English

The English Department
Amity's English program integrates the language arts skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The cornerstone in the development of these skills is clear, perceptive, and imaginative thinking.

The English department believes that literature exposes students to ideas which may challenge, confirm, or broaden their perspectives. Because we believe studying literature enables students to learn about the world outside our classroom and to be aware of social issues, we guide all students towards an appreciation and an interest in diverse forms of literature. Our department maintains a firm belief in the power of literature as a means of connecting–spanning time, place, and experience. The skills to read, write, speak, and listen effectively enable students to recognize their place in the changing world around them--to respect what has come before and to assume a role in the world they will help to shape. We believe in creating environments where students feel comfortable to express ideas, ask questions, and disagree with each other in thoughtful, insightful ways. We strive to cultivate empathy in our students for others in circumstances both like and unlike their own. We want students to have both the skills and the confidence to communicate because we believe that students have ideas worth expressing.