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English 9 – Introduction to Literature                Grade 9, Credit 1.0

Students will be introduced to literary terms, figurative language, and the writing process.  Students will also discover many forms of literature, including short stories, plays, epics, and novels.  Texts include:  “The Odyssey”, “Romeo and Juliet”, and The Outsiders.  Writing is also the focus, with students experimenting with many forms, including creative writing, persuasive, narrative, expository, and descriptive.  Grammar is also an integral part of the course.  Students read and/or write daily.

 English 10 - World Literature                     Grade 10, Credit 1.0

This course will focus on improving reading comprehension skills and writing skills, through the study of world literature.  Students will explore the different types of literature such as poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and drama, as well as the different tools needed to comprehend the different genres.  However, within those broader topics, we will also be concentrating on a variety of other skills such as improving vocabulary, presentation and problem-solving skills, and working effectively in groups.  Whenever possible, students will work on topics that parallel the material being presented in your construction classes, as well as improving skills that will help you not only in the construction field, but in everyday life.

 English 11 - American Literature                Grade 11, Credit 1.0

This class will primarily focus on building strong reading and writing skills through the study of American literature. Students in this course will explore the different types of genres to enhance students’ understanding and appreciation of the ways in which the American literary experience was influenced by American history.  Both American literature and technical documents will be used to develop critical reading and writing ability.  However within those broader topics, we will also be concentrating on a variety of other skills such as interpersonal skills, workplace readiness, and building vocabulary.  Whenever possible, students will work on topics that parallel the material being presented in their construction classes, as well as improving skills that will help not only in the construction field, but in everyday life.  Some texts studied include, Our Town, To Kill A Mockingbird, and I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings.

English 12 – British Literature                                     Grade 12, Credit 1.0

Students will review literary terms, figurative language, and the writing process.  The focus for this course is on reading comprehension and critical thinking.  Reading material includes: “Beowulf”, Inside Out, Lord of the Flies, Animal Farm, and “Macbeth”.  The writing assignments focus on writing as a process.  Students will also experiment with many styles of writing.  Finally, grammar is reviewed.  Projects are also part of this course.  Students read and/or write daily.


English – Public Speaking                                              Grade 9-12, Credit .5

This basic course in speech is designed to develop each student's  ability to communicate effectively in his/her academic, business, and social life. The two content areas for this course are referred to as delivery skills and speech structure skills. Delivery skills include eye contact, gestures, confidence, language usage and use of voice. Speech strucure skills include learning the correct structure and how to prepare, develop, and organize formal speeches. The major emphasis is on the prepation, content, and delivery of formal speeches, but other areas of the communication process are explored, particularly listening. Focus will be on senior portfolio preparation.                      

Literacy                                                       Grade 9-11, Credit .5

This class teaches and practices reading and writing skills and strategies.  Using high interest reading materials, the class reads, discusses, summarizes, questions, and writes about text.  At the end of the year, most students are more comfortable and skilled at reading silently and aloud, as well as developing vocabulary and reflecting on and developing opinions about written material. We implement all aspects of the state mandated scaffolded literacy program.