Curriculum Detail

English

Students are required to take one English course each of their four years at Burr and Burton (9-12). While students may take senior elective courses in sophomore or junior year, these courses do not fulfill the senior year required English course. In English courses,
  • Students discover the power of voice in speech and writing by developing control over style and content; 
  • Students find personal meaning and enjoyment through reading across a variety of genres, time periods, and cultures; 
  • Students become discerning and independent thinkers. Over the course of four years, English students create and curate a writing portfolio that showcases their work, growth, and skill in a variety of genres.

  • AP English Language and Composition

    Juniors and Seniors

    This course fulfills the junior English requirement, or the senior English requirement if taken during senior year. Sophomores who have successfully completed CP English 2 are eligible if space is available.

    AP English Language and Composition is a study of rhetoric, a class on argument and persuasion. Students learn rhetorical strategies and devices to become more effective writers and readers of argument. Writing tasks focus on synthesizing sources to support arguments, developing positions through frameworks that extend a line of reasoning, using evidence effectively, and writing with a mature style that embraces complexity. Students read challenging texts, including speeches, letters, essays, and a variety of nonfiction as they learn to recognize how the rhetorical situation relates to the purpose and strategies employed by authors. Current events are emphasized as students read and make arguments that are relevant to their world. Students also gain experience in public speaking though discussions, speeches, and debates. PREREQUISITE: It is recommended that students have an A- or better in CP English 2 or 3, and the endorsement of their English teacher. All students must complete the pre-course reading and essay requirements. Students opting to take the AP exam are responsible for the exam fee of approximately $100 (fee reduction applications are available in the school counseling office).

  • AP Literature and Composition

    Juniors and Seniors

    This course fulfills the junior English requirement, or the senior English requirement if taken during senior year. Sophomores who have successfully completed CP English 2 are eligible if space is available.

    This is a literature course featuring novels, plays, short stories, and poetry. It focuses on literary analysis and interpretation. The course is taught seminar style; class participation is essential to the success of each student. Moreover, writing, both long and short essays, is a frequent component of the class. Student-teacher conferences are frequently required, as is public speaking in the form of both speeches and poetry recitation. Readings come from many periods in both U.S. and world literature, and may include: Four Souls, Ceremony, Beloved, A Tale of Two Cities, Much Ado About Nothing, Antigone, and a large variety of poetry and short stories. When possible, local authors visit to discuss their work, and students travel to the Manchester Community Library to interact with visiting writers. This course is designed to support student success in taking the AP exam. PREREQUISITE: Interested students should have the endorsement of their English 2 or English 3 teacher. Students must complete the pre-course reading and essay requirements. Students opting to take the AP exam are responsible for the exam fee of approximately $100 (fee reduction applications are available in the school counseling office).

  • CP Creative Writing

    Designed for the aspiring writer and for students who want to experiment with writing, the format of this class is a workshop, in which students create their own original work and give constructive feedback to fellow classmates. Students explore a wide variety of genres, including memoir, plays and screenplays, poetry, short stories, novels and children’s books. They write personal narratives, soliloquies, a one act play, poetry, short stories, journal entries and responses to specific readings. In the final weeks of the class, students study the novel and write a chapter of their own “would-be” novel. The course culminates with students developing a children’s book and polishing their favorite piece for publication in Between Ranges, the school literary magazine.

  • CP English 2: Literature and Composition

    1 elective credit 

    Internships are available through Farm and Food Studies, focusing on vegetable production and management. Interested students should see Work Based Learning for more details on the internship process and should reach out to the Farm and Food Studies coordinator.

  • CP English 3: Self and Experience

    How does experience contribute to culture and individual identity? Through the study of literature, primarily from U.S. authors, students examine this question as they read and write about a variety of times, places, and perspectives. Students take the skills and concepts they learned in CP Humanities 1 and CP English 2 and apply those skills to increasingly complex tasks, including an evaluative essay. Potential readings include One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, A Raisin in the Sun, The Crucible, The Great Gatsby, The Color Purple, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Into the Wild, Catcher in the Rye, The Round House, When the Emperor Was Divine, and various essays, short stories, and poetry. After completing the course, students are prepared to take either one of the two Advanced Placement English courses, or a senior English course. Students who wish to pursue advanced reading assignments and writing/research projects may take this course for honors credit. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP English 2.

  • CP History of Hip Hop

    Seniors. Recommended Juniors as a social studies elective if space is available.

    1 social studies or 1 English credit

    Students in this course examine the history of hip hop music to develop a deeper understanding of both American and African-American culture. Students explore Black music history from the Blues to contemporary hip hop. They learn about the rich culture of hip hop, trace influences, and use music to make connections to history. Readings include a wide variety of nonfiction and fiction; students also listen to diverse music in order to learn to “read” songs and to analyze them. Literary study, creative writing, historical research, and the opportunity to make original music are all featured aspects of the class. This course fulfills either the senior English or senior social studies requirement for graduation.

  • CP Holocaust Studies

    This course is offered every other year (Offered in 2025-2026)

    Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors

    1 social studies or 1 English credit

    With the events of the Nazi Holocaust as a focus, students engage in active study of human nature as it relates to the good and evil in each of us. The course explores fundamental questions about identity, belonging, and group dynamics: Who am I? What shapes my identity? Why do people form groups? What does it mean to belong? What happens when people are excluded from membership? Through study of how intelligent individuals and societies become perpetrators of evil, students examine the everyday choices that can lead to an ‘us vs. them’ mentality, while reflecting on their own decision-making, moral responsibility, and lessons that can be learned from the Holocaust. They view films including Schindler's List and read, discuss, and debate works by Elie Wiesel, Adolf Hitler, Simon Wiesenthal and others. Students also investigate contemporary situations related to the issues raised in the course and create a final project in a medium of their choice.

  • CP Humanities 1

    2 credits (1 English, 1 social studies)

    This year-long class is a simultaneous exploration of literary genres and culture. The essential skills and understandings from both English and social studies are combined to offer students context and connection, as well as opportunities to explore issues and themes from multiple perspectives and make global connections that lead to in-depth understanding. Students learn how to become active readers and develop their writing skills in a variety of genres. Students transition to their new school through an orientation to the library, the technology, and the culture of Burr and Burton. Using historical as well as contemporary issues as a lens, students consider the following essential question: what does it mean to be human? Through this question, students explore the themes of individualism and community, tradition and change, and culture as a source of power. Students write memoir, poetry, fiction, and response to text essays; they work towards synthesis of evidence and the development of arguments. Texts include The Poet X, Darius the Great Is Not Okay, and Born a Crime, as well as classic and contemporary science fiction. The course features projects involving oration, debate, art, and music as students develop an understanding of the human condition through literature, history, art history, and philosophy.

  • CP Introduction to Journalism

    In a day and age when publishing for likes or hits seems to take precedence over facts and logic, how do we think critically about the media? How do we build our journalistic skills in order to become lifelong responsible creators and users of media? Through the study of a wide variety of nonfiction--from brief hard news to in-depth investigative journalism--students explore and examine this question, look closely at the ethics and responsibilities of a good journalist, and practice different forms and styles of writing. Students write news articles, create podcasts, and complete independent reading projects. As their final project, they put all of their skills to use by creating a newsletter for the school.

  • CP Myth and Memoir: Telling Stories

    Why do people tell stories? Why do communities tell myths and legends? What are the connections between story and identity? This course explores the vital role that storytelling plays in our lives and how it shapes our sense of who we are. Students read creation myths from around the world as well as a wide variety of personal narratives, and they study the pantheon of Greek and Norse gods and their associated stories. Nonfiction sources include excerpts from The Power of Myth, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Black Sheep: How Our Family Stories Shape Us, and theory by Carl Jung. Students write and revise papers, keep a daily response journal, and perform and present stories to the class via creative storytelling projects. The structure of the course offers students a pre-collegiate experience and allows for individualized research pursuits into myths and cultures not covered in the syllabus.

  • CP Neurodiversity Studies

    Juniors, Seniors, and Sophomores with permission of the teacher

    1 social studies or 1 English credit

    In this class, students examine the history of the Neurodiversity movement, how Neurodivergent people were marginalized in the past, and the ongoing bias, discrimination, and challenges that Neurodivergent people continue to face. Students learn how to discuss these topics affirmingly. The course is centered on authentic works by Neurodivergent people and focuses on learning from their lived experiences. Although students discuss many forms of Neurodivergence, the readings and course materials are primarily about Down's Syndrome, Autism, and ADHD. This course offers a learning opportunity for students who believe in a more Neuro-Inclusive future and/or who want to learn more about Neurodivergent people or themselves; it also helps students to feel more comfortable engaging with and talking about Neurodivergence. Because this class involves discussing sensitive topics, Neurodivergent people (and very empathetic allies) are advised to meet with the teacher prior to the start of the course, to create a communication plan.

  • CP Page to Stage: Writing, Speaking, and Acting

    1 English credit or 1 arts credit

    This interdisciplinary course allows students to understand and appreciate the synergy and creativity that happens when creative storytelling and writing moves from the page to the stage. Students work on writing original scenes and screenplays while also composing memoir, satirical pieces, and persuasive essays and speeches. Students develop public speaking skills through a range of performance experiences including speeches, debates, monologues, and an investigation of stage and film acting. Students focus on their areas of interest (writing, performing, creating) but are expected to participate in all elements of the class. Readings include plays, essays, and informative texts. Students write personal and persuasive essays, including one that features research for a debate. Additional projects may feature film studies, presenting with visuals, conducting interviews, and poetry recitation. Students may repeat this course to focus on different concentrations and to further their skills. Students who repeat the course earn credit for PAGE TO STAGE: WRITING, SPEAKING, AND ACTING 2.

  • CP Speech and Composition

    This course includes (1) instruction and review of essential grammatical concepts necessary for correct and stylish syntax; (2) instruction and practice in the process of composition including the following: coming up with a topic, defining purpose, developing voice, outlining, and revising; (3) instruction and practice in a variety of writing tasks including personal narration, description, persuasion, and exposition; (4) reading a range of essays capturing many different voices and styles; (5) instruction and practice with speaking skills, particularly poise, effective body control, command of voice, and use of eye-contact; (6) development of personal identity and confidence through exploration and creation of writing topics and public speaking experiences; (7) a sense of friendship and community fostered through speaking activities, storytelling, peer conferencing, and the facing and conquering of a common fear. Readings include a variety of independent reading selections. The course culminates in a research-based presentation.

  • English Workshop 2

    This course is designed as a workshop to provide sophomores with individualized instruction in reading and writing. Emphasis is on the writing process as students work on a wide variety of writing assignments; tasks are broken down and students receive support throughout the process. Through regular conferences, students learn fundamental writing skills, which they apply to their work. Students practice reading comprehension strategies and use independent reading assignments to foster an interest in reading and in effective reading habits. Goal setting, accountability, and personal reflection are encouraged. Admission to this class is determined by the English department, in consultation with the school counselors, the academic dean, and the special services department.

  • English Workshop 3

    This course is designed as a workshop to provide juniors with individualized instruction in reading and writing. Emphasis is on the writing process, as students work on a wide variety of writing assignments; tasks are broken down and students receive support throughout the process. Through regular conferences, students learn fundamental writing skills, which they apply to their work. Students practice reading comprehension strategies and use independent reading assignments to foster an interest in reading and in effective reading habits. Goal setting, accountability, and personal reflection are encouraged. Admission to this class is determined by the English department, in consultation with the school counselors, the academic dean, and the special services department.

  • Humanities Workshop 1

    2 credits (1 English, 1 social studies)
    This course is modeled on the CP Humanities 1 course but includes greater opportunities for review and practice. Directed at the improvement of the student’s reading, writing, thinking, problem solving, and research skills, this full-year course for freshmen is taught by one humanities teacher and one special educator in a workshop setting. Using historical as well as contemporary issues as a lens, students consider the following essential question: what does it mean to be human? Through this question, students explore the themes of individualism and community, tradition and change, and culture as a source of power. Texts include Born a Crime, The Gilded Ones, and Insurgent. Admission to this class is determined by the English and social studies departments, in consultation with the school counselors, the academic dean, and the special services department.

  • World Investigations

    World Investigations offers an exploration of geography, culture, politics, religion, and world relations within our global community. Students expand their understanding of how and why nations work together, while gaining insight into a variety of challenges and possible solutions. 
     

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57 Seminary Avenue, PO Box 498 Manchester, VT 05254
Phone: (802) 362-1775
Fax: 802-362-0574

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Burr and Burton Academy does not discriminate against any person or group on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), ancestry, national origin, place of birth, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, political affiliation or marital status in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities. Any person having inquiries concerning the school's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or other federal or state nondiscrimination laws or regulations is directed to The Headmaster's Office, Burr and Burton Academy, Manchester, VT 05254. Burr and Burton complies with all applicable state and federal nondiscrimination statutes, including the Vermont Public Accommodations Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 139), the Vermont Fair Employment Practices Act (21 V.S.A. Chapter 5, Subchapter 6) and Vermont State Board of Education rules 2226.6 and 2229.1.