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Home > Curriculum FAQs > Essentials in Literature (EIL)

What literature pieces are used at each level of EIL?

All EIL literature pieces can be found here:https://essentialsinwriting.com/homeschool-resource/literature/essentials-in-literature-asset-links/

Where can I find the literary works?

Here is an aggregated list of the literacy works links: https://essentialsinwriting.com/homeschool-resource/literature/essentials-in-literature-asset-links/

How do I count Essentials in Writing and Essentials in Literature for credits?

Essentials in Writing and Essentials in Literature together would be considered a high school English class. Most English classes in public/private education consist not only of composition, but also literary analysis; however, many states have different requirements for homeschooling. If the requirement is English I, II, III, and IV for each grade of high school, then your student would need to complete Essentials in Writing and Essentials in Literature for that level to earn 1 English credit....

Does EIL cover American, British, or World Literature?

The Essentials in Literature Textbooks are not anthologies. Each level includes a mixture of American, British, and World Literature. Categories of each work are indicated in the Teacher Handbooks (7-9) or Resource Books (10-11) of each level. They are also included in the “Literary Works” pdf for each level on our website. Students who work through Essentials in Literature Levels 9, 10, 11, and 12 (yet to be released) will be exposed to the equivalent of American, British, and World Literature...

Can some of the assignments be done through discussion rather than writing?

Yes, this is completely at the parents’ discretion. Parents may choose to have their children do some EIL assignments via discussion in order to help their children practice their speaking and listening skills. Additionally, this option may be helpful if a student has already done an extensive amount of writing in other homeschool subjects that day or for students who benefit from an accommodation to shorten or reduce written assignments.

Are there many writing assignments in Essentials in Literature?

Each short literary work contains one small writing assignment (one paragraph in size) in addition to answering comprehension and connection questions. Independent Practice activities contain two small writing assignments (one paragraph in size). Students may complete one or both writing assignments.

What levels of Essentials in Literature are available?

Essentials in Literature is available in Levels 7-12.