English

ENG3U sharpens students’ critical thinking, communication, and literacy skills through the study of complex literary texts.

Students explore a range of genres including

• Novels
• Plays
• Poetry
• Non-fiction
• While developing their skills in literary analysis
• Argumentative writing
• Effective oral communication.

The course emphasizes coherent expression, analytical reading, and the ability to form and support arguments in both written and verbal formats. ENG3U prepares students for university-level English and interdisciplinary academic success.

Unit 1: Exploring Literature Through Short Stories and Non-Fiction
Students begin by analyzing short texts to build foundational literary skills.
Lessons include:

• Reading Strategies & Literary Devices
• Identifying Voice, Tone, and Mood
• Close Reading & Textual Evidence
• Non-Fiction: Editorials, Essays, Memoirs
• Figurative Language and Purpose

Unit 2: Shakespearean Drama – Macbeth
This unit develops skills in classical analysis through the study of Shakespeare’s Macbeth
Lessons include:

• Shakespeare’s Language and Structure
• Plot and Character Analysis
• Themes: Ambition, Guilt, Fate vs. Free Will
• Symbolism and Imagery
• Oral Presentations and Dramatic Interpretation

Unit 3: Novel Study – The Catcher in the Rye
Students read and analyze a novel focusing on character, setting, and theme.
Lessons include:

• Character Development and Conflict
• Narrative Voice and Perspective
• Social Context and Themes of Alienation
• Literary Criticism and Essay Writing

Unit 4: Poetry and Modern Media
This unit combines poetic expression with media literacy.
Lessons include:

• Poetic Forms and Devices
• Analyzing Themes in Poetry
• Visual and Digital Text Analysis
• Crafting Personal and Critical Responses
• Media Representations and Bias

Unit 5: Final Culminating & Exam
Students complete a major written task and a final exam that synthesizes course learning.
Lessons include:

• Culminating Essay or Presentation (10% of grade)
• Final Exam (20% of grade)

• 70% of the final grade is based on coursework, including:
  • Literary analysis essays, response journals, and discussion posts
  • Text-based assignments and oral presentations
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating assignment (e.g., comparative essay or media analysis)
  • 20% Final written exam (text analysis, grammar, and argument writing)

All assessments align with Ontario curriculum expectations and are designed to prepare students for university-level critical reading, writing, and communication.