English

100 - English 9: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grade 9

Students will learn skills to successfully transition from middle school to the high school academic environment. Students will broaden their skills in writing, speaking, and research through the study of novels, short stories, poetry, and plays.

• Literature: Romeo & Juliet, a novel, short stories, poetry, and other selected works by the instructor

• Writing: expository essay, formal analysis, grammar, usage, mechanics

• Speaking: informational speech, Socratic seminars, daily discussion

101 - English 9 Honors: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grade 9

This rigorous survey course provides a transition from middle school to a high school academic environment. Students read and analyze short stories by various authors, Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho, and Night Flying Woman by Ignatia Broker. Students improve their vocabulary and develop their grammar, usage, and mechanics skills. The pace is brisk, and a strong work ethic is a must. Students will be expected to complete the reading assignments before the start of this course. More information is available on the WHS website.

107 - English 10: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grade 10

English 10 builds on the foundation of English 9, emphasizing the literary and rhetorical moves that matter in preparing students for the challenges of college-level reading, writing, and discussion. Students will focus on reading closely, valuing evidence, and noticing language choices. In English 10, students will compose analytical essays in response to nonfiction and literary texts.

110 - English 10 Honors: 2 Terms/2 Credits, Grade 10

This is a comprehensive English course that includes reading, writing, and speaking/listening skills for students capable of engaging in accelerated learning. Strong emphasis is placed on reading challenging texts, writing for academic purposes (including persuasion, analysis, and argumentation), and fully participating in a discussion-based approach to learning. Students will read, discuss, and write about literature from various genres, including poetry, drama, short stories, essays, and novels. Students selecting this course should have demonstrated success in prior English courses and be capable of advanced reading and writing. Students will be expected to complete the reading assignments before the start of this course. More information is available on the WHS website.

115 - American Literature: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12

This thoughtful and entertaining class focuses on great American literary works, the authors who created them, and the methods by which they convey the American experience from early America to the present day. Novels are drawn from a list that includes The Great Gatsby, The Catcher in the Rye, The Things They Carried, and 11/22/63. Film studies are incorporated in each unit of study to enhance our exploration of society and culture. In addition, students will read short stories, contemporary essays, non-fiction articles, and poetry. Students will learn approaches to literary analysis and persuasive essay writing and examine literature through various lenses of literary criticism. All readings are placed in a modern context to explain why these great works remain relevant today. Small-group projects are highlights of this academically and socially engaging course.

Student Testimonial:

• "I loved American Lit because the texts were so enjoyable and fun to read. The assignments enhanced the experiences of reading the novels, so the more you put into the class, the more you get out."

128 - The Art of Intercultural Communication: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12

The Art of Intercultural Communication is an interactive English ‘A’ course designed for junior and senior students who seek to develop advanced communication skills that will directly apply to college and career readiness. Students will examine and analyze a broad range of college-level texts and, upon completing the course, will have developed the ability to skillfully participate in issue-driven postsecondary discussions on topics such as culture, race, socioeconomics, gender, identity, and intercultural conflict resolution. Upon completing the course, students will be able to identify common social patterns and cultural differences, feel comfortable using specific language to describe their personal experiences, and engage meaningfully in authentic cross-cultural communication. Additionally, students enrolled in The Art of Intercultural Communication will be able to successfully research, write, and deliver a polished presentation. Students will learn how to effectively assess their own cultural competence and craft a personal essay suitable for college applications. If you are ready to be empowered to view yourself as a global citizen who is equipped to navigate the world, join us in The Art of Intercultural Communication!

139 - Adventure Literature: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12

In Adventure Literature, students embark on an exciting exploration of narratives that push the boundaries of human experience, survival, and imagination. Through reading texts such as Unwind by Neal Shusterman, The Dream-Quest of Vellitt Boe by Kij Johnson, and The Martian by Andy Weir, students will delve into stories of daring journeys, intense challenges, and personal growth. This course encourages critical thinking and thoughtful classroom discussions, where students will analyze themes of adventure, resilience, and the human spirit. Throughout the semester, students will refine their writing skills by crafting both a polished piece of informational writing and a deeply reflective personal essay suitable for college applications. As part of the course, students will explore the art of worldbuilding, learning how to create immersive settings and compelling narratives. They'll be challenged to connect their real-life adventures—whether in travel, personal challenges, or creative pursuits—while documenting them. Additionally, students will develop professional presentation skills, learning how to effectively communicate their ideas and share their work with confidence. By the end of the course, students will have gained both literary insight and practical experience, empowering them to approach adventure in their own lives and express their experiences with clarity and creativity.

Student Testimonial:

• "Adventure Lit. was such a fun class to be involved in. The books and movies we watched made the entire class bond together. I still talk to the friends I made in that class because of how much fun we had! Every single time someone tells me they need to take an English A class, I will always recommend Adventure Literature."

140 - Sports Literature & Expository Writing: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 [Watch Course Video]

Through sports fiction and nonfiction, students will explore the field and its impact on their lives and on our society. Students will complete an in-depth study of at least two works of contemporary sports literature that cover a wide variety of topics: goal setting and perseverance, coaching, performance-enhancing drugs, racism and discrimination, fan behavior, parental involvement, post-high school options, athletes as role models, and gender equity, among others. Assessments will include four formal essays, class discussions, and formal presentations.

Student Testimonial:

• "I really enjoyed Sports Lit because it was a perfect mix of sports topics and learning. The classwork is thorough and interesting. Every day in class was fun and engaging because of the variety of activities and discussions."

145B+145C - AP Seminar: English: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10 -12 [Watch Course Video] [Additional Course Information]

The AP Seminar course is an inquiry-based course that aims to engage students in cross-curricular conversations that explore real-world topics and issues from multiple perspectives. Students are empowered to collect and analyze information with accuracy and precision, thereby crafting and communicating evidence-based arguments. The AP Seminar course is designed around the AP Capstone QUEST Framework and is a part of the AP Capstone Diploma Program. During the course, students complete two performance tasks that contribute to their AP Score. Performance Task 1 includes an Individual Research Report and a Team Argument Presentation. Performance Task 2 includes an Individual Written Argument, an Individual Multimedia Presentation, and an oral defense. AP Seminar students also take a two-part end-of-course exam in May.

Student Testimonials:

• "While taking AP seminar, I have learned so much about my academic skills as well as leadership, teamwork, and patience, which are traits that I have taken to every aspect of my life! Through the various individual and team assignments involving research, you will gain a wide range of knowledge and life skills."

• "At first, I was hesitant to take AP Seminar. It was my first AP course, and it seemed like a lot of work. Looking back, though, I’m glad I ended up taking it. AP Seminar is a great opportunity for students to develop their writing skills. I noticed a significant improvement in my writing from the beginning of the course to the end."

• "AP Seminar was a fun class, and it was also a big help to my writing. Going into that class, I struggled with writing, especially with research papers, but this class focused on that, and as a result, I have greatly improved my skills." 

• "The skills that you get from AP Seminar are ones that can easily be applied to other classes. Every assignment you get is relevant to your success in the course and on the exam. While the class will challenge you, I never felt particularly overwhelmed. Overall, I found AP Seminar very valuable, and I recommend it to all students who are interested in taking an AP English course."

167 - The Graphic Novel: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12

In this course, we read and analyze graphic novels, a rich form of artistic and narrative expression with a history stretching back hundreds—if not thousands—of years. Boldly combining images and text, graphic novels of recent years have explored issues often considered the domain of “serious” literature.  We read a selection of graphic novels covering a wide range of genres and themes. We study the terminology and fundamental elements of the medium and identify the use of traditional literary elements. We learn how the medium can be used to improve our visual literacy skills while developing our reading, writing, viewing, speaking, and listening skills. To wrap up the course, we will apply all our learning by writing and illustrating a graphic novel of our own.

194 - Composition for College: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12

This course is an introductory college composition course that allows students to practice their writing skills alongside the formal use of grammar. As students write a number of essays throughout the semester, they will apply traditional grammar instruction to their writing. Since students will be called on to write in a variety of situations, both in and after high school, writing well is crucial for their success. This class is especially prepared for college writing. Students will focus on generating ideas with depth and organizing them in a clearly structured form. To further aid the clear expression of ideas, students will receive instruction in identifying parts of speech and sentence components, classifying phrases and clauses, proper mechanics, and special problems of usage. In addition to frequent reading and writing activities, students may write a personal essay, a persuasive essay, a compare/contrast essay, a research-based essay, and a critical analysis essay. All of this work will be done in a community for writers who share their work and give and receive feedback through a writer’s workshop. Students will take each essay through all stages of the writing process and revise the essays multiple times.

Student Testimonials:

• "Composition for College is a course that delves into the nuances of grammar in an easily approachable manner. Before I took this class, I despised the “drill and kill” style of grammar teaching I was used to. However, I decided to take the course despite my reservations. The subject matter is occasionally challenging, but the benefits of learning the lessons in this class far outweigh any difficulties." 

• " took the ACT towards the end of the class, and I found that I understood the grammar principles that I was being tested on in the English section. Not only is the class a great preparation for the English ACT, but it has also greatly boosted my confidence when writing college admissions essays." 

199 - AP English Language and Composition: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12  

This rigorous course is modeled after common first-year university composition courses that lay the groundwork for future college-level thinking and writing. It is a great opportunity for students who have consistently been successful writing for other courses, who have demonstrated mastery of basic conventions of writing, and who wish to challenge themselves further by studying how the features of rhetoric and style function in a variety of nonfiction tests, both written and visual (as in advertising, political cartoons, documentary, etc.), and then applying that study to their own work. Students in this course will read and write in various rhetorical modes, with a special emphasis on argument and persuasion. Students will engage in extended close reading and rich analysis and discussion of how an author’s purposes, choice of subject matter, audience, expectations, and use of conventions and language resources contribute to the text's effectiveness. Students will be expected to complete the readings before the start of this course. More information is available on the WHS website.

Student Testimonial:

• "The writing and communication skills gained by taking Lang are ubiquitously applicable in many real-world tasks like composing an essay for a college application or pitching a new idea for an iPhone application. My experience in Lang was overwhelmingly positive. It transformed how I read and understand others’ arguments, as well as the way I create and structure my own. Most importantly, Lang helped me discover and hone the persuasive elements of my writing voice. Lang has made me a better communicator and, ultimately, a more logical and knowledgeable person."

9992A + 9992B - Compass Graphic Communications (Compass College Composition [English A] + Compass AI for Graphic Design 2) - 2 Terms / 4 credits, Grades 11-12

Prerequisite recommended: Marketing 1: Fundamentals, AI for Graphic Design 1, or Graphic Design 1

Compass Graphic Communications is a two-term, interdisciplinary course that integrates college-level composition with advanced graphic design. Scheduled for two blocks per day and earning four WHS credits, this course fulfills an English “A” WPS graduation requirement and offers students the opportunity to earn three college credits through concurrent enrollment in “ART2910: Graphic Design Tools 1” at North Hennepin Community College, transferable to many colleges and universities nationwide.

This co-taught, project-based course emphasizes clear communication through writing, speaking, and visual design. Students engage in research-based and informational projects that develop skills in organization, audience awareness, feedback, and professional presentation. Instruction includes focused study of Standard American English and the influence of language on place, with attention to the Dakota and Anishinaabe people of Minnesota.

Through hands-on design experiences, students explore creative problem-solving and visual communication using industry-standard tools such as the Adobe Creative Suite. Projects include interactive, graphic, and product design work, often developed in collaboration with local businesses. These authentic partnerships allow students to plan, design, and implement real-world solutions while building technical skills, communication confidence, and a personal creative brand.

Student Testimonial:

• "Compass is an amazing course to take because it’s so personalized to you. You have the opportunity to create your own professional logo, illustrate/write a children’s story, and more!”

117 - World Literature & Humanities: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12

World Literature students will experience great literature from around the world. Areas studied will include, but not be limited to, Africa, Central and South America, India, China, Japan, and Afghanistan. Students will look at the cultural, political, and religious influences on the literature we read. Through our study, we will celebrate cultural differences and discover those elements of life and thought that transcend cultural boundaries and are universally human. All students read The Kite Runner, Things Fall Apart, and In the Time of the Butterflies, as well as a variety of short stories, plays, and poetry from the class textbook, and selections chosen by the instructor. Students are given the opportunity for an independent reading project, allowing them to study an area of the world and themes that interest them. Writing components include journal writing, essay writing, research, documentation, and literary analysis. Speech components include discussions and individual and group presentations.

127 - Short Fiction: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12

The goal of this class is to foster strong reading habits by developing reading stamina, enhancing reading comprehension, and cultivating appreciation for literature. Short Fiction students will read high-interest materials, engage in class activities, and receive clear instruction in a supportive and structured environment. We will read, watch, listen to, and discuss stories about topical, sometimes controversial issues that are thematically relevant to high school students. In the process, students will assemble a toolkit to improve their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Class texts include My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite, American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang, and Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro. Supplementary texts will include nonfiction articles, films, and other writings. The class relies heavily on discussion that encourages reflection and making real-life connections to the stories and novels we read. Individual and group presentations appear in each unit. Writing components include reflective writing, creative narratives, and literary analysis. 

Student Testimonial:

• “Short Fiction is much more than an English course. It’s a class that addresses real-world problems while allowing students to delve deep into their realms of thought and creativity. I truly looked forward to Short Fiction every day.”

132 - The Literature of Film: A Critical Analysis: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 [Watch Course Video]

We study various genres and styles of film, including several of Hollywood’s finest classics (e.g., Casablanca, Citizen Kane, Gladiator, Rear Window, Singin’ in the Rain, and many more), with an emphasis on the classic Hollywood Style of filmmaking in order to examine narrative elements and structures. Film eras range from the 1920s through today. Students will have the opportunity to engage in Socratic seminars, informal discussions, narrative and literary analysis writing, and a film project, all designed to develop and enhance critical and interpretive skills. This course also relies on published articles to broaden our understanding of content and critically examine various viewpoints. Film students will be well prepared to write analytically beyond high school and to build discussion skills. After this course, you will have a new perspective on the power of film. If you love viewing and discussing movies, then this is the course for you!

Student Testimonial:

• “Film is amazing because the material is different...It’s really great because movies can be analyzed just like your favorite book. Every camera shot has a purpose just like every sentence in a story.”

141 - Science Fiction & Fantasy Literature: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video] 

This course covers the origin and development of Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature. We evaluate prevalent themes and ideas in the literature by studying short stories and novels, films, television, and teleplays. Literature selections range from fantasy throughout history and across cultures to the subgenres of Hard Science Fiction, Soft Science Fiction, and Social Science Fiction. Titles of study include various canonized short stories by Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury, Tom Godwin, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Daniel Keyes, Fritz Leiber, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Richard Matheson, and Kurt Vonnegut; drama including The Tempest (Shakespeare); media including Big Fish, The Day the Earth Stood Still, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Metropolis, Star Trek: The Original Series, and The Twilight Zone; and novels including Brave New World (Huxley), Childhood’s End (Clarke), The Invisible Man (Wells), and A Wizard of Earthsea (Le Guin). Writing assignments require students to identify, analyze, and discuss major themes with an emphasis on analytical reviews that examine the genre’s various forms in our society. Evaluations are administered through tests, quizzes, projects, and writing assignments. Teaching methods include direct instruction and Constructivist assignments. Writing components include guided practice in expository essay writing, research and documentation, and creative writing.

Student Testimonial:

• “I was surprised by the positive impact this class had on me. I went in thinking it was the most obvious English choice because I prefer math and computer science to liberal arts, but I left knowing more about humanity and the world around me. These stories may use either science or magic, but they are really about the human condition.”

151 - Mythology: 2 Terms/2 Credits, Grades 10-12

This class is ideal for those who enjoy mythology in general, plan to pursue advanced English courses at WHS, and/or intend to pursue liberal arts studies after high school. Our focus will be on ancient Greek and Roman myths and legends – especially the Iliad – but we will also examine the stories of other cultures around the world. Throughout the semester, we will trace the universal need to understand creation, life and death, natural phenomena, and rules for living a “good” life. We will also learn about some of the gods, heroes, and monsters of both Western and non-Western cultures. Grades will be based on tests, presentations, essays, and projects. Major texts include Hesiod’s Theogony, Homer’s Iliad, and Hamilton’s Mythology. Writing components include direct instruction and guided practice in literary analysis, research, and documentation, as well as creative writing.

Student Testimonials:

• “The comprehension and writing skills taught in Mythology prepared me for post-secondary education and life in general. I learned how to manage my time, how to write better, and how to truly study something infinitely valuable in college.” 

• “I came into this class with little or no information about mythology. I learned that not only is mythology extremely cool, but I have a new appreciation for cultural norms, how to question what we consider normal, and to always be curious and dig deeper.”

165 - Philosophy in Literature: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]

What does it mean to be human? Why are we here? How should we live? These questions are fundamental to both philosophy and literature. If you, too, find yourself wondering about big questions, join us; you’ll be in good company. Socrates, Sartre, Kurt Vonnegut, Buddhist monks, and NBC’s hit show, The Good Place, all entertain these questions about humanity. Our world is constantly presenting us with new ways to consider and grapple with these questions, and this course provides a space for you to explore where your own ideas take you. This course explores fundamental philosophical topics across a range of literary and philosophical texts. In this course, students engage in thoughtful discussions and reflections every day, growing as readers, thinkers, and writers through a variety of written, spoken, and creative works throughout the semester. 

Student Testimonials:

• "I really enjoyed the existentialist unit, as well as the unit on knowledge and reality. One of the things I enjoyed most was the variety of learning methods we used. It was really cool because each day was something completely different; I was always surprised by the activities of the day." 

• "I loved all the discussions. Regardless of people’s views, these were some of the most interesting conversations I've had." 

• "I think it is really applicable to life. It definitely helped me develop better critical thinking skills and worked a side of my brain that sometimes gets lost in the swing of things."

• "I thought that the discussion environment was very inclusive. At the start of the semester, I had no idea what I was talking about, but by the end, I had a better idea of my own beliefs."

166 - AP English Literature & Composition: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 [Watch Course Video] 

This is a challenging and enriching course with a seminar approach that encourages critical and open discussion of ideas. Students read a variety of novels, plays, and poetry, both modern and classic, that are frequently featured on the AP exam and that will prepare students for success in college work. Close reading, analytical writing, and discussion are emphasized. Major texts may include Slaughterhouse-Five, Oedipus the King, Hamlet, Jane Eyre, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Metamorphosis, The Old Man and the Sea, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Beloved, The Color Purple, Invisible Man, Their Eyes Were Watching God, The Underground Railroad, Obasan, The Sentence, and Ceremony. Students will be expected to complete the readings before the start of this course. More information is available on the WHS website.

192 - Creative Writing: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 [Watch Course Video] 

This class is for storytellers, for all creative-minded and curious students who look at the world and wonder what if. Together, we explore different genres, writing fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and screenplays, examining the distinct qualities of each. Throughout all genres, we look at style and peel back the layers to examine what makes great stories great. Students will study genre, literary elements, structure, form, and style through model texts, then create their own original writing to demonstrate those same skills. Students are also guided through the process of submitting their original work for professional publication. Since the writing process isn’t always solitary, students will engage in writing workshops throughout the semester where we learn to give and receive meaningful, constructive feedback. The course ends with students creating a capstone final piece and reflection, in which they demonstrate and reflect on their growth as writers. This will be run as a hybrid course to accommodate personal writing space and time for writing conferences.

Student Testimonials:

• "I'd recommend taking Creative Writing, even if you don’t want to be a writer, because the critical thinking and creativity required are applicable in many aspects of life. Plus, it’s super fun." 

• "Creative writing is amazing because it allows you to refine your craft when it comes to both creative writing and essay writing. It’s also super fun because the community of the class is welcoming and open."

198 - British Literature: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]

In this course, you will experience great literature from the British Isles. We will study novels, plays, films, short stories, and poetry as we explore the social and political effects of each time period on literature, reading, and discovering how these stories and themes still connect with us today. All students read The Hobbit, Beowulf, Macbeth, Frankenstein, selections from Sherlock Holmes and other mystery and detective works, and The Importance of Being Earnest. You are also given the opportunity for a literature circle reading project that allows you to study a text and a time period that interests you. Writing components include journal writing, research, documentation, literary analysis, and creative writing. Speech components include discussion and individual and group presentations.

Student Testimonials:

• "Throughout the course, I learned the value of creativity and collaboration with peers through group projects and day-to-day assignments. This course is all about those moments when students, like me, need a gentle reminder to just have fun and take a deep breath." 

• “British Literature taught me to think from different perspectives and from different time periods, from units such as the Gothic and Romantic eras and the Culture Jam project.” “I really enjoyed reading the books in British Literature, and this class influenced me to read more!”

049 - Academic Mentor: Writing Exploration Center (WEC, Student Writing Tutor): 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 11-12

[Consider becoming an Academic Mentor! video]

Prerequisites: Academic Mentor: Foundations of Leadership

Help peers with writing and coaching while gaining leadership experience. Mentors staffing the WEC before or after school will be eligible for late arrival/early dismissal in accordance with their schedule.

152 - The World of Cinema: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]

From American blockbusters to International gems, from those characters we’ll never forget to the directors who are redefining the craft, this class has it all. The World of Cinema examines the changing landscape of visual media through the historical, cultural, and theoretical topics reflected in a diverse offering of cinematic works from around the world. Specific areas of study include international films, influential female directors and their films, protagonists in films from traditionally underrepresented groups, film critique through diverse lenses, the real-life inspirations behind the most popular and influential films, and the new cinematic applications to social media, web series, and streaming services. This class will be an enjoyable and engaging experience for a variety of interests: those who enjoy visual media in any form, those who are curious about films and directors from around the world, and those interested in pursuing film study as a career.

Student Testimonials:

• "I really liked the World of Cinema class because I feel it helped broaden my knowledge of film elements as well as different genres and types. I especially loved the exposure to foreign movies, since we don’t often see them. I appreciated the opportunity to show what we learned and share our creativity! I would definitely recommend this class to everyone, especially those interested in the film industry." 

• "World of Cinema taught me *how* to watch movies. I never viewed the movie-watching process as anything more than turning on the TV and getting cozy. Now, I can look at movies on a deeper level, truly understand their purpose, and appreciate the significance of every aspect of a film, as well as its literary merit. World of Cinema also introduced me to a number of classic films that changed the course of cinema and taught me the intricate history of movie-making."

156 - Poetry: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]

This course explores the many ways poetry exists in our world. Whether you’re already an expert or someone who just likes poetry but can’t necessarily explain why, this course is for you. As we examine different forms and styles of poetry, ranging from sonnets to odes to rap lyrics and everything in between, we will discuss how poems create meaning through language and imagery, and what makes the good ones stick with us. Students will study both traditional and contemporary poetry from a variety of sources and will have regular opportunities to write and revise their own poems. The final assessment for this course is a student-created portfolio project.

Student Testimonial:

• "I loved this entire class, and I would take it again in a heartbeat."

168 - Top 20 Strategies 9/10: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-10 [Watch Course Video] 

Life as a teenager in today’s world is often stressful and overwhelming. This course focuses on social-emotional learning by guiding students to learn, practice, and reflect on strategies for managing stress, negativity, self-esteem, anxiety, peer pressure, and difficult situations. Students ultimately strive to develop their emotional quotient to make a positive difference in their own lives and in the lives of others. This one-of-a-kind course guides students through three essential strategies for self-awareness: thinking, learning, and communicating. The goal of this course is to increase the likelihood that students will be empowered to reach their full potential and achieve greater success in high school and beyond.

Some topics covered include:

• Thinking effectively: expanding your comfort zone; monitoring your own moods and attitudes; developing your emotional intelligence; and awareness of other people’s opinions.

• Learning strategies: listening, getting organized, goal-setting, eliminating distractions, and developing study skills.

• Communicating well with others: non-verbal’s; getting along with family, friends, and strangers; conflict resolution; learning how to get help when necessary.

Student Testimonials:

• "I really enjoyed being in the Top 20 and learning about how to be on top of your game. I enjoyed coming into class and listening to and watching the TED talks; they were very interesting and sometimes emotional. There was one unit called “Start by Making Your Bed,” and that unit has completely changed my life. I used to never make my bed because I would think to myself, “Why would I make my bed when I’m going to go back to sleep after I come back?” However, as we learned, making your bed can make a huge difference in your life. I decided to start making my bed. At first, it was a bit of a struggle to get into the habit, but as time went on, I grew accustomed to it. Going home to a clean room and a made bed definitely has an effect on one’s mental health. Since then, no matter how late I am, I make my bed before leaving." 

• "The course really teaches you how to be a positive person and always stay on top of your things. It teaches you how to communicate with your peers and make new connections."

169 - Detective Stories, Suspense, & the Anti-Hero: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 11-12 [Watch Course Video]

Who dunnit?! Get ready to investigate a few crime scenes, meet anti-heroes, and unreliable protagonists. Step into the world of Sherlock Holmes, Agatha Christie, V for Vendetta, and many more. We will compare the original Holmes to the BBC’s “Sherlock” and ABC’s “Elementary” to analyze how classic tales are modernized for today’s audiences. Within the term, we will also view a variety of detective/crime films. Join and piece together clues along with our anti-hero protagonists. From Sherlock to Annalise Keating to V - they aren’t villains, but they aren’t heroes either.

170 - Villains in Literature & Film: Modern Monsters: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 11-12 [Watch Course Video]

This course will examine the darker side of literature. Who are the monsters lurking in the city, or within the people around us? We will read classics and contemporary works of fiction that may entertain us while also allowing us to examine our own fears and those of society. Strong protagonists that can defeat these monsters will also arise and win our admiration. Texts and films may include selections from Dracula, tales from Edgar Allen Poe, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, The Walking Dead, and Interview with a Vampire. Students will also explore a selection of horror/suspense films featuring the villain.

Student Testimonial:

• "I absolutely loved this class; I could even argue that it’s the best elective offered at WHS. It made me fall in love with the style of literature and film that we explored. After we read part of Dracula, I went and bought the book and read the rest of it outside of class. We read the comics and watched the first episode of The Walking Dead, and now I’m on season 7. I truly loved this class!"

171 - Storytelling with Podcasts: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12

In an increasingly digital age, podcasts have become a popular method of storytelling. Whether listening in our cars, while preparing a meal, or as we settle in for a good night’s sleep, we have never had so many narratives at our fingertips, whenever and wherever we want. This course will examine the success of the current podcast series while tracing the accomplishments of radio serials that helped create the genre. After exploring the craft of podcast storytelling, students will create a mini-series examining a thematic concept of their own choosing and share the production with others. 

177 - Journalism 1: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of journalism, designed for students interested in understanding the role of media in society and developing practical skills in reporting, writing, and production. Through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on projects, and real-world application, students will learn the core principles and practices of ethical journalism.

178 - Journalism 2: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12

This advanced journalism course is designed for students with a foundational understanding of journalism who wish to take on leadership and production roles in school media. Students will serve as staff writers and editors for the Trojan Tribune, taking primary responsibility for content planning, reporting, writing, design, and publication. A significant focus will be placed on real-world editorial responsibilities, including managing deadlines, fact-checking, ethical decision-making, staff management, and providing constructive feedback to peers. 

180 - Mastering Grammar: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12

In today's world, effective communication is crucial, making it essential to master both how you express your thoughts and what you have to say. This course focuses on traditional grammar, starting from the basics and progressing to the level of proficiency expected by colleges. Special emphasis will be placed on addressing common usage issues found in student writing. Throughout the course, students will explore topics that prepare them for the English section of the ACT, the Reading section of the SAT, and other college placement tests. Please note that this is not a composition class. Students can expect to review fundamental grammar concepts while developing their proficiency as grammarians.

184 - Public Speaking 1: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12

Students will be introduced to the world of public speaking, including delivery, audience, and the essentials of speaking. Types of speeches will include informative, special event, persuasive, and performance. Delivery goals will include projection, enunciation, body language, and tone. Students will be required to deliver each speech to a classroom of their peers. Study and critique of famous speeches, as well as student speeches, will be a necessary component of the class.

Student Testimonials:

• "The Intro To Public Speaking class is one of the most important classes I have taken so far, and I think in the end one of the most important I will have taken, in my high school career here at Wayzata High School. Public speaking can be a daunting undertaking and one that everyone will (most likely) experience at least once in their lives, both during and after high school. This class will prepare you well for these scenarios by tasking you with researching/writing various forms of speeches that you must present in front of the class and teacher. I highly recommend taking this course to all students at some point in their high school career." 

• “I loved Intro to Public Speaking! It not only helped me improve my ability to speak in front of an attentive audience; it also gave me the confidence and skills I needed for real-world interactions!”

185 - Public Speaking 2: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12

Prerequisite: Public Speaking 1

Students will move beyond the basics of public speaking into more advanced forms of speaking and speech analysis. Types of speeches will include analytical, extemporaneous, debate, and duo speaking. Delivery goals will include movement, hand gestures, and memorization. Students will be required to deliver each speech to their peers in a classroom. Critiques of famous speeches, as well as student speeches, will be a necessary component of the class.

Student Testimonial:

• “Public Speaking was such a fun way to improve my speaking abilities and boost my confidence with speaking in front of my peers!”

186 - Comedy Writing: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12

For those who enjoy comedy — whether it’s stand-up, sketch, parody, or satire — this course is an opportunity to write some of your own. We will examine some of the most influential American comedies from the last few decades, identifying the common threads and trying to answer the age-old question: what makes something “funny?” Students will write pieces based on personal experiences, satirize the world around them, and create parody sketches. The course will culminate in an individual piece of the student’s choice, with opportunities to publish, perform, or film. Students enrolled in Comedy Writing must be willing to take risks in their writing and work respectfully with others.

187 - Professional Communication: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12

In an era where information is at your fingertips, the most valuable skill you can possess is the ability to communicate with purpose, authenticity, and impact. Professional Communication is a rigorous, future-focused elective designed to bridge the gap between high school and the global professional landscape. Moving beyond traditional "search engine" answers, this course dives into the why behind human connection, challenging you to master the nuances of verbal and nonverbal messaging, active listening, and perspective-taking. 

This course is built for the "digital native," integrating the Portrait of a Wayzata Graduate ideals (concepts such as Communication, Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Resilience, and Inclusion) into every unit. You will explore how "professionalism" is a dynamic concept that shifts across cultures and industries and learn how to adapt your personal style to meet the demands of diverse workplace environments.

If you are ready to take healthy risks and develop a goal-directed skill set that transcends the classroom, this course will provide the tools to navigate your future with confidence. 

189 - Debate: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12

Geared for students just beginning debate, this course will center its study and practice around effective argumentation. Students will learn the fundamentals of constructing arguments, evaluating sources, formulating counterclaims, and presenting their ideas effectively. Writing components include guided practice in research and documentation. Students interested in joining the Debate Team and those seeking to improve their persuasive and argumentative skills are encouraged to register.

990 - College Reading: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 11-12 [Watch Course Video]

College Reading is designed to strengthen essential thinking, reading, and English skills in order to improve student performance on the English and Reading portions of the ACT, in your core classes, and throughout your lifetime. Active participation in class should lead to greater reading confidence and higher ACT scores, enabling you to meet more personal, academic, and career goals.