In the Upper School, most English courses are literature-based, and most writing is focused on thesis-driven

 essays and papers that demand critical thinking, close reading, textual analysis and research skills.  Some courses are also team taught and take a multidisciplinary approach to world literature, our local Front Range community and human rights.  The department also offers courses that allow students to explore creative writing in the context of poetry and short story courses.  Students are exposed to literature ranging from classics of the ancient, medieval and early modern worlds to contemporary masterpieces.  Attention is given to the cultural, aesthetic, ethical, and historical dimensions of literature.  Western European literature as well as a wide range of World literature is studied.  Students have opportunities to explore the creative writing of poetry, short stories and translations as well as develop their expository writing.  Advanced grammatical and stylistic instruction is increasingly linked to precision of reading comprehension, analysis, and effective, attractive communication in written work. Students in the Upper School are challenged to become rigorous critical thinkers; close, careful readers; and precise, persuasive speakers and writers who see the study of literature and writing as a vehicle for self-discovery and for an empathic exploration of the world beyond the self.