The English 1A and 2A (Pre-IB) classes are designed to prepare Andrew Hill freshmen and sophomores to successfully complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program requirements during their junior and senior years. The class is based on a modified English 1/2 Honors curriculum which meets California State Standards as well as the rigorous requirements of the IBO.

The classes are conducted using a seminar format which will require some adjustment time for many who are new to this learning method due to its dependency on student participation.

You will find that the IB program is "student-centered" in the sense that students are more involved in the learning process. Over time, as you progress, you will find that the program is also "student-directed," in the sense that you, the student, will be responsible for making decisions about your individual plan as you advance into the upper class diploma program.

My job is to prepare you for the next step in the IB path. Since this is an advanced course, there are certain assumptions that I make.

For example, I assume that. . .

• you know how to write a well constructed essay of at least 5 paragraphs, using a variety of sentence types, proper grammar and spelling, and that you are able to develop a thesis with logical and convincing support.
• you are an avid reader with a daily reading regimen that includes novels as well as magazines and newspapers.
• you look up words in the dictionary when you are not sure of their meaning or contextual usage. (See the list of recommended references elsewhere at this site)
• you will complete assignments when they are due so that you will be able to contribute to the discussions that follow.
• your work will be original.
• you will ask questions when an assignment is unclear, or when you do not understand a lesson.
• you will ask questions when you want to know more.
• since you have volunteered for this program you will be in class on time and have the necessary materials and required texts.

Information about these courses, including the green sheets, is available on line. A calendar is updated every 6 weeks. Progress reports and grades are posted on line. Study guides and other informational material are also posted on line. All assignments will be posted on line. The web postings are for your convenience and so that your parents may track your progress. There is no requirement to own a computer or to have internet access at home since all work will also be explained in class.

You will be assigned a computer for class work. The computer will be available for your use at all times, whenever the classroom is open, usually until 3:30 each day. It is your responsibility to keep up with the schedule and assignment due dates.

One of the fundamental requirements of the IB program is community and extracurricular involvement. Working with the IB coordinator, you will be required to choose an outside activity in which to become involved. You are also encouraged to join a school club and participate in school activities and other school projects.