Literature & Poetry

HLN students take Literature & Poetry every year.

Grammar School Literature & Poetry 

These classes focus on the development of reading skills through the study of carefully chosen classic books. Reading requires an active, discriminating mind that is challenged to define, analyze, compare, and contrast. The focus during these years is on becoming an active reader. Coursework will emphasize vocabulary and comprehension. Poetry selections to complement the readings will be included and students will recite in front of their class as well as to the entire school on occasion. (Grades 3-6)

Literature A – Grade 3 

  • Farmer Boy, Charlotte’s Web, A Bear Called Paddington, & Mr. Popper’s Penguins
  • Poetry for the Grammar Stage

Literature B – Grades 4-5

  • The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Heidi, Lassie
  • Poetry for the Grammar Stage

Literature C – Grades 5-6 

  • Adam of the Road, Robin Hood, King Arthur, Door in the Wall
  • Poetry for the Grammar Stage

Literature D – Grades 6-7 

…………………………………..

Upper School Literature & Poetry 

Upper School Literature and Poetry classes are a continuation of grammar school literature at a higher level of active reading skills. They include poetry study that ensures a thorough mastery and appreciation for these classic works.  Students will participate in discussion, memorization, and recitations. High school level courses will include essays. 

Literature E – Grades 7-8 

  • Treasure Island, Wind in the Willows, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Tom Sawyer
  • Poetry & Short Stories for the Logic Stage

Literature F – Grades 8-9

  • Beowulf, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, The Canterbury Tales (selections), Henry V
  • The British Tradition I: Poetry, Prose, & Drama from the Old English & Medieval Periods 
  • Book of the Middle Ages

Literature G – Grades 9-12 

  • The Scarlet Letter, Julius Caesar, To Kill a Mockingbird
  • The British Tradition II: Poetry & Prose from the Elizabethan to the Neoclassical Age

Literature H – Grades 9-12 

  • Pride and Prejudice, A Tale of Two Cities, Romeo and Juliet
  • The British Tradition III: Poetry from the Romantic to the Victorian Age

Literature I – Grades 10-12

  • The Divine Comedy

Literature J – Grade 11-12 

  • Anna Karenina, Hamlet, & Jayber Crow