English II is designed to introduce students to major works and authors in World Literature. Through close examination, discussion, and writing, students will analyze the varied themes and structures of World Literature. English II is further designed to ensure students master conventions of standard American English in writing. Students will take the SAT or ACT in their junior year; this course will therefore emphasize grammar, writing styles and techniques, and the writing process in preparation for the writing sections of those exams. We will consider complex sentence structure, organizational patterns used in essays, and a refinement of vocabulary skills. English II students will read at least three major literary works, use a textbook series specifically tailored to high academic standards, and engage in daily grammar or writing exercises. These skills will be used to prepare students for the North Carolina English II End-of-Course Exam. All English II students will have to complete an argumentative research paper that will be introduced towards the middle of the semester and will be due at the end of the semester.