Subject: Language Arts

English 9

Explore fiction, nonfiction, drama, and poetry while building skills in analysis, writing, and communication in this 9th-grade English course.

Course Type: Standard High School

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Credits: 1.0

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Course Description

English 9 introduces students to a diverse range of literary genres, including fiction, nonfiction, drama, poetry, and multimedia texts. Through close reading and discussion, students learn to analyze character development, thematic elements, rhetorical techniques, and figurative language. Writing assignments focus on narrative, informative, and argumentative styles, all supported with strong textual evidence.

The course is organized into seven modules, each connecting engaging themes to key English Language Arts skills. Students explore resilience in Against All Odds: Character Development, examine courage in Breaking Through Barriers: Figurative Language, and investigate morality in Crime Scenes: Text–Media Comparison & Informative Writing. Classic works like Romeo and Juliet and The Odyssey are studied alongside contemporary literature and multimedia sources, encouraging students to make connections across time, culture, and format.

By the end of the course, students will have strengthened their critical thinking, writing, and communication skills, preparing them for success in future English studies and standardized assessments such as the ACT. This 100% online, self-paced, asynchronous course allows students to progress on their own schedule while accessing all resources through the Learn Stage learning platform.

Course Objectives

Analyze and interpret literary and informational texts across multiple genres.

Identify and evaluate literary and rhetorical devices in context.

Write narrative, informative, and argumentative essays with supporting textual evidence.

Engage in collaborative discussions and present ideas clearly through various media.

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Course Contents

Module TitleModule Topic(s)
Against All Odds: Character Development
Breaking Through Barriers: Figurative Language
Crime Scenes: Text–Media Comparison & Informative Writing
Love and Loss: Theme & Dramatic Structure
Freedom at All Costs: Rhetorical Analysis & Irony
Epic Journeys: Epic Literature, Theme & Figurative Language
Final Project: Reflection

Recommended Prerequisites

Carnegie Credits Explained: Our Approach vs. Trimester Credits

Carnegie Credit System
Excel High School follows the Carnegie Credit system, a widely recognized method of measuring student progress based on instructional hours. A single Carnegie credit reflects approximately 120 hours of coursework, typically completed over a full academic year.

Carnegie Credit vs. Trimester Credit
While Carnegie credits are awarded based on total hours over a year, trimester credits divide the school year into three terms. In a trimester system, students complete courses in shorter, intensive sessions, often earning partial credits (e.g., 0.33 or 0.5 per term). In contrast, Excel’s use of Carnegie credits ensures students have ample time to engage deeply with the material and develop a well-rounded understanding at a consistent pace.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.