ENGLISH 9
English 9 is a literature-based course in which students analyze various novels, plays, short stories, and poems. Works are explored through discussions and writing assignments. Oral expression is addressed in the form of speeches, debates, and oral presentations. Extensive reading and writing are required, as well as completing a research paper. Students will also read novels independently.
This course is required for graduation.
ENGLISH 10
(Prerequisite: English 9)
The goals of English 10 are to increase students’ skills in reading and writing, to prepare students for the eleventh grade ELA Common Core Regents, and to encourage an appreciation of literature and an interest in writing. Students read, interpret, and discuss various literary genres: plays, short stories, poetry, and novels. There is an emphasis on reading comprehension and also relating relevant themes to the students’ lives. Vocabulary and grammar are studied in the context of the literature read. Through writing journals, poems, essays, and a short story, writing fluency and writing skills are encouraged. A mandatory research paper teaches the students the process of constructing a research paper.
This course is required for graduation.
ENGLISH 11
(Prerequisite: English 10)
Survey course in American Literature from early American writers to the present day. Analysis of this literature and its themes through a variety of methods -–cooperative learning, research on literary criticism and classroom discussions. Also, there will be an emphasis on writing in this class, both on the literature we read and for the English Language Arts Exam given during the junior year. A research paper is REQUIRED for this class.
This course culminates in a Regents Exam that is a graduation requirement.
ENGLISH 12
(Prerequisite: English 11)
This course is designed as an introduction to literary genres leading to a greater appreciation of fiction, poetry, and drama, as well as an acquisition for writing skills for all students. This course is designed as an intensive writing course that covers the following stages of writing: preliminary thought and discussion, research, organization, writing, revising, and editing. A special unit including the world of work will be included where college essays, resumes, emails, and business letters will be covered.
This course is eligible for two separate College Now credits.
PUBLIC SPEAKING
(½ credit)
This course is designed to develop the student’s skill in oral rhetoric. Emphasis is on research, organization and presentation of speeches that inform and persuade. Delivery, style, and audience analysis are stressed. Extemporaneous speeches are evaluated by the group.
This course is for students in grades 10 – 12. This course is eligible for College Now credit.
SENIOR SEMINAR (aka ADULTING)
(½ credit)
Living as an independent adult is not as easy as it looks, but this course will help students learn how to navigate the journey. Prepare for the day-to-day functions of adulthood, learning from adults who have real life experiences and expertise. Students will develop critical thinking and communication skills while exploring life’s milestones of budget and finance, employment and career success, home ownership, wellness, insurance, health care, auto repair, etc.
CREATIVE WRITING
(½ credit)
Creative Writing is designed to encourage students to write in various forms, with increased diversity and creativity. Some of the writing that students will complete includes journals, short stories, poems, and songs. Students will compile portfolios and will edit and revise their own and other’s work. Grades will be based on these finished portfolios, as well as students’ participation and effort in class.