English

English 9R Full year 1 credit This course provides a sampling of short stories, poems, plays, and full-length novels of representative authors of the Western World, including To Kill a Mockingbird, Of Mice and Men, Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, among others. Select works are studied to create an awareness of Western ideas and values and to develop an understanding of the historical context of those values. The writing component is literature-driven, and aims to nurture critical thinking skills, expository techniques, and a distinctive student voice.

English 10R Full year l credit This course allows students to examine a wide variety of short stories, poetic forms and models, plays, full-length novels, non-fiction and informational texts; in addition, vocabulary acquisition and the thorough review of English grammar, usage, and mechanics continue to receive strong emphasis throughout. Extensive reading from a variety of genres is intrinsic to this course, as is the development of research skills. Literary selections have been chosen as a basis for the continuity of instruction and interdisciplinary understanding, and include a Shakespearean play and Elie Weisel’s memoir Night, among others. The composition program stresses both the analytical and personal response to literature along with primary modes of rhetorical discourse outlined in the NYSED Framework for the English Language Arts. Students will begin to prepare for the NYS Common Core English Regents and the PSAT/SAT exams.

English 11R Full year l credit Representative American authors are studied with an emphasis on understanding their ideas and values, and also with a view towards helping students gain an awareness of historical context. The composition program continues to stress both the analytical and personal response to literature and informational text along with primary modes of rhetorical discourse outlined in the NYSED Framework for the English Language Arts. Since all students will take the New York State Common Core English Regents Examination, intense preparation is offered in realizing the New York State English Language Arts learning standards. Vocabulary acquisition and inquiry-based research skill utilization are stressed throughout the year. Preparation for PSAT/SAT exams is included in the curriculum; in addition, college-style writing and analysis is introduced and developed.

English 12R Full year 1 credit This course presents a global approach to literature based on poetry, short stories, drama, novels, fables, myths and legends from around the world. Students will encounter some of the world’s greatest authors and will be challenged by the relevance of their works and the values inherent in them. Students develop a strong literary background and greater experience with literary discourse, which is utilized in the development of their writing skills. In addition, the course includes a mandatory Senior Project research paper and a variety of portfolio writing assignments. Numerous essays and short readings will be included in the curriculum to model writing techniques. College applications, college essay writing and SAT preparation are also features of this course.