English Electives

THE ART OF FILM (EN957)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year, Non-required English Elective

Lights, Camera, Action! Students explore the fascinating world of cinema through hands-on film analysis. From pulse-pounding action to mind-bending sci-fi, they discover what makes legendary films unforgettable. The course reveals the secrets behind iconic scenes, the art of film criticism, and the inner workings of Hollywood. Through creative projects and engaging discussions, students develop their critical voice and understanding of cinematic storytelling. Perfect for future filmmakers and passionate movie enthusiasts looking to peek behind the scenes of movie magic.

EXPOSITORY & CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP (EN950)

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  

Explore Writer's Workshop!  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! 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.

PUBLIC SPEAKING AND WRITING (EN952)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Non-required English Elective

Command the room! Students master the art of public speaking through dynamic, hands-on experience. They learn proven techniques to overcome stage fright and captivate audiences through poetry readings, persuasive speeches, and impromptu talks. As students practice voice control and body language, they develop the confidence to inspire, convince, and entertain. Through planned presentations, students build skills essential for future leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals.

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  

Take Learning Beyond the Classroom! 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. 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.

BRIDGES TO SUCCESS - ELA (EN001)

Grade 12;  2.5 or 5 credits; Elective

Bridge to Success! This course is designed to assist students with meeting their state testing requirements for graduation. Students will prepare for senior year administration of the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment, an alternative assessment, or the portfolio assessment.  Bridges to Success - ELA may be required for those students who have not met proficiency on the NJGPA assessment or earned the minimum score on one of the New Jersey Department of Education approved alternative assessments.   Those who have not met the minimum scores will develop a portfolio during the second semester for the high school graduation appeal process.

^^Course eligibility for the Middle College Program may vary from year to year.  Check with your instructor at the start of the school year to see the most up-to-date list of eligible classes.

NEWS IN THE DIGITAL AGE (EN953)

Grades 9-12; 2.5 credits; Half Year Non-required English Elective

Build Digital Detective Skills! Students will master the art of navigating today's lightning-fast news landscape and viral stories like a pro. In this hands-on course, students learn to spot fact from fiction and master the tools real journalists use. Students will dive into breaking news, analyze viral trends, and understand how social media shapes what we see. Through real-world investigations and engaging projects, they'll become digital detectives, armed with skills to outsmart misinformation. Perfect for future journalists, social media managers, or anyone who wants to stay one step ahead in the digital world!

MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISM (EN951)

Grades 10, 11, 12; 2.5 credits; Half Year Non-required English Elective

Tell the Story, Change the World! Students transform into digital storytellers in this hands-on journalism course and master writing, visual storytelling, technical skills, and social media strategies to share powerful stories that matter. They will connect with the school and community while building professional skills valued by colleges and employers. This course develops essential digital storytelling abilities for aspiring journalists, content creators, and modern communicators.

SAT PREPARATION (EN921)

Grades 10 (spring only),11; 2.5 credits; Half Year Non-required English Elective 

Crush the SAT! The primary goal of this semester course is to help students prepare for the SAT in math and language arts.  Students will receive one marking period of mathematics instruction and one marking period of language arts instruction.  In this course, students will learn tips for each question type, practice with real test questions, and build speed with timed practice tests.