(1 CREDIT) REGENTS

This course is a study of how the American experience is reflected in American literature. Students will continue to hone their writing and critical thinking skills through literary and non-fiction texts. Argumentative writing is emphasized. A significant amount of time will be spent preparing for the ELA exam given in June. In preparation for higher-level reading, students will learn reading strategies for complex texts.

(1 CREDIT) HONORS REGENTS

This advanced course is a study of how the American experience, both past and present, are reflected in American literature. Students will participate in a variety of reading activities to develop their critical thinking and writing skills. Argumentative writing is emphasized. Students will prepare for the ELA exam given in June. This course is for students preparing for UHS classes and college-level work, and students should show a high level of independence and motivation in this class.

(1 CREDIT) HONORS REGENTS

Prerequisites: Average of an 85 or better in the first three quarters of Pre-IB English 10, must fit the IB Learner Profile showing interest in literature, motivation, and a desire to learn, and must complete the IB Summer Reading Assignment

This rigorous and challenging course is the first half of the two-year IB course—English A: Literature. This course promotes an appreciation of literature and knowledge of other cultures and societies. Students will complete a major literary analysis as well as several oral presentations. Students will develop their critical reading skills and increase their expertise in literary analysis. Students taking this course should be self-motivated and have a strong interest in literature.

(1 CREDIT)

This course focuses on preparing students for college and careers. Three main areas of focus include Identity in Literature and Life, 21st Century Literacy and Communication Skills./ Students will strengthen their writing, reading, speaking, and listening skills in preparation for their post-secondary experience. Students will develop a portfolio throughout the year and produce a senior project, which allows students to demonstrate mastery in the three main types of writing – narrative, persuasive and informative.

(1 CREDIT) (6 CHS CREDITS, SCCC, ENG 123 & 124)

Prerequisites: 80 or higher on ELA Exam & English 11

This challenging, College-in the-High-School course is for students who want a rigorous course with an opportunity to earn 6 college credits. In the first semester, students will participate in an intensive writing course and will demonstrate mastery in utilizing the writing process and producing cohesive and effective essays. During the second semester, students critically analyze literature, exploring such issues as how literature reflects the human experience and writer’s craft. Students will participate in a variety of classroom activities to develop their understanding of literary analysis and foster their communication skills.

(1 CREDIT) HONORS

Prerequisites: Successful completion of English A1: Literature HL YR 1

This second year of the IB course continues to promote an appreciation of literature and knowledge of other cultures and societies. Students will read a variety of styles and literary genres including: short story and the novel, poetry, memoir and drama. Oral and written examinations are used to assess students’ individual language skills, their ability to critically analyze and comment upon familiar and unfamiliar texts, and their ability to express a personal and independent response to literature. This course prepares students for the IB English exam administered in May and fulfills the Group 1 Language requirement for the IB Diploma or Certificate.

(1/2 CREDIT)

Are you interested in learning about African American writers that have transformed the literary canon? This course explores the works of African American writers from slavery through the Harlem Renaissance to present day. Through close reading of and writing about selected literary works, students will continue to develop their analytical skills in literary critique. Writing tasks will expose students to exposition, literary analysis, narrative, and description.

(1/2 CREDIT) ENGLISH 12 CREDIT

This course surveys various heroes and legends of literature. Students will analyze different adaptations of the hero story throughout history by studying heroes and legends such as Beowulf, Greek mythology, Thor, Joan of Arc, Davy Crocket, Mulan, Arthurian legends, Mansa Musa, and Japanese Samurai warriors. The study may also include contemporary works such as The Watchmen and Iron Man. Students will analyze and critique how these characters are developed through different forms such as text, film, music, and art.

(1/2 CREDIT) ENGLISH 12 CREDIT

When and where did Hip Hop start? What is “flow”? How has rhythm and rhyme shifted due to social and political influences? This course will explore these questions as well as allow students an entire unit to explore hip hop artists of their choice and complete a multi-media project. Topics studied in this class are the history of Hip Hop and origin and sub-genres, how current events impact Hip-Hop as well as how this genre has influenced social change, and the musical and literary analysis of Hip-Hop.

(1/2 CREDIT) ENGLISH 12 CREDIT

Horror fiction and film uses popular mythology to explore the dark, squalid areas of popular culture. This semester long course examines society’s dreams and the myths it creates through horror fiction and film. Specifically, this course will explore the relationship of horror fiction and film and the underlying issues of gender, race, class, ethnicity, and the power within. Several films will be viewed and related works of horror fiction are required reading. The goal of this course will be to look beneath the surface of the films and texts in order to develop a theory of the horror genre as it relates to modern culture.

(1 CREDIT) 3CHS SIENA CREDIT AND CREDIT FOR OBSERVATION HOURS

ENGLISH 12 CREDIT

This course introduces students to the professional field of education and explores the complex challenges in education today. Issues may include history and philosophy of education; purpose and role of public education; rights and responsibilities of all educational stakeholders; and interactions among the school, home, and community that support and enhance student learning. In particular, this course will explore the issue of educational access, emphasizing student diversity. A field experience is required.

(1 CREDIT) ENGLISH 12 CREDIT

This course is a survey of journalism and will include a historical perspective of news as well as contemporary issues in journalism. Students will focus on various aspects of newspaper production, including copy writing, advertising, layout design, ethics, and feature writing. Students will be responsible for the production of the school’s newspaper, The Patriot, and may be expected to make an after-school commitment.

(1/2 CREDIT) ENGLISH 12 CREDIT

What is the most powerful word you know? Words carry the power to divide and to heal. In this course students will work from the present to the past, studying the effect of our words and their origins. Students will learn more about culture through current slang and how language has evolved across the globe.

(1 CREDIT)

What is your voice? Do you want to be heard? How can we make your voice stronger? This course will empower students to operate a relevant, live-wire online presence of all of the VOICES in Schenectady High School. The site will include editorial, creative writing, original songs, podcasts, short films, artwork, and much more! Students in this class will be able to choose between a variety of roles: writer, interviewer, recruiter, actor, artist, vlogger, etc. The goal of this course would be to unite the school community on a common platform for sharing and creating.