• Why Study English On Location?
  English has forever been a fluid yet hybrid language, and the colliding and coalescing of both French and English languages and cultures not only provided new words, but new ideas and ways of perceiving the world. Imagine exploring the playgrounds of literary giants beginning in Paris and moving north all the way to Edinburgh. The rich cultures of Paris and London are the ideal cities in which to consider the influence of art and literature on Western culture. Dynamic learning experiences, such as attending a Shakespearean play at the Globe Theatre, will bring the coursework alive. Moving up through the Lake District and into Scotland we will also have the opportunity to venture into one of Europe's most attractive and lively cities - Edinburgh. Examining contemporary Scottish writers will give students the opportunity to study the transformation of provincial England into the diverse chorus of voices that are its modern reality.

Courses

Courses offered for grade 12 students

• English, Grade 12

  The core English course will focus on the refinement of literacy, communication and analytical skills. Students will build on their understanding of academic language and practice using it coherently and confidently in discussion and argument in both oral and written forms. Literary forms examined will include plays, poems, short stories, essays and the novel, while themes studied will coordinate with the locations in which we reside.

• Studies in Literature, Grade 12

  This course is intended for students who are passionate about literature and literary criticism. Students will analyse a range of literary forms, including drama, the novel, and poetry and will respond personally, critically and creatively to each.

• Writer's Craft, Grade 12

  This course is designed for students who have attained a high level of proficiency in their writing skills and wish to further cultivate their creative talents while living in the land of literary legends.

Courses offered for grade 11 students

• English, Grade 11

  The core English course will give students the opportunity to hone their writing, presentation, oral, analytical and critical thinking skills in an exciting and motivating venue. Partaking in assignments and activities that incorporate both oral and written communication, students will examine plays, poetry, short stories and the novel to make meaningful connections between themselves, the material studied, and the world around them.

Itinerary

• Important Dates
  
  • Course Begins: June 28, 2012
  • Departure Date: July 3, 2012
  • Return Date: July 28, 2012

• Online: Begins June 29, 2012 (Day 1-4)
  Student preparation and a strong knowledge-base are vital for an enriched educational experience. To ensure students get the most from their on-site learning, each MEI program begins with a preparatory online component. For 5 days students will get started on course material in the comfort of their own home. Through this process of readings, short assignments, and online chats, students will get a better understanding of the course material and make connections with classmates. This allows students to hit the ground running as soon as they arrive overseas and dive straight into the adventure that awaits them.
• Departure from Toronto - July 5, 2012 (Day 5)
  Our North American departure hub is Toronto's Pearson International Airport. Five hours prior to our departure, a short meeting will be held at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, Terminal 3, to distribute course packs and maps and to clarify travel procedures. All students are responsible for making their own travel arrangements to the Sheraton Gateway Hotel. Students making alternate arrangements must contact MEI before March 31, 2011.
• Paris (Day 6-14)
  England and France, whether by treaty or by war, have always been involved in a vital and intimate relationship of cultural exchange. English has long been a fluid, hybridic language, but the Norman invasion of 1066 marks a vital moment in the development of English discourse. The introduction of French language and culture to England provided not only new words, but new ideas and new ways of looking at the world. In Paris, we will consider the influence of art, literature, and philosophy on England in particular and on Western culture more generally. We will discuss philosophy at the salons of Hemingway and Sartre, and learn to analyse and interpret art in front of the world's most famous paintings, all while soaking in the food, shopping, sights, and sounds of the Western world's cultural epicentre: Paris.
• London (Day 14-19)
  As we journey to London, we will come to see not only how Shakespeare modernized the English language, but how that language and worldview was solidified, exported, and policed in the creation of an Empire. Our study of Shakespeare will make the work come alive as we take in performances at the historic Globe Theatre. We will then encounter and participate in the heated exchange of ideas at the original Speaker's Corner, explore the great parks, squares, and sights of the city, and further develop the critical thinking skills needed to both understand and appreciate the development of modern English culture and our own place within it.
• Lake District (Day 19-23)
  Inspired by the vistas of Grasmere's rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and hidden trails, we will retrace the steps of the Romantics and the development of English language and literature, as we attempt to recapture their spirit of self-reflection through the study of poetry. We will examine the poetic movements and ideals that finally culminated in the "heap of broken images" of the modernism of T.S. Eliot, Yeats, and others. Amidst rippling ponds, rock fences, wandering sheep and greenery as far as the eye can see, we will delve more deeply not only into the poetry of an England at the height of its Empire, but into our own passions and struggles.
• Edinburgh (Day 23-30)
  The final stage of our journey will provide us with the opportunity to see one of Europe's most attractive and lively cities. Edinburgh is the historical and cultural capital of Scotland, where students will consider both the legacy and impact of British imperialism, while also examining how their triumphs and difficulties have reshaped a new cosmopolitan United Kingdom. The works of contemporary Scottish writers such as Irvine Welsh and Jackie Kay will give students the opportunity to study the transformation of provincial England into the diverse chorus of voices that is its modern reality. From the great shopping in Edinburgh's modern neighbourhoods to the medieval charm of the old city and Edinburgh Castle, we will bear witness to the clash of classic and modern. Students will have the opportunity to preview the works of the world-famous Fringe Festival before completing their Independent Study Units and writing final exams.
• Departure from Edinburgh Airport - July 30, 2012 (Day 30)

• ENGLISH THROUGH THE AGES
  
• In PARIS, we will reside on the left bank of the Seine in the heart of the buzzing Latin Quarter. Known for its lively atmosphere and quaint bistros, the Latin Quarter is both an ideal hub to explore the sprawling arrondissements of Paris, as well as the perfect location to find and sample all that Parisian cuisine has to offer. From street crepes and fresh croissants to classic picnics shopped for in the local market and shared in nearby Luxembourg Gardens, students will have the opportunity to try some of the most delicious French food in all of Paris.
• In LONDON, students will reside a stone's throw from St. James Park, the oldest of the royal parks in the city. Bounded by Buckingham Palace to the west, St. James Park is an ideal location to hold lectures, afternoon picnics and act as a central jumping off point to the rest of the city. Contrary to popular belief, there is more than fried fish and chips available on the streets of London. From Indian dosas to handmade Italian pastas, students will expand their culinary horizons with some of the best international cuisine.
• Traveling north, students will stay in the heart of the Lake District in the moors of GRASMERE. The charming village was once home to William Wordsworth, who referred to it as 'the loveliest spot that man hath ever found'. Between hikes through the surrounding hills, spotted by sheep and wildflowers, students will enjoy rustic comfort cuisine sourced from local ingredients in the village's taverns.
• Traveling north still, students will arrive in Scotland's lively capital of EDINBURGH. While exploring the charmed old town, perhaps students will be lucky enough to catch a clan parade in traditional tartans up the Royal Mile towards Edinburgh Castle, or if they dare, try a traditional bite of Scottish haggis!

MEI Gear

• Clothing and Accessories
  At MEI, we not only provide our students with the best possible education, staff and travel experience - we also provide them with the best in fashion and accessories! After years of experience, we understand that having the proper clothing is an important aspect of travelling. With that in mind, we have designed a number of clothing articles for all types of climates and activities so the student can be prepared for any situation. From hoodies and tees to windbreakers and flip-flops, MEI gear allows you to travel in comfort and in style! MEI gear includes other items as well, like our high-quality water bottles. Each student is also issued a beautifully bound journal for their travel writing and cultural observations.
• Health and Fitness
  Healthy living, exercise and active learning is a big part of the MEI lifestyle. Each morning students are encouraged to start their day off on the right foot by doing some exercises or exploring the city with a supervised jog. With our MEI workout gear, keeping in shape will be easy and comfortable. Healthy bodies equal healthy minds, and students who are in the best physical condition are sure to stave off fatigue and make the most of their experience abroad.
• MEI Gear Store Coming Soon
  Look here for ways to order exclusive MEI gear soon!

• Transportation
  
  • Return airfare from Toronto's Pearson International Airport
  • Transportation between hotel locations via private coach
  • Transportation for all listed program excursions
  • Transfers to all accommodations
• Trip Related
  
  • Hotels and accommodations
  • Breakfast and dinner daily
  • Entrance fees to all course-specific sites
• Course Components
  
  • Ministry-approved credit(s) upon successful completion of the course(s)
  • Custom course pack
  • Student Login
  • MEI journal
  • Digital yearbook
  • Fall reunion