ENGLISH 9 H (EN310)

Grade 9; 5 credits; One Year Required

This advanced course immerses college-bound students in rigorous literary analysis and elevated writing instruction. Students explore diverse literary works while developing higher-level analytical, argumentative, and narrative writing skills. The study of literature includes a well-rounded canon of short stories, poetry, drama, novels, and nonfiction exploring topics including American voices, survival, civil rights, star-crossed romances, journeys of transformation, and our future world. 

The writer's workshop emphasizes creative expression, distinctive voice, and advanced composition techniques. Written work develops style, voice, structure, evidence, and technical writing conventions. Students participate in a variety of collaborative discussions and deliver oral presentations to enhance their speaking and listening skills. Vocabulary and high-stakes test preparation are infused into unit design in partnership with the literature. Instruction is designed to assist the student in building the foundation for language, literature, and composition studies that may be encountered in future coursework.  All English courses have a required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ENGLISH 9 CP A/B (EN210/110)

Grade 9; 5 credits; One Year Required

This course prepares college-bound students through structured literature study and writing development. Students explore diverse literary works while building essential analytical, argumentative, and narrative writing skills. The literature portion is approached thematically and includes short stories, poetry, drama, novels, essays, and nonfiction exploring topics including American voices, survival, civil rights, star-crossed romances, journeys of transformation, and our future world. Reading and language skills are developed utilizing a variety of instructional strategies and online resources. Additional support is provided through the Reading Plus/MHRD Reads Program to strengthen reading comprehension and language skills.

The writer's workshop explores various approaches to analytical, argumentative, and narrative writing while focusing on the development of effective communication, clear organization, and proper writing mechanics. Students participate in a variety of collaborative discussions and deliver oral presentations to enhance speaking and listening skills. Vocabulary and high-stakes test preparation are infused into unit design in partnership with the literature.  Instruction is designed to assist the student in building the foundation for language, literature, and composition studies that may be encountered in future coursework.  All English courses have a required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ENGLISH 10 H (EN320)

Grade 10; 5 credits; One Year Required; Prerequisite: English 9 Honors or 9 CPA with Teacher Recommendation

This advanced college-prep course deepens students' mastery of literary analysis and sophisticated composition. Students craft refined narrative, explanatory, argumentative, and critical essays while developing their creative voice and command of writing mechanics. Through thematic and chronological study of American literature and global voices, students explore universal themes across diverse texts including nonfiction, essays, short stories, novels, poetry, and drama. Close reading skills, advanced organizational techniques, and elevated written expression are emphasized. Vocabulary development and NJGPA or equivalent test preparation are integrated throughout the literature-based curriculum. All English courses have a required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ENGLISH 10 CP A/B (EN220/120)

Grade 10; 5 credits; One Year Required; Prerequisite: English 9 CP A/B 

This college-prep course continues to strengthen students' literary analysis and writing skills through diverse instructional approaches. Students develop explanatory, argumentative, and narrative writing, focusing on audience awareness, clear expression, and proper mechanics. The curriculum explores American literature and global voices through thematic or chronological study, examining nonfiction, essays, short stories, novels, poetry, and drama. Reading comprehension and writing skills are enhanced through the Reading Plus/MHRD Reads Program, with vocabulary and NJGPA or equivalent test preparation integrated throughout the literature-based units. All English courses have a required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT LITERATURE & COMPOSITION (EN440)

Grade 11/12; 5 credits; One Year Elective or English Requirement; Prerequisite: English 10 Honors or English 10 CPA with Teacher Recommendation

A major objective of the course is to prepare the student to take the Advanced Placement Examination and to receive recognition for college-level achievement in English Literature and Composition. The course offers an intensive study of representative works from several literary genres and periods. The focus of the course is on both the study of literature and the practice of analytical writing. Critical analysis of poetry, drama, short stories, novels, and essays will be combined with the study of literature to emphasize the resources of language, including but not limited to diction, details, imagery, syntax, and tone. The student will develop critical standards for the appreciation of literature, the ability to use the modes of discourse, and an understanding of the relationship of literary work to contemporary experience as well as to the times in which it was written. To enroll in this course, students should be recommended by the English Department. Students will also complete a mandatory summer reading assignment in preparation for the course of study throughout the school year in addition to the required district-wide summer reading assignment.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION (EN431)

Grade 11/12; 5 credits; One Year Elective or English Requirement; Prerequisite: English 10 Honors or English 10 CPA with Teacher Recommendation

A major objective of the course is to prepare the student to take the Advanced Placement Examination and to receive recognition for college-level achievement in English Language and Composition. This course focuses on the art of rhetoric and the effective use of language. Students may study novel, short story, autobiography, biography, speeches, satire, and essays in addition to current event articles.  Students examine how language works to evoke emotion through sophisticated reading and the analysis of words, patterns, and structures that create subtle effects of language. Students learn to write about language descriptively and demonstrate knowledge of grammar conventions and structural patterns, as well as an awareness of connotation and shades of meaning in context. Students are prepared to sit for the AP Language and Composition exam, which tests their ability to read critically and to write in the following modes: synthesis, rhetorical analysis, and open argument. The content of the AP Language and Composition course provides a more theory-based focus on the process of interpretation and analysis of arguments and the rhetorical situation. To enroll in this course, students should be recommended by the English Department. Students will also complete a mandatory summer reading assignment in preparation for the course of study throughout the school year in addition to the required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ENGLISH 11 H (EN330)

Grade 11; 5 credits; One Year Required; Prerequisite: English 10 Honors or 10 CPA with Teacher Recommendation 

This honors course for the college-bound student examines literature's reflection of the human condition through thematic study of contemporary and classic texts. Students analyze historical, cultural, and socioeconomic contexts through collaborative work, independent research, and Socratic discussions. Advanced writing assignments include analytical papers, character studies, critical reviews, literary criticism responses, and poetry explication, emphasizing sophisticated expression and thorough textual analysis. Students refine their mastery of writing mechanics while developing a distinctive voice and analytical depth. Preparation includes extensive writing practice, vocabulary development, and NJGPA test preparation. All English courses have a required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ENGLISH 11 CP A/B (EN230/130)

Grades 11; 5 credits; One Year Required; Prerequisite: English 10 CP A/B 

This college-prep course explores the human condition through contemporary and classic literature using a thematic, multi-genre approach. Students examine short stories, poems, plays, essays, and novels from diverse global perspectives.  A balance of literature, language, and composition skills will furnish the student with the skills needed for college and career paths. The course builds upon skills in explanatory, argumentative,  and narrative writing as students learn to develop the thoroughness of their written responses while strengthening their awareness of audience, clear expression, organization, and proper mechanics. Refinement of reading skills, organizational ability, and control of grammar and mechanics of expression are goals of the instructional methodology. Reading comprehension and writing skills are enhanced through the Reading Plus/MHRD Reads Program, with vocabulary and NJGPA test preparation integrated throughout the literature-based units.  All English courses have a required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT LITERATURE & COMPOSITION (EN440)

Grade 11/12; 5 credits; One Year Elective or English Requirement; Prerequisite: English 10 Honors/11 Honors or English 10 CPA/11CPA with Teacher Recommendation

A major objective of the course is to prepare the student to take the Advanced Placement Examination and to receive recognition for college-level achievement in English Literature and Composition. The course offers an intensive study of representative works from several literary genres and periods. The focus of the course is on both the study of literature and the practice of analytical writing. Critical analysis of poetry, drama, short stories, novels, and essays will be combined with the study of literature to emphasize the resources of language, including but not limited to diction, details, imagery, syntax, and tone. The student will develop critical standards for the appreciation of literature, the ability to use the modes of discourse, and an understanding of the relationship of literary work to contemporary experience as well as to the times in which it was written. To enroll in this course, students should be recommended by the English Department. Students will also complete a mandatory summer reading assignment in preparation for the course of study throughout the school year in addition to the required district-wide summer reading assignment.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION (EN431)

Grade 11/12; 5 credits; One Year Elective or English Requirement; Prerequisite: English 10 Honors/11 Honors or English 10 CPA/11CPA with Teacher Recommendation

A major objective of the course is to prepare the student to take the Advanced Placement Examination and to receive recognition for college-level achievement in English Language and Composition. This course focuses on the art of rhetoric and the effective use of language. Students may study novel, short story, autobiography, biography, speeches, satire, and essays in addition to current event articles.  Students examine how language works to evoke emotion through sophisticated reading and the analysis of words, patterns, and structures that create subtle effects of language. Students learn to write about language descriptively and demonstrate knowledge of grammar conventions and structural patterns, as well as an awareness of connotation and shades of meaning in context. Students are prepared to sit for the AP Language and Composition exam, which tests their ability to read critically and to write in the following modes: synthesis, rhetorical analysis, and open argument. The content of the AP Language and Composition course provides a more theory-based focus on the process of interpretation and analysis of arguments and the rhetorical situation. To enroll in this course, students should be recommended by the English Department. Students will also complete a mandatory summer reading assignment in preparation for the course of study throughout the school year in addition to the required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ENGLISH 12 CP A/B (EN240/140)

Grade 12; 5 credits; One Year Required; Prerequisite: English 11 CP A/B 

This college-prep course explores life's pivotal moments through global literature across multiple genres. Students analyze themes, literary techniques, and authorial choices through reading, discussion, and research. The curriculum emphasizes effective communication through oral discussion, written composition, and vocabulary development. Students craft well-organized writing that demonstrates audience awareness, expressive language, and technical proficiency. Throughout the course, students develop critical analysis skills while exploring literature's role in reflecting and illuminating human experience. All English courses have a required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ENGLISH 12 SERVICE LEARNING (EN241) 

Grade 12; 5 credits; One Year Non-required English Elective or English replacement course in senior year only; Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and departmental approval  

Students tackle real community challenges while building essential English skills. Working with local organizations, they design and lead service projects that create lasting impact. Through hands-on fieldwork and thoughtful reflection, students develop leadership abilities and explore what it means to be engaged citizens. The course combines rigorous academic work with meaningful community engagement, culminating in a capstone project that showcases both personal growth and community contribution. If taken as an English replacement course in senior year, please be advised this course will meet NCAA Division I or Division II requirements for eligibility.  To enroll in this course, students should be recommended by the English Department. Students will complete a brief application process as well as a small summer assignment to prepare for the service learning journey.  This is in addition to the required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

ENGLISH 12 EXPOSITORY & CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP (EN242)

Grades 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Non-required English Elective or English replacement course in senior year only: Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and departmental approval  

Students transform their imagination into powerful stories in this hands-on creative writing workshop. Through four exciting genres - from personal essays to gripping fiction - they discover the secrets of great writers. Students craft unforgettable characters, develop their unique voice, and build a portfolio of polished work. The course guides both aspiring novelists and passionate storytellers in creating meaningful, publication-ready pieces. Students end the year with a collection of polished work they'll be proud to share! If taken as an English replacement course in senior year, please be advised this course will meet NCAA Division I or Division II requirements for eligibility. To enroll in this course, students should be recommended by the English Department and complete a brief application process.  All English courses have a required district-wide summer reading assignment. 

*Three college credits may be earned through the Fairleigh Dickinson University Middle College Program.