English Course Sequence

Grade 9

• Writing a variety of essays, keeping a complete notebook and maintaining a writing journal
• Reading novels, short stories, plays and poetry
• Mastering word study skills involving spelling, work analysis, and basic parts of speech

Grade 10

• Reading works by noted novelists, playwrights, and poets
• Writing persuasive, personal, creative essays
• Studying grammar and mechanics in context

Grade 11

• Writing a documented research paper
• Studying American writers
• Reading and responding to prose, poetry, plays and non-fiction
• Preparing for the New York State Regents Examination

Journalism

Grades 11 and 12

• Writing in four major styles: news, features, opinions, and sports
• Learning techniques and styles for layout and design of a newspaper
• Studying the history of journalism in America and current issues in journalism
• Completing journal work and writing assignments: a one-act play, poetry, short stories, children's literature, and creative non-fiction

Applied Communication

Grade 12

• Keeping a journal which includes reactions to work-related articles
• Reading and responding to novels, short stories, and poetry
• Writing a research paper on travel
• Writing a resume, letters of application, cover letters, and acknowledgements

Advanced Placement

Grade 12

This course may lead to college credit. At the end of the course, students take the Advanced Placement Literature and Composition Exam.

• Studying important works by master writers
• Composing literary analysis papers
• Studying the works of critics on each author
• Studying advanced literary techniques and writing strategies.