Sophomore

ENGLISH 10 (005/006) 

Grade 10: Level 2/Honors

(Year) 1.50 credits

Literature studied in grade ten is written by predominantly twentieth-century authors. The anthology is Responding to Literature, Blue Edition. Literature includes the novel, short story, biography/autobiography, non-fiction, poetry, modern drama, Shakespearean drama and the media. The major theme of English 10 is retaining an individual identity while also thriving as a member of society. Key terms are identity, empathy, justice, mercy, legacy and responsibility.

In this course, students receive multiple opportunities to work towards proficiency in the following D-Y Learning Expectations: communicating appropriately and effectively through reading, writing, and oral presentation. To reach proficiency in writing, students will complete open response questions, process pieces, and timed writes. The focus is on writing and supporting thesis statements with evidence as well as improving fluency. To reach proficiency in reading, students actively read poems, short stories, and novels. When actively reading, students find main ideas, compare and contrast, detect bias, make connections, and build vocabulary. To reach proficiency in oral presentation, students learn to establish a purpose, organize thoughts, speak clearly and expressively, and maintain effective physical expression. 

Vocabulary studied is generated from the literature. Compositions assigned on a regular basis may be either literature or non-literature based. Students will present a minimum of three formal speeches.

Students are encouraged to develop a positive attitude toward implementing study skills, enjoying literature, improving writing skills and expanding vocabulary. Writing is integral in the process of learning, thinking and communicating. 

Students will exhibit correct standard English in oral and written communication and use MLA format in research projects and preparing essays and be assessed using school-wide rubrics. Students work towards developing independence in these skills as required to be college and career ready. 

Students will become familiar with the Next Generation MCAS exam’s format and practice writing and reading strategies using the rubrics and exemplars provided by the state.

Students continue learning and practicing the skills to meet the English Department’s Research Skills and Grammar Skills benchmarks which correspond to Common Core State Standards. 

Instructional methods include small and large group discussions, writing partnerships and response groups, oral reports, audio-visual materials and lectures. Mechanics and grammar are taught from composition assignments and oral responses.

Honors Option: 

Honors English 10 is for highly motivated students who demonstrate the skills necessary to analyze and understand as well as exhibit an appreciation for literature. Their attitude and performance reflect a sense of responsibility in written and oral expression and a desire to excel.

Students at the honors level examine the same themes as level 2 students, occasionally using different literary selections. 

NARRATIVE WRITING 

Grade 9-12  (032)

Level 2 

(SEM) .50 credits

(Semester) .50 credits

Narrative Writing is a class designed for all levels of students who like to write and want to improve their writing skills. In Narrative Writing, students will not only learn to be writers, but also will learn how to be readers, responders, and editors. They will learn what it means to be part of a writing community. A positive attitude toward growth as a writer is a prerequisite for this course. Instructional methods will focus on initially establishing a comfortable and nurturing writing environment, small group work, individual conferencing, and occasional large group direct instruction. Students will keep a journal in which they will write in response to guided prompts as well as individual choice topics. Students will accept the responsibility to generate ideas; select ideas for development; consider various methods and techniques of idea development; experiment with new techniques, styles, and genres; and finally, edit specific drafts for mechanical accuracy.  Students taking this course should be prepared to have their work published either in an online forum or in a print magazine for distribution.

POETRY AND PERFORMANCE (997)

Grades 9-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .50 credits

This course explores poetry as both a literary art and a performing art. Students examine diverse poetic styles, the lives of influential poets, and the cultural contexts of their work. Beyond the page, students will bridge the gap between written text and live performance, analyzing how language—including connotation, imagery, figurative language, and tone—informs the physical and vocal delivery of a poem.

In this course, students function as members of a creative conservatory. As writers, students engage in the recursive process of drafting and editing to develop original work. As performers, students apply theatrical techniques such as vocal projection, pacing, and movement to interpret and present both classic and contemporary poetry. Students will develop a performance portfolio, focusing on how artistic intent is communicated to a live audience.

Instructional methods include writing workshops, performance labs, peer critiques, and audio-visual analysis of spoken-word artists. Evaluation is based on written compositions and formal performance assessments, including a final showcase or "Slam" that demonstrates mastery of both the written word and the oral tradition.

DEBATE (134)

Grades 10-12:  Level 2

(Semester) .5 credits

This course introduces students to the principles and practices of debate. Debate emphasizes the development of skills in critical thinking, organization, leadership, responsibility for teamwork and creative investigation of selected topics.  No prior experience in debate is required.

Students will analyze topics from various points of view, develop an argument in a carefully designed framework and practice teamwork skills. Students will be able to transfer skills acquired from debate to practical, real-life situations.  Through hands-on activities, students learn to use library indexes and the internet to research, locate and use government documents and understand how and why current laws are enacted.

Concepts include: debate format, basic elements of debate process and types of propositions.  Topics are chosen mutually by the teacher and students to reflect current issues and concerns.

This course will foster appreciation for differing viewpoints, courage to defend a position and open-mindedness as the basis for reasoned thought and opinion, all through engaging in civil discourse.

INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS & MARKETING (254)

Grades 9-12 

(Semester) .5 credits

Introduction to Business and Marketing is recommended as a foundation course to a Business & Information Technology sequence. Students learn the functions of American and international business organizations in the global economy. Activities emphasize the roles of the consumer, marketer, and producer. Students learn the basics of the private enterprise system and are introduced to careers in business, including the opportunities of entrepreneurship and world trade.

GREEK MYTHOLOGY 

Grades 8 (050) 

(Quarter) 

Grades 9-12: Level 2 and Honors (049/099)

(Semester) .75 credits

Would you like to know why your sneakers are called Nike? This course is designed for students who have an interest in exploring the myths and legends that have shaped the modern world. It will be presumed upon course enrollment that students have basic proficiency in reading, writing and computer skills. Success in the course will be determined by students’ initiative both in and out of class. 

The chief focus of the course will be learning about and appreciating the role mythology plays in reflecting national, regional, and ethnic identities, as well as daily life. We will consider the role of mythology within the groups that perform and use it. Moreover, we will examine the influence of mythology systems on modern western culture. Although brief consideration will be given to the mythological systems of a number of cultures, myths and legends to be considered within the course will primarily include those of ancient Greece. Students should come to understand that these thought systems are both distinct from and interconnected with each other, and that they continue to command an important place in modern society as they replay themselves in modern form. Students will employ skills including reading, note-taking, essay writing, library research, individual presentations, group presentations and analytical thinking throughout the course.

BROADCASTING TECHNOLOGY (035/042)

Grades 9-12: Level 2 and Honors 

(Semester) .50 credits

Prerequisite: C or higher in Film Production and instructor approval

Broadcasting Technology is an immersive, hands-on video production course designed for students passionate about film and media creation. This class focuses on producing content for the DY News Show, DYMedia1 YouTube, social media, and the cable channel of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District. Students will have the opportunity to work on a variety of exciting projects, including creating promotional videos for upcoming events, interviewing students and faculty, recording major school events and ceremonies, and producing podcasts. Through these productions, students will learn how media can serve as a bridge, connecting the school community to the larger towns of Dennis and Yarmouth. Building on skills from the Film Production course, this class places a strong emphasis on developing time management and organizational abilities. Students will also be expected to attend and film after-school events. Ideal candidates will be self-motivated, collaborative, and eager to engage creatively and professionally with peers, staff, and community members.

Honors Option: 

Honors Broadcasting is designed for highly motivated students who have already demonstrated a strong foundation in video production. Students will take on greater responsibility in the production of the DY News Show, including writing news copy for on-air talent. Honors students are expected to approach their work with a high level of professionalism, showing a strong sense of responsibility as they create media for broadcast