A Message from the Chair of the English Department

The Besant Hill School English Department provides a rigorous education in the reading, comprehension and contemplation of literature, as well its thoughtful interpretation through writing. Students are required to write, revise and edit works of both creative and academic writing. Courses put a special focus on the techniques of proper research strategies and writing. The literature covered in our courses spans the globe and the decades, and students acquire an understanding and appreciation for all types of writing and genres. In addition, our English courses cover vocabulary learning and emphasize the importance of class discussion and verbal articulation.

Students of English will begin with two year-long courses in their freshman and sophomore years that provide a foundation for their studies and teach them the proper techniques for writing and reading English. Students' junior year allows them choice in their subject matter and difficulty level. Junior and Senior students may choose between semester-long, subject-specific, seminar-style courses to complete their English requirements, or they may choose to challenge themselves in the year-long Honors Junior English or Advanced Placement: Literature and Composition in their senior year.

Portia Pelow-Dickerson
English Department Chair