Seniors take the second AP course in English: AP Literature and Composition. The focus of the course is on reading a variety of literary works, the majority of which are standard classic literary selections, and on analyzing those works critically.

In a relaxed environment, students examine the novels and plays they read both in and out of the classroom, using Socratic methodology, debate, and individual interests. First semester is devoted to reviewing and establishing literary foundations and approaches to interpretation. Second semester deals with Shakespeare and both classic and contemporary poetry. All assessment, year-long, centers around writing. Also, throughout the year students practice in preparation for the AP Exam at the end of the course.

Each Horizon student will complete a 20-page academic paper and exhibition called the Senior Project. The purpose of these projects is to refine research skills by pursuing an academic topic of particular interest to each student. All will formally present their projects to an audience of teachers, peers, and family and community members. Topics are as diverse as the students themselves. For example, students have used computer software to design an acoustical model for the Richland Northeast gym, performed in the styles of famous dancers and musicians, analyzed the ethical issues of cloning, created one-person shows as historical figures, and explored mathematical models in nature.