Course Descriptions: English

English 9 is designed to meet the needs of the individual pupil in the skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and understanding with a concentration on literary analysis. Areas of emphasis are the development of mature vocabulary and disciplined writing, which utilizes language for specific purposes, and the application of literature to real life.

The English 10 curriculum continues to build on the language arts skills necessary to achieve success on the NYS English Regents. The foundation for the course rests firmly on the NYS learning standards for speaking and listening, reading, writing and language use where attention is given to tasks and strategies through a variety of learning experiences in all units. An emphasis on literary analysis, close readings of a limited number of dense texts from a variety of genres, and a deeper exploration into themes and authors’craft will form the core of the course. Additionally, the course is designed to challenge students to further develop their independent study habits, work ethics, organization, and time management skills.

The aims of reading are chiefly: (1) to read with comprehension; (2 to understand, enjoy and appreciate the literature with selections chosen to emphasize a variety of genre, chiefly in American literature.

In writing, the aims are (1) to develop accuracy of mechanics through drills in vocabulary, spelling, dictionary usage, punctuation and grammar; outlining for organization of material; library usage as needed for research material; precise writing drills for grasping the central thought of reading and for conciseness of writing; (2) to write analytically and critically about literature; (3) to work toward a mature style of expression and to emphasize originality and development of content through themes of all types and letter writing.

Students will be preparing to take the Regents Exam in English Language Arts.

The primary focus for the senior year is to help students for the next step after high school. English 12 is designed to aid the students in this transition. The curriculum will require students to practice comprehensive reading strategies and literary analysis. Through extensive writing and research practices the students will explore various topics of study related to fiction and non-fiction genres. English 12 is a course designed to prepare seniors for college, expository analysis of non-fiction, and interpretive literary analysis. Students continue to build writing skills through process writing, grammar review, and vocabulary development. Instruction will focus on refining reading strategies; developing the ability to analyze and interpret literary texts; increasing vocabulary and communicating and extending understanding. The student will respond to, analyze and interpret literary texts in class discussion, projects and presentations. Through extensive writing and research practices the students will explore various topics of study related to fiction and non-fiction genres.

English 101 is a composition course. By focusing on several kinds of writing, self-expressive, informative, argumentative and others, it teaches the student to produce the clear, correct and effective prose required in a wide variety of professions and occupations.

English 102 is a writing and literature course. This course seeks to deepen the understanding of human nature and the human condition through the study of ideas and values expressed in literature. Emphasis is placed on the use and development of critical thinking and language skills.

English 101/English 102 run concurrently, and therefore fulfill the English 12 requirement and is offered to students aspiring to earn up to six college credits through MVCC. The course curriculum follows the standard English 101/English 102 courses taken by college freshmen. Students should approach this class with
the understanding that it is a college level course that requires collegiate effort.

Upon successful completion of English 101 & 102, MVCC will award a total of 6 college credits.

This full-year course is a special college-level learning experience. Reading is on a very mature and challenging level. Discussion of literary works and analytical writing are at the core of the course. Students learn literary terminology and techniques of analysis they will need to succeed in college English courses. Students
are required to take the AP exam in May and may earn advanced standing and/or college credit based on their scores. Students should be recommended by their 11th grade English teachers.