You will learn how to annotate or mark a text as you read and re-read to gain a deeper understanding of the text.

You will read and annotate paired texts in order to make inferences, draw conclusions, and synthesize ideas and details using textual evidence.

You will be able to compare and contrast similar themes from different genres and different time periods.

You will become acquainted with the origins and meanings of foreign words and phrases frequently used in English texts.

You will learn how to use dictionaries, glossaries, and thesauri in order to determine meanings of words and phrases, including their denotations, connotations, and etymologies.

You will learn to analyze the meter, rhyme scheme, line length, punctuation, and word position in poetry.

You will understand and analyze how archetypes and motifs in drama affect the plot of plays.

You will be able to evaluate the role of syntax in literary non-fiction such as speeches, essays, and other forms.

You will be able to evaluate a text for the clarity and appeal of its graphics.

You will be able to synthesize information that you find in charts and graphs.

You will read carefully in order to identify diction, tone, and irony, and evaluate their impact on the meaning of a text.

You will read carefully in order to identify allusion, imagery, metaphor, and symbolism, and evaluate their impact on the meaning of a text.

You will learn proofreading techniques to use in checking for correct capitalization.

You will learn proofreading techniques to use in checking for correct spelling.

You will proofread and mark errors in spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.

You will be able to distinguish between the denotative (dictionary) meaning of a word and its connotative (emotions or associations that are implied rather than literal) meaning.