English 11: Literary Studies
This course has been designed to meet the requirements of the new English Language Arts 10-12 curriculum as outlined by the Ministry of Education. It is a 4 credit course that provides students with an English 11 credit.
View the complete Learning Standards for this course: English 11: Literary Studies
It is recommended that students take English 10 prior to enrolling in this course.
Course Description
Literary Studies 11 is a course designed for the student who loves literature! It is a survey course that spans historical time from the Norse roots of the English language through to contemporary modern examples. Beginning with the riveting epic tale of Beowulf, first penned in 700 AD, Literary Studies 11 wends its way through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, at look at the literary traditions of Indigenous people, and ending with a novel study. Explorations and learning happen through videos, readings, examples, and instructor feedback. Students show their learning through writing, presentations, projects, discussions and quizzes and tests.
Course Structure
The course is divided into five modules:
Module 1 – Early Literature
Introductory Discussion – Anglo Saxons
Section 1: Beowulf – Assignment: Beowulf research report
Section 2: The Canterbury Tales – Assignment: Character Profiles
Section 3: Medieval Ballads – Assignment: Ballad Writing
Module 1 Project
Module 2 – Renaissance Literature
Introductory Discussion: The Renaissance
Section 1: Carpe Diem – Assignment: Write Your Own Carpe Diem poem
Section 2: Sonnets – Assignment: Writing a Sonnet
Module 2 Project
Module 3 – Macbeth
Lesson 1: The Historical Context of Macbeth – Discussion: How Are You like or Unlike Macbeth
Lesson 2: Theme in Macbeth – Discussion: Theme in Story
Lesson 3: Archetype – Assignment: Dichotomy Presentation
Midterm Exam
Module 4 First People’s Perspectives
Section 1: Oral Traditions – Assignment: Creation/Transformer Stories
Section 2: Indigenous Literature – Discussion: Indigenous Literature
Module 4 Project
Module 5: Novel Study
Assignment 1: Setting Postcards
Assignment 2: Soundtrack to My Novel
Assignment 3: Essay
Grade Structure
| First Assignment | 10% |
| Module 1 Activities (assignments, discussion, project) | 15% |
| Module 2 Activities (assignments, discussion, project) | 15% |
| Module 3 Activities (assignments, discussions) | 20% |
| Module 4 Activities (assignments, discussion, project) | 15% |
| Module 5 Activities (assignments, essay) | 15% |
| Midterm and Final Exams | 10% |
Required Resources: a computer with internet access and speakers or headphones.