The comprehensive purpose of the Marquette University High School English Program is to develop the student's critical faculty to judge the quality of the printed page, to appreciate the human values woven into the fabric of enduring literature, and to cultivate the student's power of expression, both spoken and written, so that he may easily communicate his ideas clearly and imaginatively.
Every MUHS student must take four years of English. The freshman program introduces the student to basic skills and understandings he will need in order to pursue a college preparatory program successfully. Along with the traditional investigation of literature, study of grammar and writing of paragraphs and essays, the student learns efficient reading and study habits and library procedures.
The sophomore program is a continuation of the freshman program with the added expectation of greater depth of literary interpretation, study of usage and mechanics, and extensive experience in writing expository essays, particularly literary analysis essays and research papers in MLA format. Developing public speaking skill is also emphasized. Literary study focuses on American literature.
In his junior and senior years, the student takes a total of four semester-length courses. All seniors must choose two semester length electives or the year-long Advanced Placement section. All junior and senior courses require the student to demonstrate his refined powers of thought and expression in at least four expository essays each semester.