[/media-credit]Carlmont’s administration and English teachers are discussing the future of creative writing and mythology.
Rumors are that the senior electives may be cut in the 2011-2012 school year. According to Carlmont administrators, staff members are not allowed to share any information concerning the courses.
“The decision about whether to continue the elective program is not made yet. In fact, the question is under discussion right now, and there are many possible outcomes,” stated English teacher Carole Pierce.
Creative writing is a course that helps develop each student’s voice and writing technique. “[Students] focus on stylistic devices and rhetorical structures and strategies,” stated creative writing teacher Gail Langkusch.
In creative writing, students’ evaluations are expressed through writing, class discussions, and Socratic seminars. As students develop a greater understanding of the proficiency of writing, they write various segments based on the material read. “If the assignment focuses on ‘The Iceberg Theory,’ they read stories that exemplify this, and then write their own stories,” Langkusch said.
The objective of the course is for students to understand the essential relationship between inclusive reading and superb writing. Students register for creative writing to improve their writing skills and want to challenge themselves.
In mythology, students explore various world cultures such as African, Asian, Latin American, and Native American. They also read mythology that has had a great significance on Western culture, for the most part focusing on Classical mythology and the Celtic/Arthurian cycle of legends.
“I want to take mythology because it seems like a fun and interesting class. I would also like to learn more about Greek mythology,” junior student Matt Wood stated.
Senior student Casey Schade reacted by stating, “Mythology and creative writing are classes that draw students into the love of learning. Without these classes, students would view school as more mundane and their interest in learning would decrease.”
English Instructional Leader Raphael Kauffmann and Instructional Vice Principal Robert Fishtrom said that the reasons why the courses may be cut are confidential.
“Giving options to students gives opportunities for growth in specific fields that interest them. I’ve been waiting for creative writing since freshman year because writing has been a passion of mine. I’m so happy that I was able to take a course that really kept my interest at school,” senior student Ashley Browning concluded.
Fishtrom said, “We know that there are a lot of concerns regarding English IV courses for next year. Please know that we review all facets for our instructional programs that include course offerings, staffing and budgeting matters.”
