PLEASE NOTE: Students who fail ninth or tenth grade English must successfully repeat the course before they move on to the next English course in the sequence. No student will be allowed to take an English course out of sequence. However, Seniors may take both English 11 and English 12 if they fail English 11 during their Junior year, and do not pass English during summer school.

English 9 (1 credit)

The students in a Grade 9 English program work on a variety of projects. The students are given an introduction to literary terms and usage. This is done by reading short stories, plays, poems and novels. The students are also instructed in writing paragraphs, essays, reports, compositions, business letters and some creative writing. Students are required to do a library research project. Through these writing strategies the proper usage of grammar, sentence structure and punctuation are taught. Emphasis is also placed on public speaking.

English 10 (1 credit)

Students in Grade 10 receive continued reinforcement of writing skills and are expected to write longer, more structured essays than those done in Grade 9. Students will read short stories, plays, poems and novels of an increasingly difficult nature. Standard written usage is reinforced through guided worksheets and student writing.

English 11 (1 credit)

English 11 emphasizes the study of all forms of American literature from colonial times to present day. The class will focus heavily on student writing, listening and thinking skills as the final preparation for the ELA Exam which all students must pass to be eligible to graduate. Students should expect nightly reading assignments and weekly writing assignments.

English 12 (1 credit)

This course has been designed for seniors to further reading and writing skills. Content will include a variety of literature, writing, and reading assignments, as well as re-emphasis on career opportunities and preparation for further education. Successful completion of a typed research paper is required.

College English (1 credit)

This course has been designed for 12th grade students who excel in English. Students will earn college credit through Onondaga Community College (3 credits for English 103, 3 credits for English 104 upon payment of tuition). Course content is typical of any college’s freshman literature and freshman composition courses, and will consist of extensive in-depth writing and advanced literature. This class may take the place of the regular 12th grade Regents English or be used as a fifth unit of English for those who wish to have an English major.

Children’s Literature [Elective] (1 credit)

This in an elective for those who might be interested in either teaching (pre-kindergarten to junior high) or writing children’s literature. Coursework will include plenty of reading and writing. Major projects will include book reviews and original writing. Students will also visit elementary classrooms to observe readings and return later in the semester to read their own original work. Reading levels, fads in literary fiction, illustrations, and political correctness will be explored. Students will read "classics" and search for new favorites. Guest speakers may include elementary teachers and/or librarians, published authors, and reading specialists.

Any questions about this course should be directed to Mr. Witmer.