What’s Happening in December for Eleventh Grade?

11th Grade – December Curriculum Overview

 

December’s theme is Light. In 11th grade, we’ll focus on how knowledge, self-reflection, and action can serve as “light” in our lives and communities. We have three instructional weeks before Winter Break (December 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026). Students should always check Google Classroom for assignments, reading logs, and updates.

Week 18 (Dec 1–4): Illuminating Ideas – Research & Reflection

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read your chosen classic or contemporary literature, focusing on passages about discovery, hope, or personal growth.
    Reading Log: Read daily and record title, author, minutes, and a thoughtful reflection in your digital log. Logs are submitted in Google Classroom at the month’s end.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a short analytical response: “How does the main character act as a ‘light’ or catalyst for change?” Edit a previous essay for clarity, grammar, and structure.
  • Spelling (Academic Vocabulary):
    • Week 18 words: illuminate, catalyst, perspective, synthesis, thesis, evidence, analysis, articulate, clarity, nuance
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a complex sentence.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in context from your reading.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Apply algebraic reasoning to real-world “light” problems (angles of reflection, brightness, or rates of change).
• Science: Explore the physics of light—reflection, refraction, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Try a simple experiment (prism, lenses, color mixing).
• Social Studies/History: Investigate historical figures or movements that “brought light” to society (civil rights, scientific discovery, reformers).
• Music: Listen to and analyze a piece of music that uses “light” as a theme (e.g., Debussy’s “Clair de Lune,” or a song of your choice). Reflect on how music can express illumination or hope.
• Art: Create a visual artwork inspired by the concept of light—photography, painting, or drawing. Experiment with shadows, highlights, or color to show “illumination.”
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom (walk, run, yoga, dance, etc.).

Week 19 (Dec 8–11): Voices & Vision – Sharing the Light

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Read and annotate an essay, speech, or article about leadership or advocacy.
    Reading Log: Continue daily entries and reflections.
  • Writing/Grammar: Draft a persuasive essay: “How can individuals use their voice to create positive change?” Practice using parallel structure and advanced punctuation.
  • Spelling (Argument & Rhetoric):
    • Week 19 words: rhetoric, ethos, pathos, logos, assertion, counterclaim, refute, synthesize, perspective, audience
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a persuasive sentence or argument.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in context from your reading or research.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Analyze graphs or statistics related to social issues (e.g., access to education, literacy rates, or energy use).
• Science: Research renewable energy sources and their impact. Present findings in a short report or presentation.
• Social Studies/History: Study a reform movement or leader who used their “voice” for change. Discuss relevance today.
• Music: Find and share a song that advocates for change or carries a message of hope. Discuss how music can inspire action.
• Art: Create a visual or performance piece that conveys a message or advocates for a cause—poster, painting, or digital art.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Week 20 (Dec 15–18): Reflection & Resilience – Carrying Light Forward

• Language Arts
  • Reading: Finish your December book or major reading selection. Reflect on key themes and lessons.
    Reading Log: Complete and submit your December reading log in Google Classroom.
  • Writing/Grammar: Write a personal reflection: “How have I brought light to my own life or others this year?” Review grammar or writing skills as needed (student choice or teacher feedback).
  • Spelling (Review & Reflection):
    • Week 20 words: reflect, resilience, perseverance, insight, clarity, summary, synthesis, theme, evidence, revision
    • Weekly spelling routine (Mon–Thu):
      • Daily: Study flashcards or use StudyStack for practice.
      • Monday: Write definitions for each word.
      • Tuesday: Use each word in a reflective or analytical sentence.
      • Wednesday: Identify each word in your own writing or reading.
      • Thursday: Take the online spelling quiz or submit a written test in Google Classroom.
• Math: Semester review—practice key algebra, statistics, and problem-solving skills.
• Science: Review major science topics from the fall. Optional: create a mind map or concept chart.
• Social Studies/History: Reflect on what you’ve learned about leadership, change, and resilience.
• Music: Create a playlist or write a review of songs that helped you through the year. How did music support your resilience?
• Art: Create a “Year of Light” portfolio page, collage, or artwork that captures your growth and learning in 2025.
• PE: 30+ minutes of movement most days. Log activity in Google Classroom.

Fun Fridays (Dec 5, 12, 19)

• Dec 5 – Lanterns of Light: Create a lantern or light-inspired artwork. Discuss how symbolic “light” has appeared in literature or history.
• Dec 12 – Light of Kindness: Write a letter or create a digital post to encourage or thank someone who has been a positive influence.
• Dec 19 – Solstice Reflection: Take time for self-reflection or a family ritual. Share a hope or intention for the new year.

Optional Family Fun Day (Dec 26 – During Winter Break)

• Year-in-Light Reflection: As a family, discuss highlights and challenges from 2025, and how each person brought light to themselves or others.

Recommended Free Resources

• Khan Academy – Literature & Writing
• Purdue OWL – Writing & Grammar
• ReadWriteThink – High School ELA
• iCivics – Government & Social Studies

December in 11th grade is about finishing the semester strong and reflecting on how you can be a source of light for yourself and your community. Focus on what matters most, and use the break to recharge for the new year!