English

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisites: final average of 90% in English 8 or 80% in English 8 Honors and teacher recommendation
• English 9 Honors is an enriched course for students reading and writing above the typical 9th-grade level. It develops Effective Communicators through frequent, advanced writing assignments and practice with Regents Exam–style tasks. Students sharpen skills in clear, analytical, and well-supported writing, as well as expressing ideas in discussions.
  
  By studying classic and contemporary texts from diverse genres and perspectives, students grow as culturally responsive thinkers, learning to understand different viewpoints, cultural contexts, and complex human experiences.
  
  Students participate as inclusive collaborators in group discussions, peer reviews, and projects, fostering active listening, respectful dialogue, and sharing varied interpretations.
  
  Vocabulary development is supported through assigned lists, an interactive online program, and course literature, strengthening language skills.
  
  Short research tasks and multi-step projects build innovative problem solving skills, teaching students to find reliable sources, synthesize information, and present clear, purposeful findings.
  
  Throughout reading, writing, and research, students are guided to be responsible and ethical decision-makers by evaluating sources carefully, citing evidence properly, and engaging ethically with digital and print materials.
  
  Emphasis is placed on close reading, critical thinking, and rich discussion, preparing students for advanced ELA coursework. (This course is NCAA Approved.)

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisite: English 8
• Students explore literature by identifying and using literary elements, building on prior reading skills. Through close reading of novels, short stories, poetry, drama, and nonfiction, they engage with diverse voices and perspectives as culturally responsive thinkers. Analyzing texts and participating in discussions helps students become effective communicators, clearly expressing ideas and supporting them with evidence. Writing instruction focuses on paragraph structure, clarity, and mastering ELA Regents Exam–style essays to strengthen written communication.
  
  Regular vocabulary study through lists, online tools, and literary contexts supports students by expanding their language skills and academic readiness. Collaborative activities like group discussions and peer review promote inclusive collaboration, encouraging respectful listening and multiple viewpoints. Research practice teaches students to evaluate sources, gather information, and present findings ethically, fostering responsible and ethical decision-making.
  
  By examining literary elements and responding to complex texts, students develop Innovative problem solving skills, using critical thinking to interpret meaning and form insights. Listening skills for comprehension and communication are emphasized throughout the course.
  
   (This course is NCAA Approved.)

• .5 Credit
• Prerequisites: Algebra I and English 9
• This course is designed for Junior and Senior students. The first half of the course will focus on the mathematics portion of the SAT, while the second portion will focus on the English portion of the SAT. Curriculum for the math portion will include different facets of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, logic, and it will aim to improve proficiencies in all test topics. The second portion will prepare students for both the Critical Reading and the Writing sections of the test. Curriculum will include reading comprehension, sentence completion, critical writing, grammar and essay writing. In both sections, students will take a diagnostic test to determine their strengths and weaknesses, study individual chapters covering practice problems and work cooperatively to solve them, take practice tests, and score results.

^{This course will be offered pass/fail and will not be counted towards GPA or Class Rank.}

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisites: final average of 90% or above in English 9R - or - 80% or above in English 9H, and teacher recommendation
• English 10 Honors is designed for students with a strong foundation in language structure, literary analysis, and oral communication. This rigorous course provides an overview of British and World Literature, featuring in-depth study of selected authors and texts. Students will engage in regular and intensive vocabulary development through assigned lists, interactive online tools, and the literature studied.  Coursework emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving as students analyze novels, plays, and poetry, producing both critical essays and creative writing pieces. A research paper and several shorter analytical assignments will develop information literacy and adaptability, preparing students for advanced academic work. Students will also practice and imitate literary styles and forms, including dramatic performance, fostering collaboration and communication skills.  Throughout the year, students will complete ELA Regents Exam-style essays to strengthen academic resilience and self-direction. The course promotes cultural awareness and global perspective through exploration of diverse voices and traditions in literature. Upon successful completion, students will be eligible for advanced English electives and other departmental offerings. Students will take the ELA Regents Examination in June. (This course is NCAA Approved.)

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisite: English 9R
• The English 10 course strengthens essential skills in grammar, reading, vocabulary, and writing while developing students as thoughtful readers, clear communicators, and skilled writers. Through diverse literature and writing genres, students learn to craft organized, purposeful, and audience-aware work. The curriculum emphasizes clarity, precision, and variety, while fostering analytical and creative thinking.
  
  Students practice supporting ideas with evidence, composing research-based writing, and engaging in discussion, debate, and public speaking. Reflecting on their progress, they build habits that support ongoing academic and personal growth.
  
  Successful completion of the course prepares students for the ELA Regents Examination and is NCAA approved, supporting readiness for postsecondary opportunities.

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisites: must pass the ELA Regents exam. Final average of 90% or above in English 10R or 80% or above in English 10H, and teacher recommendation
• English 11 Honors supports students in becoming thoughtful, informed, and empowered learners as outlined in the New York State Portrait of a Graduate. Through an in-depth study of American literature—including novels, plays, short stories, essays, and poetry—students engage in close, critical reading that strengthens their ability to analyze complex ideas, consider multiple perspectives, and make evidence-based interpretations.
  
  Class discussions emphasize collaboration, respectful dialogue, and the development of insight as students problem-solve and construct meaning together. Vocabulary growth is cultivated through structured study, digital tools, and exposure to rich literary texts, helping students communicate with clarity and precision.
  
  Writing in this course focuses on crafting sophisticated, purposeful compositions that demonstrate strong reasoning, effective use of evidence, and stylistic control. Students will regularly produce analytical, argumentative, and creative work that fosters their development as effective communicators and innovative thinkers. A major research project invites students to investigate meaningful questions, evaluate credible sources, and contribute original ideas—key skills for college, career, and civic readiness.
  
  Success in English 11 Honors requires commitment to deep exploration, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine appreciation for reading and writing.
   

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisite: English 10R
• This course equips students for academic, professional, and civic success through intensive study of writing, vocabulary, and American literature. Students build critical thinking by analyzing, evaluating, and defending ideas in expository and research-based writing. Communication skills grow through mature written expression, Regents-style essays, and regular public speaking, fostering clarity, precision, and confidence. Creativity is encouraged through varied writing assignments and engagement with diverse literary styles and themes, while civic awareness develops from exploring literature in historical and cultural contexts. Students will take the ELA Regents Examination in June. 
  (This course is NCAA Approved.)
   

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisites: must pass English 10H, English 11H with an 80% or above, and teacher recommendation
• The Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition course is a full-year course for students who have consistently demonstrated exceptional ability in English. The course emphasizes critical thinking and analytical writing through the close reading of imaginative literature, including novels, plays, short stories, and poetry from diverse periods and cultures. Students will engage in collaborative discussions, reflective practices, and creative problem-solving as they interpret complex texts and explore universal themes. In alignment with the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, the course cultivates skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, cultural and social awareness, creativity, and global citizenship, while preparing students for academic success beyond high school. The course culminates in the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, which may earn college credit for qualifying scores (typically 3, 4, or 5). There is a fee for the AP exam. (This course is NCAA Approved.)

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisites: Pass English 10H, or English 11H with an 80% or above, and teacher recommendation
• The Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition course is designed to empower students as effective communicators, creative innovators, and critical thinkers. Through the study of diverse prose and rhetorical contexts, students learn to analyze and craft writing that is purposeful, audience-aware, and adaptable to a range of academic and real-world situations. The curriculum encourages learners to reflect on the interplay between a writer’s intent, audience expectations, and subject matter, fostering a deeper understanding of how language and genre conventions shape meaning and impact.
  
  By engaging with complex texts and composing original work, students develop the skills necessary to participate thoughtfully in a global community, considering multiple perspectives and cultural contexts. The course challenges students to think critically about issues, communicate ideas with clarity and creativity, and approach problems with a future-focused mindset. As reflective scholars, they are encouraged to evaluate their own growth and set goals for continued academic and personal development.
  
  Successful completion of the course prepares students for the AP English Language and Composition Examination, which may lead to college credit at many institutions for scores of 3, 4, or 5. The exam requires a fee, and the course is NCAA approved, supporting students’ academic readiness for postsecondary opportunities.
   

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisite: English 11R
• This college-preparatory course is designed for college-bound students and includes four areas of study: Prose Analysis; Poetry and Literary Terminology; Public Speaking; and the Examination of Classical and Contemporary Works. Students develop strong critical thinking, reading, and writing skills through close analysis of literary texts across genres and time periods.
  
  Poetry study emphasizes the analysis and appreciation of short and full-length works, focusing on literary terminology and modes of written discourse. Students apply their understanding through written interpretation and the creation of original poetry, fostering creativity and self-expression.
  
  Instruction in public speaking equips students with essential communication skills, including organization, audience awareness, and confident delivery. Students participate in presentations throughout the school year, strengthening their ability to articulate ideas clearly and effectively.
  
  The study of classical and contemporary literature ranges from works by Plato to J.D. Salinger, encouraging students to explore enduring themes, diverse perspectives, and real-world connections. Collaborative discussions, performance-based activities promote collaboration, cultural awareness, and civic responsibility.
  
  Through rigorous reading, writing, speaking, and creative expression, students grow as independent learners, effective communicators, critical thinkers, and responsible contributors, reflecting the school’s Portrait of a Graduate.

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisites: must pass English 11R or 11H; students must also enroll in Government Senior Project in their Spring Semester
• Explore your passion; discover yourself! That's the slogan for this senior English program, Senior Project. A nationally recognized program, Senior Project is a rigorous course that consists of four components: a project based upon a student-generated idea, a 2100–2700 word collegiate-level research paper, a portfolio that visually chronicles the experience, and the Senior Boards, an elaborate presentation to a panel of judges.
  
  This course, which includes the curriculum of English 12, is designed for the industrious student who wishes to work extensively and independently on a project of his or her choosing. Throughout the Senior Project experience, students engage deeply with the Portrait of a Graduate attributes—working as collaborators and communicators, expanding their capacity as creators and innovators, acting as ethical and global citizens, demonstrating perseverance as resilient individuals, applying critical-thinking skills as problem solvers, and ultimately growing as life-long learners prepared for future academic and professional challenges.

• 1 Credit (Elective Credit)
• Prerequisite: English 9 and 80% or above final average in English.

• This course introduces students to the fundamentals of journalism, media literacy, and the role of a free press in society.  Students will research, write, edit, and publish news stories and features across multiple formats, including print and digital media. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, fairness, and ethical reporting, while encouraging creativity and critical thinking. The course concludes with an introduction to InDesign magazine publishing software and a final research project to analyze landmark U.S. Supreme Court cases centering on students’ rights as they relate to the First Amendment. 

• JOURNALISM II – Writing (2151) = 1 Credit (Elective Course)
  JOURNALISM II – Editing (2152) = 1 Credit (Elective Course)
• Prerequisite: 80% or better in Journalism I or teacher approval
• These advanced courses expand on the fundamentals of Journalism I and focus on editorial leadership and networking. Students will refine their researching, writing, editing, and InDesign software skills and manage all aspects of magazine creation from production schedule development to publication. Students will complete a capstone project which includes a self reflection, an exploration of a deep dive societal issue, and a portfolio of their written and digital products completed over the course of their two or three years in the program. 

• 1 Credit (Elective Credit)
• Prerequisite: English 10
• Communications 1 is a hands-on digital media production course open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors that emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and effective communication. Students develop foundational skills in video and audio production, digital editing, media management, and equipment operation while learning to plan, produce, and refine original media content. Through the exploration and creation of news, informational, and entertainment media, students learn to research topics, consider viewer perspectives, and craft narratives that engage and inform specific audiences. Emphasis is placed on digital storytelling through scripting, storyboarding, persuasive writing, and visual design, helping students move from media consumers to thoughtful, responsible content creators. Students work independently and collaboratively to solve creative and technical challenges, give and receive constructive feedback, and contribute to shared production goals. Throughout the course, students examine the ethical responsibilities of media makers and consider the impact of their messages on local and global audiences. Industry workshops and guest speakers expose students to real-world practices and evolving technologies, encouraging curiosity, adaptability, and lifelong learning. 

• 1 Credit
• Prerequisites: Communications 1; open to juniors and seniors
• Communications 2 builds upon the skills and concepts introduced in Communications 1 through an advanced, project-based learning environment that mirrors real-world media production. Students assume increasingly complex roles as communicators, collaborators, and problem solvers while producing large-scale projects such as commercials, public service announcements, industrial videos, show segments, and podcasts. Students engage in electronic news gathering, field production, studio production, advanced lighting, and post-production workflows while working in collaborative crews. Emphasis is placed on leadership, accountability, and effective teamwork as students plan productions, troubleshoot challenges, and refine content through revision and reflection. Cross-course collaboration with upper-level classes further strengthens communication skills and professional work habits. Throughout the course, students analyze audience/viewer trends, ethical considerations, and the impact of media messages. They also explore strategies for digital distribution and building a web presence to expand viewership and community engagement. Industry workshops and professional interactions reinforce adaptability, innovation, and preparation for postsecondary pathways in media, communications, and beyond.

• 1/2 Credit
• Prerequisite: open to juniors and seniors - or - permission of instructor
• Prerequisite: open to juniors and seniors - or - permission of instructor
  Pre-College writing is designed to guide students toward becoming more effective communicators and critical thinkers. Through careful exploration  of diverse works of both fiction and nonfiction and the world around them students learn to look more closely and see  what is essential as they draft original pieces. 
  
  Students generate essays and speeches and participate in formal debates as they are encouraged to see the value of the written word in and out of the academic setting.  The curriculum encourages learners to assess their own words as a means for continual growth as a student and citizen of the world.
   
  During the fall semester, students write a personal narrative (the college application essay) as part of this course. 
  
  Successful completion of the course prepares students for future endeavors, academic or otherwise. The course is NCAA approved.

• 1/2 Credit
• Prerequisite: English 11R
• This course pushes students to indulge in the creative process.  In turn, students hone their ability to effectively communicate their thoughts through poetry and prose.  Students build works of fiction, nonfiction and poetry from the bottom up with careful exploration of their audience, relevant topics, and their voice.
   
  Students read model literature and author commentaries as a means to explore techniques that they may practice in their own writing.  Students are encouraged to critically think their way through the writing process, to identify what interests them, and to seek constructive feedback from their peers.  In addition to writing on behalf of their own interests, students consider what it means to write in a manner that speaks to humanity and taps into the emotional core that unites  a diverse range of personalities.
   
  During the fall semester, students write a personal narrative (the college application essay) as part of this course. 
  
  Successful completion of the course prepares students for future endeavors, academic or otherwise. The course is NCAA approved.
   

• 1 HS Credit/ 3 College Credits
• Prerequisites: Pass English 10H, or English 11H with an 80% or above, and teacher recommendation
• To be eligible for College Credit students must have a minimum GPA of 85 AND and 85 on the Regents exam
• This course, offered by SUNY Orange, is available to students that have completed three years of English and have met the requirements as listed by SUNY Orange  as well as teacher and counselor recommendations. 
  
  This (college) Freshman English composition sequence introduces college-level writing and revision, construction of expository essays, and research skills. Reading and class discussion center on the formal and informal essay. Research essay is required and will be based on issues present within students' local, global, and digital communities. Critical thinking and communication skills will be practiced and assessed throughout the curriculum through writing assignments and presentations. Students that successfully complete this semester-long course will earn 3 college credits 

• 1 HS Credit/ 3 College Credits
• Prerequisites: Pass SUNY College English 101
• To be eligible for College Credit students must have a minimum GPA of 85 AND and 85 on the Regents exam
• In this second course in the SUNY College English 102 (prerequisite: SUNY College English 101), students learn to read critically, to organize supporting details, and to develop coherent oral and written arguments. Fiction, drama and poetry are used as common texts as students work individually and in groups as they reflect on and analyze the written works studied. An analytical research paper is required.