English 1 is a course intended to strengthen basic English skills and provide the building blocks for continuing in the mastery of English, communication, and literature.  In the successful completion of this course, students will be able to speak and write using standard American English, broaden his/her vocabulary, gain proficiency in public speaking, apply appropriate interviewing techniques, write coherent and focused essays and business letters, know about Shakespeare, and read and understand grade-level-appropriate material including The Pearl by Steinbeck, short stories by O. Henry, Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare, and poetry by various writers.