English

ENG4U focuses on developing students’ analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills through the study of literary texts, media, and academic writing.

The course prepares students for university-level reading and writing by examining complex texts and encouraging independent literary analysis.

• Scarcity
• Corporations,
• Supply and demand
• Fiscal policy,
• Trade
• Inequality
• Market structures

Through essays, media critiques, and presentations, students refine their ability to express ideas with clarity and depth across various genres and formats.

Unit 1: Academic Writing and Literary Analysis
Students develop foundational writing skills for academic success.
Lessons include:

• Types of Essay Writing
• Audience and Purpose
• Crafting a Thesis and Selecting Topics
• Formal vs. Informal Writing
• Methods of Development
• Essay Structure and Organization
• Introductions,
• Conclusions, and Transitions

Unit 2: Shakespearean Literature – Hamlet
This unit explores dramatic structure, themes, and characterization in a major play.
Lessons include:

• Introduction to Hamlet and Context
• Act I through Act V (Scene-by-Scene Analysis)
• Literary Devices in Drama
• Symbolism, Themes, and Tragic Structure
• Interpretations and Critical Readings

Unit 3: Media Studies and Rhetoric
Students analyze how language and visuals shape meaning in media.
Lessons include:

• Introduction to Media Literacy
• Advertising and Persuasion Techniques
• Power of Words and Images
• Deconstructing Media Messages
• The Art of Persuasion and Rhetorical Devices
• Advertising Strategies in Practice

Unit 4: Novel Study – The Great Gatsby
Students apply literary analysis to a classic novel and its social commentary.
Lessons include:

• Introduction to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Era
• Chapter-by-Chapter Analysis (Ch. 1–9)
• Character and Symbol Analysis
• Themes: The American Dream, Class, and Morality
• Visual Adaptations and Literary Comparisons

Unit 5: Final Evaluation
Students consolidate their learning through writing and multimedia projects.
Lessons include:

• Culminating Literary Essay
• Final Exam

• 70% of the final grade is based on coursework, including:
  • Analytical essays and literary response papers
  • Media critique assignments and creative projects
  • Novel and play-based thematic discussions
  • Reading comprehension tests and writing workshops
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating essay or creative portfolio
  • 20% Final exam assessing reading, writing, and analysis skills

All assessments follow Ontario curriculum standards and are designed to prepare students for postsecondary academic writing and critical analysis.