Students are required to earn four (4) units of English and successfully complete the Common Core ELA Regents exam, as well as the coursework for English 12 and an additional elective of their choice prior to graduation. Successful completion of the Common Core ELA Regents exam is required to fulfill the New York State English requirement towards an Advanced Regents diploma.
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001 English 9
1 UNIT
This is a required Common Core course for all high school students. The students will study a variety of genres which will provide them with the framework necessary to successfully complete the Common Core ELA Regents Exam in grade 11. Reading, writing, listening and speaking for analysis and comprehension will be the focus of this course. Students are expected to complete projects and research related to literature studies and classroom instruction.
003 English 9 Honors
1 UNIT
This reading and writing intensive Common Core course serves as the foundation for the Advanced Placement Language and Literature Composition courses. Students will be expected to analyze literature, recognize use of rhetorical strategies, and develop a mature voice in writing in preparation for AP exams and the Common Core ELA Regents exam. Students who take this course must be prepared to work at an advanced level and be mature enough to handle a rigorous academic experience. It is expected that students will continue in the honors/AP program throughout high school. Placement for this course is based upon the referral of a teacher/school counselor.
019 English 10
1 UNIT
This is a Common Core course required for all high school students. An analysis of literature will be conducted providing students with an opportunity to build on those skills acquired in grade nine. The course is designed to prepare students to meet the demands of the Common Core ELA Regents Exam in grade 11. Critical reading and writing skills are emphasized.
016 English 10 Honors
1 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE AND/OR TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
This Common Core course is designed for 10th grade students formerly enrolled in the English 9 Honors course, who anticipate enrolling in advanced placement courses in grades 11 and 12. It is a challenging course aimed at preparing students to meet the rigorous demands of college level courses. Since the focus of the course will be the reading and analysis of literature and the writing process, those students who are both strong readers and writers are encouraged to enroll. Students will be expected to complete numerous writing assignments of varying lengths as well as both long term and independent projects. Students will take the Common Core ELA Regents exam at the end of the year. Enrollment in this course is limited to those students who meet the prerequisites.
052 Contemporary Connections
GRADES 10-12 1/2 UNIT
Are you interested in reading about teenagers and learning more about yourself? This Common Core course is designed for the student who wants to examine the conflicts young people face growing up in today’s diverse society. Through reading and writing, you will make connections to contemporary fictional and non-fictional characters, and you will be required to analyze their actions and motivations. You will also be expected to openly share your ideas and opinions based on your own experiences. In order to be successful in this course, class participation is mandatory. In addition, a research project using advanced research skills is required.
053 Detectives and Mysteries
GRADES 10-12 1/2 UNIT
As of recent, there has been a wave of refound interest in the classic genre of mystery. Human beings are fascinated with the idea of mystery because it peaks our natural curiosity, provokes our desire to know the unknown, and promotes our problem solving capabilities. This course seeks to understand the roots of the mystery genre through characters and authors such as Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie, read modern mysteries and related genres such as The Silent Patient, and anticipate where the future of this classic style will go. If you have an interest in psychology, crime, thrillers, unexpected twists, excitement, suspense, and/or exploring the darker side of humanity, this class is for you.
015 Public Speaking
GRADES 10-12 1/2 UNIT
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
Would you like to build your self-confidence while you develop formal and informal speaking skills? In this class, emphasis will be placed on finding your voice and discovering the important messages you want to share with others. The students will be encouraged to develop their thoughts, feelings and personal attitudes into effective messages for specific situations. If you have a desire to improve your self-confidence and want to learn techniques to represent your ideas more effectively, this course will be very valuable for you.
055 Call of the Wild
GRADES 10-12 1/2 UNIT
Have you ever imagined what it would be like to climb the world’s highest peak or descend into a desert canyon? Are you concerned about the global climate and the future of our planet? This Common Core course is designed to improve and broaden your non-fiction reading and writing skills. Students will read several exciting accounts of real-life adventures, while maintaining a clear focus on how humans impact the environment. Students interested in this course should have good attendance, a strong interest in reading outside of class, and research writing proficiency.
034 Science Fiction in the Age of Dystopia
GRADES 10-12 1/2 UNIT
If the planet Earth came to an end, and we could restart human life on a different planet, what kinds of borders/ boundaries would we be crossing? What would citizenship look like? Who or what could belong in the New World? How would this world be shaped as our engrained human values are confronted by a new way of life? This Common Core elective will delve into the dystopian realm through literature, discovering the dramatic changes due to our ever-evolving society afflicted by environmental disasters, plagues, and other technological advancements that change our world forever. In this course, this topic will be explored through reading, writing, and researching the world of dystopia.
058 Death as a Force in Life and Literature
GRADES 10-12 1/2 UNIT
While this course has death as its main theme, it is explored with a focus on life and living with the knowledge of death. We will attempt to understand the concepts related to death from a historical and cultural perspective by examining how death is personified throughout history in our literature, art, poetry, and music. Students will read a variety of texts and models for comparative inquiries into cultural views of death. Students who take this course should enjoy reading outside of class and be willing to be an active and interested member of class discussions and group research activities.
035 Sports in Literature
GRADES 10-12 1/2 UNIT
For centuries, sports have shaped the core values of human culture. As they have evolved over the years, becoming an essential part of the western civilization, people have allowed these experiences to shape who they are. In recent years, the world of sports has taught lessons of determination, commitment, and perseverance, meanwhile creating a true passion for something bigger than oneself that cannot be replicated by any other venture. In this Common Core elective, students will dive into the world of sports through reading, writing and researching the various modern topics and issues our society faces today.
AENG 106 Introduction to Literature and Film (University at Albany)
GRADES 11-12 1/2 UNIT 3 UHS Credits
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ IN PREVIOUS ENGLISH COURSE TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE AND/OR TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
Why do the best movies start as written stories? This is a question we’ll explore during our semester together. By the end of our semester, you should be well-versed on many aspects of filmmaking, film history, and film analysis. We will explore many elements of creating a movie, from the principles of film form, to types of movies, elements of narrative, mise-en-scene, cinematography, acting, editing, sound, and film history. We will read a number of short stories, novels, and screenplays before analyzing their adaptation to the big screen. Your attendance in the course is mandatory, as skills learned early in the course will benefit you later in the course. This course is run as a college seminar and therefore places a premium on preparation and participation. Our learning community requires consistent attendance and engagement. Expect to immerse yourself in the world of film and filmmaking, with the end-goal of becoming an expert at looking at movies.
Multicultural Literature Studies.webm032 Multicultural Literature Studies
GRADES 10-12 1/2 UNIT
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
In our ever-changing world of globalization, understanding and appreciating diverse cultures is fast becoming an essential requirement. In this Common Core course, students will read and research the literature and cultures that span the globe, with a specific focus on Native American, Middle Eastern, Asian, Caribbean, and African cultures. Students will also explore the immigrant experience with the goal of achieving a deeper understanding of the challenges and struggles these individuals often endure. This course will feature various texts, both fiction and nonfiction, as well as research and presentations. Students who take this course should enjoy reading outside of class and be willing to be an active and interested member of class discussions and group research activities.
025 English 11
1 UNIT
This is a literature course covering a number of literary genres. The Common Core course focuses on the development of skills in the areas of vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension, literary analysis, and critical writing. Emphasis will be placed on skills necessary for success on the Common Core ELA Regents exam given at the end of the school year. A research project, as well as the study of a Shakespearean play, will be required.
057 AP English: Language and Composition
GRADE 11-12 1 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE AND/OR TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
This course concentrates on the reading and analysis of a variety of discursive prose and the study of the process of writing. Students will study the language of fiction and nonfiction from various fields and periods that will serve as models of effective styles. This course offers a variety of writing assignments calling for the use of different styles or tones. Through such study and practice, students will gain an understanding of the principles of effective writing and become effective writers themselves. The course prepares students for the AP College Board Examination which they are expected to take in May. Students who take the course should enjoy reading and writing, and should be prepared to analyze the different works examined in class.
056 AP English: Literature and Composition
GRADE 11-12 1 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE AND/OR TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
Through the examination of the elements that constitute a particular genre, this course will explore how these devices can and are manipulated to produce various forms within the genre, as well as investigate the similarities and differences between the genres. To achieve this goal, students will intensively study a few representative works from several genres and time periods, concentrating on works of literary merit. It is an intensive reading course where students can expect to write critically about different genres including narratives, poetry, drama and fiction. Students who take the course should enjoy reading and writing. The course prepares students for the AP College Board Examination which they are required to take in May.
Teaching Academy Curriculum Guide Videos.mp4036 Introduction to Teaching
GRADES 11-12 1/2 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ GPA IN HONORS LEVEL ENGLISH OR 92+ IN REGENTS LEVEL ENGLISH TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE WITH TEACHER RECOMMENDATION. 11TH GRADE STUDENTS MUST TAKE AN ADDITIONAL ENGLISH CLASS
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
This first semester course introduces the concepts of teaching at the secondary level. Students will learn how literacy applies to all content areas, and there will be a focus on creating resources to help facilitate learning at the high school. Students will be required to fulfill service hours in the CCHS Literacy Center. This course is open to both juniors and seniors, and it must be taken in conjunction with the second semester course Exploring Teaching as a Profession.
ETAP 201 Exploring Teaching as a Profession (University at Albany)
GRADE 11-12 1/2 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ GPA TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE & MUST EARN AN 85+ IN INTRODUCTION TO TEACHING
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
This second semester course reviews and explores contemporary education with a major focus on the secondary school. There will be an emphasis on concepts in schooling, the changing role of teachers, restructuring schools, the history of education, and teaching as a career. Students will examine theories of teaching and learning for the purpose of challenging assumptions about today’s schools and extending expectations concerning tomorrow’s schools. Students will be required to fulfill service hours at the CCHS Literacy Center. This course is open to both juniors and seniors, and it must be taken in conjunction with the first semester course Introduction to Teaching. Students must earn an 85+ in Introduction to Teaching to qualify for this college course.
suny speech 1.5.23.mp4A COM 203Y Speech Composition and Presentation (University at Albany)
GRADE 11-12 1/2 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ IN PREVIOUS ENGLISH COURSE TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE AND/OR TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
This semester-long course focuses on the introduction to the composition and presentation of speeches. Students will determine the most effective strategies and arrangements for public speaking, as well as develop skills and knowledge to understand and critique oral presentations. This course centers around four types of speeches: introductory, informative, persuasive and motivational.
Introduction to Creative Writing - AENG102.mp4A ENG 102Z Introduction to Creative Writing (University at Albany)
GRADE 11-12 1/2 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ IN PREVIOUS ENGLISH COURSE TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE AND/OR TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
This second semester course is designed to guide students in creative writing through the elements of poetry, fiction and drama. Students will study established and innovative writers throughout the genres, as well as the craft of writing. All students will participate in a variety of activities including reading, writing, discussion and a wide range of exercises that explore the different techniques of writing creatively and assist in the ability to develop exemplary works of poetry, fiction and genre.
030 English 12
GRADE 12 ONLY 1/2 UNIT
This Common Core course is required for all high school seniors who are not taking a full-year UHS or an AP pathway. Students will benefit from an in-depth review of those skills presented in grades 9-11 with an emphasis on using more sophisticated language in speaking and writing. Students will create resumes and compose personal narratives, college essays and cover letters. Students will also practice interview techniques and gain other reading and writing skills essential to success after high school. This is a first semester course only.
ENG121 Reading Literature Curriculum Guide Video.mp4ENG 121 Reading Literature (University at Albany)
GRADE 12 ONLY 1 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ IN PREVIOUS ENGLISH COURSE TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE AND/OR TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
In this course students will critically analyze, interpret and evaluate works of literature from a variety of genres (fiction, non-fiction, drama, short stories, poetry). Ideas, reactions and understandings of the texts will be developed and then demonstrated by oral and written responses to literature. The work in this course will foster the growth of skills necessary to achieve a higher awareness of literature, and the values and connections it has for readers. English 121 is a reading intensive course and all assigned reading must be completed for success. This is a college-based course, where students receive three credits, that must be earned through hard work and dedication.
Journalism.movA JRL 100 Foundations in Journalism (University at Albany)
GRADE 11-12 1/2 UNIT
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
PREREQUISITE: STUDENTS MUST HAVE AN 85+ IN PREVIOUS ENGLISH COURSE TO QUALIFY FOR THIS COURSE AND/OR TEACHER RECOMMENDATION
This course will help students become more informed about media and introduce them to the major issues in journalism. Topics range from how journalism is linked to democracy, to the transformation of journalism in the digital age, and the ethical and legal issues related to news media. In addition, students study and research a human rights issue facing citizens of our world. Throughout the course, students will learn about current events and participate in discussion panels regarding issues facing our society.
News Writing.movA JRL 200Z Introduction to Reporting and News Writing (University at Albany)
GRADE 11-12 1/2 UNIT
PREREQUISITE: A JRL 100 WITH A GRADE OF B OR HIGHER
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
In this introductory workshop- style class, students develop skills of practicing reporters and news writers. They acquire the news judgment that allows them to identify what should be reported and written about, and they learn the fundamental forms of journalistic writing. Students familiarize themselves with journalistic sources and evaluate their reliability. They practice revision and learn about Associated Press style. This is the second semester class.
Career Exploration (CEIP)
478 Career Exploration Internship Program
GRADE 12 1/2 UNIT *This is a Pass/Fail Course
PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Business Communications; completed application; interview with Work-based Learning Coordinator.
*For students in the education, communication, fine arts or performing arts pathways.
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
CCHS Seniors have the opportunity to participate in a 54 hour unpaid internship in an area related to the student's interest in Business through CEIP. This course is designed to help students understand the connection between their high school academic program and the world of work. Topics covered in the course include business etiquette, employability skills, workplace laws and safety regulations. Each student will be required to complete 27 hours of instructional assignments, maintain work journals and submit a final written report. An evaluation of the field performance will be made by a supervising practitioner. Students will need to provide their own transportation. Internships will be supervised and approved by CCHS Work-based Learning Coordinators.
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