1 credit 

Seniors

This course is divided into two independent semesters, both of which further refine students' ability to master the reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills detailed in the common core curriculum. All students are required to pass each semester in order to graduate.  In addition to exposure to various genres of literature, students will be required to successfully complete a research process and participate in public speaking exercises and experiences.

1 credit

This is a full year course designed to provide high school seniors, under the mentorship of faculty or staff members, the opportunity to design individualized projects that may take the form of intensive research on a topic or field of interest, internships with community-based agencies or businesses, or artistic or performance-based projects.  The first semester consists of a General Literature Study and college prep activities.  The second semester consists of the WISE project design and preparation, the WISE experience, and the WISE presentation.  

Video recording course description of English WISE from YHS student

1 high school credit / 6 college credits through Syracuse University

Seniors

Prerequisites: English 11, teacher recommendation

Project Advance is a partnership program linking Syracuse University and secondary schools. It offers college credit for successful completion of (1) a writing studio course, in which students engage in writing activities that help them develop their skills in critical reading, analysis, and argumentation.  The course is organized around a “focused inquiry” and consists of three major units and four major projects, including a library research project and a test-writing unit; (2) a reading and interpretation course in which students “read” a variety of texts, both literary – perhaps Hamlet or even a fairy tale – and non literary – a Nike ad or cartoon.  Students will read complex texts that introduce them to the linguistic theories of Saussure, other applications of structuralism, psychoanalytic theory, post-structural theory, as well as historical and socially constructed critical perspectives.  This course also includes a writing laboratory which meets one additional period per week.  Students are responsible for all college fees associated with the course.  This course parallels two Syracuse University courses:  Syracuse WRT 105 and ETS 142. During the course selection process, students should select English 12.  Students eligible for this course will be notified at a later date.  

1 credit

Seniors

Prerequisite: English 11, teacher recommendation

This advanced placement course concentrates on analysis of complex works of literature and written analysis and evaluation of those works. The course revolves around the theme "Search for Meaning" and includes novels and assorted short stories with intensive work on classical and contemporary poetry. Students refine their critical reading and writing skills, examining the effect of tone, diction, imagery, and syntax. They also explore patterns of structure, rhetorical devices, techniques of characterization, the use of parallels and contrasts, and especially the connotative value of language. Students write expository and argumentative essays, complete creative projects, and learn to discuss literature via the seminar method. These studies in literature and compositions culminate in the Advanced Placement Examination in English Composition and Literature and, based on their score, students may receive college credit, advanced placement, or both. During the course selection process, students should select English 12. Students eligible for this course will be notified at a later date.

1 semester- ½ credit

Open to grades 9-12

Prerequisite: none

This course is designed to be mostly performance based with an emphasis on in-class performance of monologues, improvisations, scenes, and one-act plays in order to understand the nature of the stage and acting. There will be great emphasis placed on understanding theories of acting, analyzing and developing characters, and the audition and rehearsal process. The course will culminate in a production that highlights the students' acting skills. A good attendance record and respect for others are required.  

1 semester - ½ credit

Open to grades 10-12

The Film as Literature  class is designed to show how film is a form of literature ~ by viewing classic and modern films, you will learn that good film, like good literature, has certain elements in common.  In this course, students will explore the following ideas: 

• How do film and literature use common strategies to explore the human experience?

• How does film reflect the beliefs and values of society?

• How does the medium of film engage the audience differently than a written text?

• How is our view of the past shaped by film?

These objectives will be addressed through class discussions, journaling, formal written critiques, and projects. Students will also be given the opportunity to read literature that corresponds with some selected films, sample film critiques and analytical essays, and supporting articles  

1/2 credit per semester

Open to grades: 9-12. 

This course is designed for students who want to write independently.  Students will create their own syllabus and write in the styles in which they choose.  This is an independent class where students go through the entire creative writing process.  Peer tutors and The Writing Center teachers will assist with brainstorming, revising, and editing, but students have complete freedom in the genres and content of the work.  Students must submit a portfolio and a project proposal prior to signing up for the course.  Students are expected to write each day and produce a piece weekly. Writing pieces will be peer-reviewed by the peer tutors in the writing center. Please see members of the English Department for more information.

1 semester - 1/2 credit

Open to grades 9-12

Prerequisite: None, experience with The Voice is helpful

This course is designed for students to investigate the field of journalism, to learn the techniques of news writing and editing, and to gain experience writing news stories, conducting interviews and writing editorials. Students will study techniques of gathering and writing news stories, features, columns and editorials. They will critically analyze the news and editorial styles of local papers and national papers. Students will also be expected to confront and engage the ethical and moral responsibilities of journalism, to understand the basics of news judgment and address the needs of a varied, heterogeneous audience. This course will primarily focus on the nature of news writing, and therefore will mainly engage print journalism.

 I semester - ½ credit

Open to grades 9-12

This course introduces students to various aspects of the elements of theater, mask making, improvisations, costuming, and set and lighting design while studying theater history and various playwrights.  A willingness to perform experimentally in a class setting, a good attendance record, a sense of deadline and using time well, and respect for others are required.  

½ credit

Open to grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of TV Production. This will be illustrated by the compilation of original scripts and a video portfolio that can enhance college applications. Students will perform in all crew positions and demonstrate on-air skills such as interviewing (recorded and live), on-site reporting, ad-libbing, anchoring, and acting. Behind-the-scenes skills such as writing, directing, editing, camera work, and audio work will be explored. Students will produce works that are reviewed and evaluated by faculty and fellow students, maintain a production journal which includes proposals, storyboards, technical issues, and evaluations for each project or assignment. Students will work in a fully equipped TV studio and assist in the production of a periodic show to be broadcast on cable television.

1 semester - ½ credit

Open to grades 9-12

This course is designed to encourage the writing of short stories, plays, poetry, and creative essays. Course structure follows that of college writing workshops which emphasize in-class review and discussion of student writing. As student writing is discussed, basic techniques and principles of the various writing genres are presented. Word processing is encouraged. A final writing product that is ready for publication is emphasized, and participation in Soupstone magazine, writing contests, and outside publications is encouraged.

Open to grades 9, 10, and 11

English Skills provides small group instruction for students who need support in the Common Core skills needed in reading, analysis and writing.  Special emphasis is placed on the skills necessary to succeed on the NY State Regents Common Core ELA exam.