English

Grade 9

English 1 introduces students to high school literary study through novels, drama, poetry, essays, and articles. Students develop close-reading and analytical skills while learning to construct literary and argumentative essays supported by textual evidence. Vocabulary, grammar, literary devices, and the writing process are emphasized throughout the course.

English 1 Honors provides a challenging introduction to literary analysis for students ready to engage with texts in a more sophisticated and independent manner. Students explore additional literary works and advanced literary techniques while developing deeper analytical skills, originality of thought, and an understanding of how authors create meaning.

Freshman Literature Strategies provides additional reading and writing support to help students meet the demands of high school English. Students receive opportunities to workshop and revise their writing, strengthen organization and clarity, develop effective reading practices, and build confidence as independent readers and writers.

Grade 10

English 2 strengthens students' close-reading, literary analysis, and essay-writing skills through the study of plot, theme, character development, and literary elements. Students demonstrate their understanding through analytical and creative writing, research, discussion, and other extended assignments.

English 2 Honors provides a rigorous exploration of complex literature with an emphasis on close analysis, sophisticated expression, and original thought. Through challenging texts, intensive discussion, and frequent writing, students develop greater independence while strengthening high-level reading comprehension and analytical skills.

Grade 11

American Literature explores classic American literature within its historical and cultural contexts. Students examine the voices and influences that have shaped American writing while strengthening vocabulary, literary analysis, and precision in written and oral expression.

American Literature and Analysis Honors offers an intensive study of American literature across genres and historical periods. Students move beyond plot to examine literary works through sophisticated analysis while developing the college-level critical-thinking skills needed for advanced English study.

AP English Language and Composition provides college-level study of language, rhetoric, and argument. Students analyze nonfiction and prose from a variety of periods and disciplines while examining the relationships among an author's purpose, audience, subject, style, and use of language. Extensive reading and writing prepare students for the AP English Language and Composition Exam.

AP English Language Strategies provides additional small-group support for students enrolled in AP English Language and Composition. Through pre-teaching, reinforcement, and individualized instruction, students strengthen the reading, writing, and analytical skills needed to succeed in the AP course and prepare for the AP examination.

Grade 12

Roslyn seniors may choose among several English pathways, including AP English Literature and Composition, Contemporary Literature Honors, or a College Literature Honors program that combines a fall literature course with a spring literature elective.

College Literature Honors provides a college-preparatory study of classic and contemporary fiction, nonfiction, drama, and poetry. Students refine their comprehension, analytical, and literary appreciation skills while devoting significant attention to the writing process.

College Literature Honors: The Short Story examines the short story as an evolving literary form through contemporary works as well as stories by established masters of the genre. Students encounter a broad range of literature while developing a deeper understanding of storytelling and the world around them.

Contemporary Literature Honors explores literature published from 2000 to the present, using contemporary fiction to examine current topics, literary techniques, and complex ideas. Seminar discussions and analytical writing help students strengthen the skills needed for college-level English while connecting contemporary works to their previous literary studies.

AP English Literature and Composition provides college-level study of literature across major genres. Students closely examine structure, style, theme, and meaning through intensive reading, discussion, poetry analysis, and writing. The course prepares students for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam.

Electives

Roslyn High School's English electives allow students to pursue individual interests while developing skills in writing, communication, research, media literacy, and literary analysis. Students can explore subjects ranging from creative writing and journalism to film, psychology, public speaking, and independent humanities research.

Creative Writing gives students the opportunity to develop their own fiction and poetry while studying the choices successful writers make. Through reading, discussion, and writing workshops, students explore storytelling, audience, structure, and the craft of creating original work.

Film and Literature examines visual and written storytelling through classic and contemporary films and related literary works. Students analyze elements including visual construction, lighting, music, sound, pacing, historical context, archetypes, and the ethical and moral questions raised by stories.

Journalism 1: New Media Communications introduces students to journalism and communication in the digital age through hands-on experience in reporting, writing, editing, design, and publication. Students learn Associated Press style, media ethics, digital publishing, and teamwork while using newspaper production as a vehicle for developing real-world journalism skills.

Psychology in Literature combines literary analysis with an introduction to psychological concepts. Students examine novels, plays, short stories, and films through a psychological lens, developing a deeper understanding of both literature and human behavior.

Public Speaking: Owning the Crowd helps students develop the confidence and skills to communicate effectively before an audience. Through the study of contemporary presentations, including TED Talks, students explore vocal delivery, physical presence, eye contact, organization, tone, audience awareness, and other elements of effective public speaking.

Independent Humanities Research allows students to pursue an area of personal interest in literature or the humanities through independent scholarly or creative work. With the guidance of an advisor, students may produce an original research paper or pursue creative projects in areas such as fiction, drama, poetry, screenwriting, songwriting, film, or nonfiction.

College Preparatory Strategies for SAT/ACT Exams helps students develop the verbal and mathematical reasoning skills and test-taking strategies needed for the SAT and ACT. The course also addresses time management, stress management, and targeted skills review.