English

9th Grade ELA

In this freshmen level ELA course, students engage with various forms of literature, from novels to short stories to poems, and focus on group discussion as a means to understand and critically think about the deeper meanings of texts and their connections to everyday modern life. Students will write papers that allow them to express their own thoughts and ideas.

10th Grade ELA/AP Seminar

AP Seminar is a foundational course that aims to equip students with the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments. Using an inquiry framework of questioning, understanding. evaluating, synthesizing, and transforming, students practice reading and analyzing texts. The course topics and themes engage students in cross- curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world issues through the examination of divergent perspectives.

NOTE: This course terminates in an AP exam, which gives students the opportunity to earn college credit.

11th Grade ELA

In this junior level English course, students discuss what outside influences shape our morality, and what effects they have on shaping us as individuals. The class will explore these ideas through argumentative essays, seminars, and creative tasks. All assignments will contribute to your preparation for the ELA Regents exam.

NOTE: This course terminates in a Regents exam.

12th Grade ELA

In this senior level English course, students engage with various forms of literature, from novels to short stories to poems, and focus on group discussion as a means to understand and critically think about the deeper meanings of texts and their connections to everyday modern life. Students will write papers that allow them to express their own thoughts and ideas, including their College Essay.

Creative Writing

This course is designed for budding writers who are eager to explore the diverse realms of storytelling, poetry, and self-expression. Throughout this course, students will embark on a creative journey, discovering the art of crafting compelling narratives and evocative poems. Engaging writing prompts, literary analysis, and collaborative exercises will inspire students to experiment with various genres, styles, and forms of expression.

Debate

This elective course invites students to engage in the dynamic world of debate, where the power of words, logic, and evidence converge to shape compelling arguments. Throughout this course, students will delve into the fundamentals of argumentation, learning to construct and deconstruct persuasive cases. From understanding formal debate structures to honing effective public speaking techniques, students will develop the essential skills needed for articulate and well-reasoned discourse.

Fiction Writing

In this elective English course, students engage with various genres of fiction and poetry specifically to craft their own work. Each unit will develop writing skills related to the explored genre. The class will focus on developing complete writing pieces that will be developed and shared with students in collaborative partnerships. Students will work on revising and drafting their work into a publishable form, and complete a portfolio of their completed work at the end of the course.