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The English Department at Holy Spirit Prep
 

Department Links & Articles

Writing Links:

HSP English Department Style Sheet

Proofreading symbols

MS writing rubric

HS writing rubric

How to write Thesis Statements

How to write STRONG Thesis Statements

Elements of Style

Top Ten College Essay Do’s and Don’ts

English Department Philosophy
The Holy Spirit Prep English department focuses on developing skills that will help students to achieve academic success, but more importantly personal success. We study both classical and contemporary literature in order to strike a balance between reverence and appreciation for past literary influences, as well as excitement for and participation in current and future literary achievements.

We believe that knowledge of the fundamental elements literature, drama, and poetry are necessary for an appreciation of the more complex issues that these works can address. We encourage students to read a variety of literature; this includes department selected books as well as student selected books. Giving students an opportunity to choose their own reading is a crucial step in ensuring that they develop a lifelong appreciation for literature.

In addition to literary study, we also believe that repeated practice of the steps of the writing process from conception to completion is essential. Each year students complete several writing projects. Our writing places a heavy emphasis on analysis and research so that these skills can be practiced and perfected. In addition to traditional writing projects, we also use several alternative projects in order to encourage students to express themselves through their own unique strengths.

Class discussions compliment the student’s reading and writing skills to complete the range of self-expression. Both formal and informal discussions enable student to develop the ability to formulate and express ideas orally. They also give students an avenue to refine their ideas, especially in relation to their view of the world as a Catholic.
 

Top Ten Tips for Writing the College Essay

MLA Style website

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