The goal of English instruction at Mahopac High School is to guide students to achieve mastery of the New York State Next Generation English Language Arts Learning Standards .  It is expected that students will achieve mastery in reading, writing, listening, and speaking during each English course.  All students receive preparation to take the English Regents exam that is taken in the junior year.  All English students are encouraged to complete summer reading.

The advanced classes in English are designed for the exceptional or highly motivated student.  Students must show evidence of outstanding reading comprehension, adeptness in composing compositions, and a high level of motivation.  They will be required to read substantial amounts of sophisticated literature on their own at home.  Advanced students will deal with complex materials with an advanced level of vocabulary.   In addition, they will be expected to participate meaningfully in class discussions and to compose engaging essays for a variety of purposes.  All students in advanced courses will be required to complete summer reading.