One major goal of AICE English General Paper is for students to achieve an understanding of (and ability in) the English language which enables them to express arguments, ideas, and opinions in a reflective and academic manner.

     Candidates are assessed on how clearly they communicate their responses including the range, accuracy, and appropriateness of vocabulary and spelling, use of register, grammar, and punctuation.  Assessment includes how the essay is structured in order to develop an argument, link and evaluate ideas, and draw supported conclusions.

       We will take a systematic approach to acquiring the grammar skills needed to meet the "ability in" goals, using Bedford's A Commonsense Guide to Grammar and Usage as our main resource. The Cambridge exam graders will scrutinize student essays as they apply this portion of the rubric. Each student should download this document and keep it handy for the duration of the school year, along with a syllabus of the grammar sequence.

       Students will target areas of weakness through diagnostic tests and corresponding exercises that include editing practice.  The grammar tracker should be printed and inserted into the binder so that students may record their progress. These lessons will be the basis for feedback on writing drafts as well. The idea is that students will target specific skills to improve upon through instruction, followed by practical application in their writing.