English

Harkness is a bilingual bicultural high school. Half of the classes are taught in English and half in Spanish.

English is a required class every year. Students read and write to realize and, subsequently, clarify what they know and believe. As close readers, students learn to engage both personally and analytically with complex texts and share their insights through lively discussions. Writing instruction emphasizes graceful expression, effective use of descriptive language, and the development of strong supporting detail as students stretch themselves in a variety of genres.

Writing process, revision, grammar, and vocabulary skills are interwoven throughout the curriculum as tools for making writing more vibrant and mechanically correct. Sophomores are required to take a class in English Fundamentals. Juniors are taught American Literature and Seniors take a class in World Literature. Seniors are also offered an elective in Journalism.