English IV consists of four chapters in a continuous high school English curricula designed to prepare students for post-high school studies and careers which require critical interpretive skills in language, reading, and writing. This course also serves as an introduction to philosophy because it consists of selections that equip students with perspectives on theology, economies, social activists, and thinkers who encourage freedom and virtue, and to authors who express philosophies which inhibit freedom and virtue.

This course provides a study of the major world authors who were “firsts” in their fields of philosophy, reform, politics, science, religion, drama, poetry, novels, short stories, essays, biographies, and autobiographies. This study takes a historical approach to literature, touching on ancient writings and progressing through the Dark Ages, the Medieval Era, and into Modern times. This course also addresses cultural traditions of oral recitation, myth, fable, legend, parable, and folklore. The student will learn to recognize literary characteristics such as theme, tone, and voice, as well as techniques to enhance interest, including anaphora, refrain, and many more components of literature. This is an excellent Advanced Placement (AP) resource!

The accompanying Activities will stretch a student’s writing and critical thinking skills, and require memorization using the Benjamin Franklin approach to learning. Activities will propel the student toward achieving literary and critical excellence and will enable the student to interpret important literary themes. As with all PAC courses, teachers may purchase all four chapters or may purchase only those chapters which are preferred. Teachers may exercise personal preference for constructing a course by selecting specific chapters from those available in English I through IV.

A major feature of all Paradigm English courses is the vignette approach, carefully designed to engage students to aspire towards noble character and life purpose. During the learning process, students enhance vocabulary, build moral character, and gain insight on how to make wise life choices. This is a strong course, especially recommended for AP and/or college-bound seniors.