English Language Arts (ELA) is more than reading and writing. ELA involves:

• Communicating effectively in various places for many different audiences and reasons
• Selecting appropriate forms, structures and technology for a variety of contexts
• Understanding, appreciating and creating a broad range of texts (including multi-media, visual, oral, and print)

The English program at EM High has two basic aims. One aim is to enable each student to understand and appreciate language and to use it confidently and competently for a range of purposes, with diverse audiences and in a range of situations for communication, personal satisfaction and learning. A second aim is to encourage, in students, an understanding and appreciation of the significance and artistry of literature

As strong language users, students will be able to meet Alberta’s graduation requirements and will be prepared for entry into post-secondary studies or the workplace. Senior high school students must be prepared to meet evolving literacy demands in Canada and the international community.

Students are encouraged to consult with their teachers, parents and counselors to align their choice of English program with their personal plans in order to enhance their opportunity to successfully achieve their goals. For more detailed information about the various English programs (or pathways), please consult the Course Selection Guide.

Placing students for success is critical in the execution of every student’s personal plan. Decisions are based upon ensuring students have the necessary foundational knowledge to achieve success in their registered course.

Sequence of Courses

Changing Streams: Teacher recommendations are made with great care and attention. They are based upon ensuring students have the necessary foundation in place to achieve success in their registered course. Changes to this process can only be achieved through the following steps:

• Consultation with the subject teacher, Teacher Advisor, and/or Student Services.
• Teacher calls the parent
• Change Form signed if the parent is in agreement.
• Department Learning Leader approval & signature, prior to any changes made. 

English Language Arts 10-1, 20-1, and 30-1

This course sequence is for students of average or above average ability who wish to pursue further academic studies at the university level.  The ability to read and write well, to think critically and analytically, and to reason abstractly are definite assets for these courses.  Students of English 30-1 are required to write the 30-1 diploma examination.

English Language Arts 10-2, 20-2, and 30-2

This course sequence is for students with average ability or those who have been experiencing difficulty in English.  It is not a lesser version of the –1 stream but a program in and of itself designed to offer many strategies to maximize opportunities for success in English Language Arts.  Students of English 30-2 are required to write the 30-2 diploma examination.  This sequence is not designed to prepare students for entrance to university.\

Advanced Placement®

English Literature and Composition

Starting with English 10-1 AP-Cohort and 20-1 AP-Cohort students should appreciate the literature not only for its meaning but also for the personal gratification. They should recognize structure, style, archetypes and themes, as well as such smaller-scale elements as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, syntax, and tone. Students will experience, interpret and evaluate poetry, short fiction, novel, drama and non-fiction essays. This includes literature from British, Canadian, American, and international writers, as well as works written from the 16th century to contemporary times. By the time students complete both English 30-1 and English Literature and Composition 35, students will be prepared to write the AP exam in May that includes both multiple choice and three critical, analytical written responses.

More information on the English Language Arts AP page.