Image to Launch Interactive Presentation on Rules and the Words Game

 

Lesson - Unit 4: Writing—Using Strategies to Fine-Tune Writing

Unit 4: Writing—Using Strategies to Fine-Tune Writing

Unit 4: Writing—Using Strategies to Fine-Tune Writing banner

Unit 4: Writing—Using Strategies to Fine-Tune Writing

The Writing Process. Prewrite, Draft, Revise, FinishUnit 4: Writing—Using Strategies to Fine-Tune Writing

Unit Focus

Fine-tuning your writing involves refining and polishing your work to ensure clarity, coherence, and effectiveness. Here are some strategies to help you fine-tune your writing:

  1. Outline Your Ideas: Before you start writing, create an outline to organize your thoughts and structure your content. Outline the main points you want to cover and the order in which you will present them. This will help you stay focused and maintain a logical flow throughout your writing.

  2. Start Strong: Grab the reader's attention from the beginning with a strong introduction. Use an engaging hook, compelling anecdote, or thought-provoking question to draw readers in and make them want to continue reading.

  3. Focus on Clarity: Aim for clarity in your writing by using simple and straightforward language. Avoid jargon, technical terms, or convoluted sentences that may confuse readers. Be concise and precise in your expression, conveying your ideas clearly and effectively.

  4. Use Active Voice: Whenever possible, use active voice instead of passive voice to make your writing more direct and engaging. Active voice adds clarity and immediacy to your sentences, making them more dynamic and impactful.

  5. Edit for Conciseness: Review your writing to identify and eliminate unnecessary words, phrases, or repetitions. Tighten your prose by cutting out filler words, redundant expressions, and extraneous details that do not contribute to your main message.

  6. Check for Consistency: Ensure consistency in your writing by maintaining a consistent tone, style, and voice throughout your piece. Pay attention to formatting, punctuation, and grammar to maintain a professional and polished appearance.

  7. Provide Supporting Evidence: Back up your arguments and claims with relevant evidence, examples, and citations. Use data, statistics, quotes, and research findings to support your points and enhance the credibility of your writing.

  8. Create Smooth Transitions: Use transition words and phrases to create seamless connections between ideas and paragraphs. Transitions help guide the reader through your writing, making it easier to follow your train of thought and understand the relationships between different parts of your piece.

  9. Read Aloud and Revise: Read your writing aloud to yourself or someone else to identify any awkward phrasing, unclear sentences, or grammatical errors. Pay attention to the rhythm, flow, and coherence of your writing, and revise as needed to improve clarity and readability.

  10. Seek Feedback: Share your writing with peers, mentors, or writing groups to get feedback and constructive criticism. Consider their suggestions and recommendations for improvement, and use them to revise and refine your work further.

  11. Take Breaks and Revise: Give yourself time to step away from your writing and come back to it with fresh eyes. Taking breaks allows you to gain perspective and approach your work with a critical eye, making it easier to identify areas that need revision or fine-tuning.

By implementing these strategies and dedicating time to fine-tune your writing, you can elevate the quality of your work and communicate your ideas more effectively to your audience.

Vocabulary

Lesson Reading

Videos and Interactives (Click on Images to View Content)

Fine-tuning Your Writing

Click Image to View Video on Fine-tuning Your Writing

Verbs with their Synonyms

Click Image to Launch Interactive Presentation on Verbs with their Synonyms

Using Strategies to Fine-Tune Writing

Click Image to Launch Interactive Presentation on Using Strategies to Fine-Tune Writing

 

Lesson - Unit 5: Listening, Viewing, Speaking Communicating Face to Face

Unit 5: Listening, Viewing, Speaking, Communicating Face to Face

Unit 5: Listening, Viewing, Speaking, Communicating Face to Face Banner

Unit 5: Listening, Viewing, Speaking Communicating Face to Face

Friends talking over a mealUnit 5: Listening, Viewing, Speaking, Communicating Face to Face

Improving your skills in listening, viewing, speaking, and face-to-face communication is essential for effective interpersonal interactions and successful communication. Here are strategies to enhance each of these communication skills:

  1. Listening:

    • Practice active listening by giving your full attention to the speaker and focusing on what they are saying without interrupting.
    • Maintain eye contact, nod, and use verbal and nonverbal cues to show that you are engaged and attentive.
    • Avoid distractions and external noise that may interfere with your ability to listen effectively.
    • Summarize or paraphrase what you've heard to confirm your understanding and demonstrate that you are actively listening.
    • Ask clarifying questions to gather more information and show interest in the speaker's perspective.
  2. Viewing:

    • Develop critical viewing skills by analyzing and evaluating visual media such as photographs, videos, films, and presentations.
    • Pay attention to visual elements such as composition, color, lighting, framing, and symbolism to interpret the intended message or meaning.
    • Consider the context, audience, and purpose of the visual media to understand its impact and effectiveness.
    • Engage in discussions or reflection exercises to share your interpretations and perspectives on visual content with others.
    • Practice visual literacy by creating your own visual media and experimenting with different techniques and styles.
  3. Speaking:

    • Practice clear and articulate speech by enunciating words, modulating your tone, and speaking at an appropriate pace and volume.
    • Organize your thoughts and structure your speech with a clear introduction, main points, and conclusion to enhance coherence and clarity.
    • Use persuasive techniques such as storytelling, evidence, examples, and emotional appeals to engage your audience and convey your message effectively.
    • Adapt your language and communication style to the needs and preferences of your audience, considering factors such as age, background, and cultural context.
    • Seek opportunities to practice public speaking, presentations, and group discussions to build confidence and improve your speaking skills.
  4. Communicating Face to Face:

    • Pay attention to nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, body language, gestures, and posture to understand the emotions and intentions of others.
    • Maintain open and positive body language by smiling, making eye contact, and using appropriate gestures to convey warmth and receptiveness.
    • Practice empathy and active listening skills to build rapport, establish trust, and foster effective communication in face-to-face interactions.
    • Be mindful of cultural differences and norms regarding personal space, greetings, and social etiquette when communicating with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
    • Practice assertiveness and effective conflict resolution techniques to address differences or disagreements respectfully and constructively.

By incorporating these strategies into your daily interactions and communication practices, you can enhance your listening, viewing, speaking, and face-to-face communication skills, leading to more meaningful and productive exchanges with others.

 

Vocabulary

Lesson Reading

Videos and Interactives (Click on Images to View Content)

Face-to-Face Communication

Click Image to View VideoFace-to-Face Communication

Communication Skills

Click Image to Launch Interactive Presentation on Communication Skills

Using Your Voice and Body

Click Image to Launch Interactive Presentation on Using Your Voice and Body

 

Lesson - Unit 6: Literature—Discovering the World, Discovering Ourselves

Unit 6: Literature—Discovering the World, Discovering Ourselves

Unit 6: Literature—Discovering the World, Discovering Ourselves Banner

Unit 6: Literature—Discovering the World, Discovering Ourselves

Book Case ImageUnit 6: Literature—Discovering the World, Discovering Ourselves

Unit Focus

Reading

Listening, Viewing, Speaking

Language

Literature

Vocabulary

Lesson Reading

Videos and Interactives (Click on Images to View Content)

Fiction vs Nonfiction English

Click Image to View Video on Fiction vs Nonfiction English

Literature for Interpretation

Literature for Interpretation Interactive

Oral Interpretations

Oral Interpretations Interactive