Skip To Main Content

English Department


We offer a variety of English courses that challenge and support our students. Courses help students meet N.Y. State and local requirements and prepare students for study beyond high school. Grades that are indicated in the course descriptions are to be used as guides. Grades do not impede a student from taking a course. Please speak with your school counselor about the appropriate course for your academic success.

ENGLISH 1: Full year - 1 credit, Grade 9
English 1 launches students into the high school English experience through an inquiry-based approach that encourages curiosity, reflection, and connection. Grounded in the NYS Next Generation Learning Standards, students explore multiple genres of literature and informational text to deepen their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. Through narrative, persuasive, and analytical writing, students learn to express ideas clearly, support arguments with evidence, and develop their own voice. A research project introduces students to academic inquiry and source evaluation. Speaking, listening, and collaboration are emphasized as students engage in discussions, presentations, and creative projects. Students in English 1 Regents may choose to compile a portfolio of their best work to be considered for Honors credit. Both Regents and Honors levels are available. Prerequisite: Grade 8 ELA.


ENGLISH 1 R180: Full year - 0 credit, Grade 9                                                                                                                    English 1 R180, taken in addition to English 1, is a year-long course designed for students who are still progressing toward the NYS standards in reading. Read 180 uses a whole group/small group model, along with adaptive technology, to provide students with targeted reading comprehension instruction and support to help students success in English 1 and other subject area courses. Students are recommended for this course by teacher recommendation and Grade 8 performance. Administrative approval is required. Prerequisite: Grade 8 ELA

ENGLISH 2: Full year - 1 credit, Grade 10
English 2 builds on the foundations established in English 1, inviting students to think critically and communicate effectively through reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students explore a wide range of literary and informational texts from diverse voices and cultures, analyzing themes of identity, justice, and resilience. Writing tasks include narrative, analytical, and research-based pieces that emphasize organization, clarity, and the integration of evidence. Students continue to refine grammar and language conventions and strengthen their skills as collaborators and presenters. Both Regents and Honors levels are available. Prerequisite: English 1


ENGLISH 2 READING WRITING ACHIEVE: Half year - ½ credit, Grade 10                                                                       This course is designed for 10th grade students in need of additional reading, writing, and study skills instruction in order to meet the NYS Standards in English and other subject area courses. This course is also designed for 11th grade students who have failed the English Regents and would benefit from additional instruction and practice to pass the exam. This course must be taken in addition to the regular English class. Teacher recommendation required. This ½ credit applies toward English elective credit and not toward N.Y. State English graduation requirements. Prerequisite: English 1


ENGLISH 3 Full year - 1 credit, Grade 11                                                                                                                              English 3 prepares students for college, career, and civic life by emphasizing advanced reading, writing, and research skills. Students analyze literature and nonfiction that reflect a variety of voices and perspectives, examining how writers use structure, rhetoric, and style to convey meaning. Major writing assignments include literary analysis, argument writing, and a sustained research project requiring students to pose questions, synthesize evidence, and communicate findings effectively. Collaboration and oral communication remain central, as students participate in Socratic seminars, peer workshops, and multimedia presentations. Both Regents and Honors levels are available. Prerequisite: English 2


ENGLISH 3 READING WRITING ACHIEVE: Half year - ½ credit, Grade 11                                                                        This course is designed for 11th grade students in need of additional reading, writing, and study skills instruction in order to meet the N.Y. State standards in English and other subject area courses. This course provides additional instruction and practice to pass the N.Y. State English Regents Exam. This course must be taken in addition to the regular English class. Teacher recommendation required. This ½ credit applies toward English elective credit and not toward N.Y. State English graduation requirements. Prerequisite: English 2


AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION: Full year - 1 credit, Grades 11, 12                                                                 AP English Language & Composition challenges students to read critically, think analytically, and write with purpose and precision. Through the study of advanced nonfiction texts spanning different eras, cultures, and disciplines, students learn to analyze rhetorical choices and craft arguments that are informed, clear, and persuasive. In addition to sustained work with rhetorical and philosophical essays from the 1600s to the modern day, students read multiple advanced-level literary texts, which may include The Scarlet Letter, Frankenstein, 1984, The Crucible, and The Great Gatsby. These texts are used as lenses through which students examine argument, purpose, audience, and historical context. Students write in multiple modes—rhetorical analysis, synthesis, and argumentation—and develop a strong command of academic style, voice, and evidence-based reasoning. All formal essay assessments are written in class without access to assistive technology, reflecting the expectations of the AP examination. This course fosters the Portrait of a Graduate competencies of critical thinking, communication, and civic awareness, preparing students for college-level reading, writing, and engaged participation in academic and civic life. Students are expected to take the AP Exam and the NYS English Regents Exam. Prerequisite: English 2 or English 2 Honors.


ENGLISH 4: Full year - 1 credit, Grade 12                                                                                                                            English 4 serves as a capstone experience that prepares students for the academic and communication demands of college and life beyond high school. Rooted in the NYS Next Generation ELA Standards, the course emphasizes inquiry, analysis, and synthesis through reading and writing across multiple genres. Students will engage in advanced writing experiences—including reflective, analytical, and research-based projects—and explore how language shapes culture and identity. Through collaboration, discussion, and presentation, students demonstrate the Portrait of a Graduate qualities of clear communication, problem-solving, and global awareness. Prerequisite: English 3 and a 65 or higher on the English Regents Exam.


AP ENGLISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION: Full year - 1 credit, Grade 12
This college-level course invites students to explore difficult literature as art and argument, analyzing how writers craft meaning through language, form, and structure. Students study works from a range of periods, cultures, and genres, deepening their understanding of literary traditions and human experience. Writing assignments emphasize analysis, interpretation, and synthesis of textual evidence. Students refine their voice as writers and their ability to discuss and defend ideas through critical dialogue. Students are expected to take the AP Exam in English Literature & Composition. Prerequisite: English 3, English 3 Honors, or AP Language & Composition.


ENGLISH 4 ECE Full year - 1 credit, Grade 12
In partnership with Westchester Community College, this dual-enrollment course (WCC English 101 & 102) provides students with the opportunity to earn college credit while completing advanced work in reading, writing, and research. Students analyze literature and nonfiction, compose essays using multiple rhetorical modes, and learn to synthesize evidence effectively. Emphasis is placed on academic inquiry, revision, oral presentation, and responsible research practices. Successful completion fosters readiness for college-level work and the Portrait of a Graduate attributes of independent learning, effective communication, and ethical citizenship. Students must pass the placement test or earn an 85 or higher on the English Regents Exam to qualify. WCC tuition fee applies. Prerequisite: English 3.


SUPA: ENGLISH WRITING AND TEXTUAL STUDIES Full year — 1 credit, Grade 12                                                      This advanced dual-enrollment course through Syracuse University combines WRT 105: Practices of Academic Writing and ENG: Textual Studies. Students earn up to six college credits while refining their skills in analysis, research, and academic writing. The fall semester focuses on rhetorical writing and argumentation; the spring centers on close reading, literary analysis, and critical inquiry. Students build mastery in the Portrait of a Graduate competencies of communication, critical thinking, and independent learning. Prerequisite: English 3 (B or higher), English 3H, or AP English (C or higher). SU fee applies.


SUPA: PRESENTATIONAL SPEAKING Half year— ½ HS credit + 3 Syracuse University credits, Grade 12      Do you want to become a confident, engaging, and effective speaker? SUPA Presentational Speaking gives students the opportunity to develop professional-level communication skills while earning college credit through Syracuse University. In this course, students learn how to craft, organize, and deliver dynamic presentations for a variety of audiences and purposes—from informative speeches to persuasive talks and professional briefings. Emphasis is placed on developing clear message design, confident delivery, visual support, and audience awareness. Students gain experience through multiple in-class presentations, peer feedback, and personal reflection. This course is ideal for students interested in leadership, business, media, or any field where strong communication skills are essential. Prerequisites: Strong writing and speaking skills are recommended.

ENGLISH ELECTIVE COURSES


Seniors must take two electives unless they enroll in a full year senior English course. Juniors may take these elective courses in addition to English 3.


AVID 9: Full year-1 credit, Grade 9
AVID 10: Full year-1 credit, Grade 10
AVID 11: Full year-1 credit, Grade 11
AVID 12: Half year – ½ credit, Grade 12
The AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program empowers students to take ownership of their learning, develop strong academic habits, and prepare for college and career success. Students learn organizational and study strategies, strengthen reading and writing skills, and build collaboration and inquiry through tutorials and team-based problem-solving. AVID emphasizes the Portrait of a Graduate attributes of self-direction, communication, critical thinking, and perseverance. Students also engage with college tutors, explore postsecondary options, and participate in enrichment activities. Enrollment by application and administrative approval. Credit counts as an elective toward graduation, not English credit.


JOURNALISM 1 Half year - ½ credit, Grades 9-12                                                                                                                 In today’s media-driven world, information spreads instantly—and understanding how it’s created is more important than ever. This course introduces students to journalism as both a craft and a civic responsibility. Through research, writing, and reporting, students learn the fundamentals of news gathering, interviewing, and storytelling across print, online, and audio-visual platforms. Students will produce original stories, conduct on-camera interviews, explore podcasting, and use social media responsibly to enhance reporting. The course cultivates communication, media literacy, and ethical judgment—skills essential for school, college, and beyond. Many students continue on to staff positions at The Orange, the school newspaper.


JOURNALISM 2: DIGITAL MEDIA & BROADCAST JOURNALISM Half year - ½ credit, Grades 9-12                         Take your storytelling to the next level through the lens of digital and broadcast journalism. Building on skills from Journalism 1, this course explores multimedia news production, including video, podcasting, and digital publication. Students will research and produce long-form features, conduct in-depth interviews, and apply professional editing and production techniques. Topics include ethical reporting, media bias, audience engagement, and how to build trust and credibility in an online world. Students collaborate to create digital news segments, podcasts, and multimedia stories for school and community audiences. This course promotes the Portrait of a Graduate qualities of innovation, collaboration, and responsible digital citizenship. Prerequisite: Journalism 1.


CREATIVE WRITING 1 Half year - ½ credit, Grades 9-12                                                                                                Creative Writing 1 invites students to experiment with voice, style, and form as they craft original works of fiction, poetry, drama, and creative nonfiction. Through workshops and peer feedback, students learn to refine language, develop imagery, and build narrative structure. Students will read model texts from diverse authors and explore the creative process from idea to publication. The course culminates in opportunities to share and publish work, including contributions to The Roar, the school’s award-winning literary magazine.


CREATIVE WRITING 2 Half year - ½ credit, Grades 9-12                                                                                                     This continuation of Creative Writing 1 focuses on writing for performance and publication. Students explore dramatic writing—monologues, scenes, and one-act plays—while deepening their understanding of dialogue, pacing, and structure. Through collaboration and revision, students develop confidence as writers, editors, and performers, demonstrating creativity, communication, and cultural awareness. Prerequisite: Creative Writing 1.


LEGENDS & MYTHS Half year - ½ credit, Grades 10-12                                                                                                Journey through the world’s myths, legends, and archetypes to explore how stories shape cultures and identities. Students examine global creation stories, classical mythology, folklore, and modern retellings through literature and film. Through analytical and creative writing, students connect ancient themes—heroism, morality, transformation—to modern life and media. The course builds the Portrait of a Graduate competencies of cultural literacy, empathy, and critical thinking. Prerequisite: English 1.


LATINX LITERATURE Half year - ½ credit, Grades 10-12                                                                                                      This course celebrates the diverse voices of Latinx writers in the United States. Students explore themes of identity, belonging, and resilience through works by authors such as Julia Alvarez, Rudolfo Anaya, Junot Díaz, and Esmeralda Santiago. Discussions and writing assignments invite students to analyze how bilingualism, migration, and heritage shape voice and perspective. Students engage in close reading, personal reflection, and creative responses that honor the Portrait of a Graduate ideals of cultural understanding, communication, and civic awareness. Prerequisite: English 1.


AFRICAN-AMERICAN LITERATURE Half year - ½ credit, Grades 10– 12                                                                      Students explore African-American and Afro-Caribbean literature across history, from early slave narratives to contemporary poetry and social commentary. Authors studied may include Frederick Douglass, Zora Neale Hurston, James Baldwin, Toni Morrison, and Ta-Nehisi Coates. Students analyze how literature reflects and shapes social change, examining intersections of race, gender, and power. Through close reading, research, and discussion, students practice the Portrait of a Graduate skills of empathy, cultural awareness, and civic engagement. Prerequisite: English 1.


THE GRAPHIC NOVEL Half year - ½ credit, Grades 10– 12                                                                                                    Explore the power of visual storytelling through the study of the graphic novel. Students analyze how words and images work together to create meaning, emotion, and theme. Through reading and creating their own short comics, students practice visual literacy, narrative structure, and artistic expression while exploring issues of identity, justice, and representation in the medium. Prerequisite: English 1.


SCIENCE FICTION IN LITERATURE & FILM Half year - ½ credit, Grades 11, 12                                                            Travel through time, space, and possibility in this course that explores how science fiction imagines the future to comment on the present. Students study classic and contemporary works by authors such as Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury, and Octavia Butler, as well as films that challenge our ideas about technology, humanity, and ethics. Students develop critical and creative writing pieces that analyze or reimagine speculative worlds, demonstrating innovation, analysis, and ethical reasoning in this project-based elective. Prerequisite: English 2.


SPORTS WRITING & LITERATURE Half year – ½ credit, Grades 10– 12                                                                            This course combines the study of sports as literature with the craft of sports journalism. Students read novels, plays, and articles that explore competition, identity, and perseverance—then write their own game recaps, feature stories, and opinion pieces. Through close reading and authentic writing practice, students sharpen their analytical and journalistic skills while learning to capture the human stories behind athletic achievement. Prerequisite: English 1.


SUPA WRITING CULTURE: INTRODUCTION TO CREATIVE NONFICTION Half year - ½ credit, Grade 12            In collaboration with Syracuse University, this dual-enrollment course invites students to experiment with creative nonfiction—memoir, biography, travel writing, and literary journalism. Students read contemporary authors, explore the relationship between self and culture, and craft original works that blend research with personal reflection. Students completing the course may earn three college credits through Syracuse University. Prerequisite: English 3 Regents (B or higher), English 3 Honors, or AP English (C or higher). SU fee applies.