American literature is a year-long course designed to complement the American history course taught concurrently. Both courses are required of 11th graders. Students are introduced to selections of fiction, non-fiction, drama and poetry from early colonists and native peoples up to the present-day writers. Each selection is taught within its historical context and connected to social, political, and artistic movements of the era. 

Students are expected to read and analyze each selection as directed, to participate in discussions, and to write in-depth essays that select proficient writing skills and understanding of content and style. Students will also write original poetry, study usage and grammar, learn new vocabulary specific to literature, and develop an understanding and appreciation of the variety of perspectives found in a multi-cultural society, as expressed in its literature.