This English II syllabus aligns with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for Grade 10, covering literary analysis, informational texts, argumentative writing, and multimodal composition.

Unit 1: Literary Analysis & Short Fiction

Focus: Reading and analyzing fictional short stories and literary texts.

• TEKS Alignment:
  • Reading: Fig. 19B, 2A, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D
  • Writing: 14A, 14B, 15A
• Key Skills:
  • Analyze plot development, characterization, and conflict.
  • Evaluate how authors use stylistic choices and figurative language.
  • Write analytical paragraphs citing textual evidence.

Unit 2: Informational Text & Author’s Purpose

• Focus: Examining expository and informational nonfiction texts.
• TEKS Alignment:
  • Reading: 4A, 4B, 4C, 8A, 8B
  • Writing: 14C, 16A
• Key Skills:
  • Evaluate organizational patterns in expository texts.
  • Analyze the author’s purpose, central thesis, and supporting evidence.
  • Compose informative summaries and short response essays.

Unit 3: Argumentative Writing & Rhetorical Analysis

• Focus: Deconstructing and constructing persuasive arguments.

• TEKS Alignment:
  • Reading: 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D
  • Writing: 14D, 15B
• Key Skills:
  • Identify rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, logos) and logical fallacies.
  • Write a formal argumentative essay with a clear thesis and counter-argument.
  • Refine claims using credible evidence and precise language.

Unit 4: Poetry & Drama

• Focus: Exploring poetic structures, dramatic conventions, and themes.
• TEKS Alignment:
  • Reading: 3A, 3B, 5A, 7A
  • Writing: 15A, 15C
• Key Skills:
  • Analyze sound devices, meter, and structure in poetry.
  • Examine dramatic elements, character dialogue, and staging in plays.
  • Write creative or analytical responses comparing poetic and dramatic themes.

Unit 5: Research & Inquiry

• Focus: Conducting short-term research and synthesizing findings.
• TEKS Alignment:
  • Reading: 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D
  • Writing: 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E
• Key Skills:
  • Formulate inquiry questions and evaluate primary and secondary sources.
  • Gather, organize, and synthesize relevant information.
  • Avoid plagiarism and properly cite sources using MLA format.

Unit 6: Multimodal Composition & Presentation

• Focus: Synthesizing year-long learning through digital and oral communication.
• TEKS Alignment:
  • Reading: 10A, 10B, 10C
  • Writing: 16B, 18A, 18B, 18C
• Key Skills:
  • Analyze media and digital communication methods.
  • Design a multimodal presentation connecting textual themes to real-world issues.
  • Deliver an effective formal oral presentation to peers.