CSArts requires students to take 4 years of English– that’s longer than any other academic class. But many students struggle to engage with their English materials.
Historically, English classes around the country have focused on the ‘classics.’ These are literary works, typically 60 years or older, that have historically been featured in English classes. In recent years, this has begun to change, as focus shifts towards works that students can relate to and find engaging. The most taught text in the country is Romeo and Juliet, and at CSArts, students are introduced to Shakespeare before the end of their freshman year. Nationally, each of the top 10 most taught books is more than 60 years old. But do students learn more from reading older materials?
At CSArts, many English classes feature modern texts; The Poet X, Persepolis, and The Handmaid’s Tale are a few student favorites from past years. The CSArts curriculum handbook doesn’t require teachers to feature certain authors, but many teachers work both contemporary authors and classical authors into their classes.
The CSArtisan spoke to English teacher Emma Thompson about how she chooses texts to include in her class.
“I teach the ERWC curriculum for the 12th grade, and that curriculum was developed by the Cal State system to prepare students for the CSUs. It’s a pretty structured curriculum, but I have options to pull from within the curriculum. The other class I currently teach is AP Lit. That curriculum is loosely dictated by the College Board, so I can bring in different works of literature. I try to give a lot of options.”
The ERWC class is a new addition to the CSArts curriculum, a college-prep class added in the fall 2026 semester. Another recent change is the removal of the Citrus English classes, which offered students a weighted alternative to AP English classes.
“It’s a very beneficial thing for our students because seniors in that class who get a C or better don’t have to do any remediation when they go to a Cal State. It ensures they’re ready for Cal State coursework,” Thompson said.
Student opinions on classic works are diverse, as are the perspectives of CSArts’ English instructors. On the topic, Thompson said, “I think there’s a place for them. I like to read more contemporary fiction, but I see value in (the classics), and that’s why I offer choice in letting people read what they find value in.”
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