Recommended for 9th grade

101 FRESHMAN ENGLISH 9 A1 (sem.1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed for the student with above-average ability who may eventually apply to colleges and universities that have very competitive admissions standards. It includes transitional activities to help the student adjust to the demands of high school. To meet academic challenges, the student works on listening, note-taking, and test-taking skills. To improve self-expression, the student refines skills in grammar, usage, and vocabulary. Through written work, oral projects, and class discussions, the student develops logical, critical, creative, and independent thinking as well as a sense of audience. The student explores various forms of literature through a thematic approach, including the short story, novel, drama, and the media. The student analyzes literature from various perspectives, including authors’ techniques and purposes as well as readers’ perceptions. The student reads assigned novels and other works that generate class discussions and provide material for compositions. 

102 FRESHMAN ENGLISH 9 A2 (sem. 2)

During this half-year (0.5 credit) college-oriented course, the student continues the study of writing, 

104 FRESHMAN ENGLISH 9 B1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-preparatory course begins with transitional activities that acclimate the student to a high school environment. Note-taking, test-taking, and listening skills are reinforced and taught at the high school level. Included in the course content are supplemental readings, grammar, spelling, and vocabulary as well as sentence, paragraph, and essay revision. The students study the short story, novel, drama, epic, and media following a thematic approach. Comprehension is stressed through reading, oral discussion, and written compositions. 

105 FRESHMAN ENGLISH 9 B2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-preparatory course continues the study of grammar, writing, media, vocabulary, and literature from semester 1.

107 FRESHMAN ENGLISH 9 C1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed for the student who needs a structured review of basic language skills. To enable the student to make a smooth transition into a high school setting, this course emphasizes organization, note taking, test taking, and listening skills. To improve written expression, students will study basic grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and paragraph structure. Using a thematic

approach, literature and other media selections help promote thinking, writing, and discussion skills. Students will also be involved in activity based learning, making connections between their lives and the communities around them. 

108 FRESHMAN ENGLISH 9 C2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course continues to study grammar, spelling, vocabulary, writing, and literature. the course further explores broader connections to the community. 

115 EXPLORATION IN LANGUAGE ARTS 1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course requires students to review basic language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, spelling, and vocabulary. To enable the student to make a smooth transition into a high school setting, organization, note-taking, test-taking, and listening skills are emphasized. Written expression includes spelling, vocabulary, paragraph writing, and grammar. A thematic approach offers literature and other media selections to promote thinking, writing, and discussion skills. Activities are designed to increase self knowledge in an effort to help the student develop better awareness of personal strengths and how these strengths can eventually carry over into one’s personal life and in the workplace.

This course is designed for students who encounter difficulty in learning through normal classroom  methods. Teachers stress multi-sensory and individualized instructional practices. Supplementary instruction may be available from special educators in classrooms as well as resource rooms.

PRE-REQUISITE: Permission required from the Director of Special Education. 

116 EXPLORATION IN LANGUAGE ARTS 1 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course continues the course of study started in the first semester.

PRE-REQUISITE: Permission required from the Director of Special Education. 

Open to Grades 9th – 12th

ENGLISH TO SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES

The ESOL Program is designed to help those students whose native language is not English and who cannot successfully compete with their English-speaking peers in mainstream classes, especially English classes. It is an individualized program whose intent is to make those students ready for mainstream courses within two years. The program includes ESOL Levels 1-4, English Language Development (a tutorial study hall) and monitor status (for those exited from the formal program). The ESOL Coordinator and guidance counselors determine eligibility for the program. For more information, contact the ESOL Coordinator or the Guidance Department. 

Recommended for 10th Grade 

121 INTERMEDIATE COMPOSITION 10 A1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college oriented course emphasizes writing, evaluation through conferencing, and revision. A continued study of grammar, particularly in relationship to usage and mechanics, focuses on improving and varying the student’s style of writing. Paragraph skills are reviewed, and the importance of thesis, coherence, and specific development in written work is stressed. A variety of independent readings provides materials for literary response and analytical writing. The study of vocabulary and PSAT preparation are integral parts of the course. 

122 STUDIES IN LITERARY GENRES 10 A2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college oriented course is designed to continue the introduction to the literary genres begun in the freshman year. A variety of authors are used for an intensive study of poetry; biography; drama, particularly Shakespeare; and the novel. There is an emphasis on literary response, analytical writing, and creative projects related to the study of world literature. Vocabulary study, knowledge of literary terminology, PSAT/SAT preparation, and independent reading are integral parts of the course. 

124 COMPOSITION 10 B1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college preparatory course emphasizes writing, evaluation, and revision. Sentence structure, usage, and mechanics are stressed. The student incorporates sentence variety, punctuation, spelling, and vocabulary in writing. Through the writing process, the student develops essays. The development of a thesis statement is introduced. Selected writing assignments relate to the study of mythology and other supplementary reading. 

125 WORLD LITERATURE 10 B2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college preparatory course involves the study of various literary forms of world literature, the short story, novel, drama, essay, biography, poem. To develop an appreciation of literature, the student participates in discussion and analysis of literary works. Vocabulary, reading comprehension, literary response, and writing assignments related to the literature are also emphasized. In addition, an awareness of the impact of various media is introduced. 

127 COMPOSITION SKILLS 10 C1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course emphasizes the writing process: prewriting, conferencing, revising, and editing. Focusing on a topic and using specific details to develop ideas are stressed. In addition, students improve their sentence structure, usage, and mechanics through their writing. Additionally, students expand their vocabulary and improve their spelling skills. An awareness of the impact of various media is introduced. Finally, selected writing assignments relate to supplementary reading. 

128 FORMS OF LITERATURE 10 C2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course introduces non fiction and reviews the following fiction genres: short story, poetry, novel, and drama. Students learn to recognize the forms of literature and writers’ different approaches. Students continue to develop writing, speaking and listening skills through compositions and discussions about literature. This course also focuses on vocabulary, reading comprehension, literary response, and study skills. 

135 EXPLORATION IN LANGUAGE ARTS 2 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course emphasizes the writing process: prewriting, conferencing, revising, and editing. Focusing on a single topic and using specific details to develop a topic are stressed. Students improve their sentence structure, usage and mechanics through their writing, advancing from paragraphs to full-length essays. Additionally, students expand their vocabulary and improve their spelling skills.

Finally, selected writing assignments relate to supplementary reading. This course is designed for students who encounter difficulty in learning through normal classroom methods. Teachers stress individualized instructional practices.

PRE-REQUISITE: Permission required from the Director of Special Education. 

136 EXPLORATION IN LANGUAGE ARTS 2 (sem. 2)

This second semester half-year (0.5 credit) course introduces non-fiction, short-story, poetry, the novel and drama, and students learn to recognize these different forms of literature. Students continue to develop writing, speaking, and listening skills through responses, essays and discussions about literature. Students continue to build and improve vocabulary and spelling skills. Selected projects relate to both in-class and supplementary reading. This course is designed for students who encounter difficulty in learning through normal classroom methods. Teachers stress individualized practices.

PRE-REQUISITE: Permission required from the Director of Special Education. 

163 INTRODUCTION TO JOURNALISM

This half-year (0.5 credit) elective is intended for Sophomores and Juniors and is designed to introduce students to the basics of journalism. Emphasis will be on areas that are most applicable to print journalism and publishing the school newspaper (i.e., ethics, writing, editing, reporting, and layout techniques). It is intended that the class will produce a supplement to The Kaleidoscope during the semester.

PRE-REQUISITE: Recommendation of the previous English teacher. 

Recommended for 11th Grade 

141 EXPOSITORY WRITING 11 A1 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-oriented course focuses on expository writing. The student works in various forms, including process, analysis, comparison contrast, argumentation, persuasion, criticism, and documented exposition. The emphasis is on creating and narrowing theses, developing and organizing ideas, and mastering research procedures. Supplementary examples from current newspapers, magazines, and books provide models and stimulate discussions about the various modes of writing. The student selects outside readings from a list of American authors. The course culminates in the Junior Essay, a documented literary essay. Daily vocabulary is stressed for reading comprehension and SAT preparation. 

142 AMERICAN WRITERS 11 A2 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-oriented course focuses on American Literature. Presented chronologically, the presentation includes readings from American writers and the major periods. Class discussions provide a basis for analysis and interpretation, while writing assignments enhance comprehension of authors and their works. Outside readings supplement the anthology. Encouraging enjoyment and appreciation of the classics and modern writings is a major focus of the course. Vocabulary in preparation for the PSAT/SAT is also stressed. 

144 EXPOSITION 11 B1 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-preparatory course introduces students to several forms of expository writing. Students learn how to organize, develop, and unify their writing. Supplemental reading and writing assignments reinforce vocabulary skills, grammar skills, and usage skills. A research project, oral presentations and SAT preparation are also included in the course. 

145 SURVEY OF AMERICAN LITERATURE 11 B2 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-preparatory literature course utilizes a thematic and/or chronological approach to acquaint students with major themes and masters of American literature. The course focuses on historical as well as literary themes through reading, writing, and class discussion. The course emphasizes analysis, interpretation and appreciation of the many aspects of American literature. 

147 COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS 11C2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course concentrates on developing the writing skills acquired during the Freshman and Sophomore years. Students work on the skills of planning and developing formal and informal compositions, along with the basic skills of research paper writing with the focus on revision for final draft submission. The course also includes weekly spelling and vocabulary lists which are needed to effectively communicate in today’s society. 

148 AMERICAN LITERATURE 11C1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed to improve reading skills and comprehension through familiarization with several literary genres written by American writers through a thematic approach, relating traditional American ideals with contemporary society. Students will be reading and writing responses on literary pieces ranging from the Puritan Period through the Modern Age. 

160 CREATIVE WRITING

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed for the college ability student who has a serious interest in writing. It will offer the student opportunities to experiment with writing in several genres: fiction, poetry, and drama. Though required to create works in each genre, the student will be given an opportunity to focus on a preferred type. The student will use the writing process, journals, and writing from models to enhance creativity. For students to qualify for Creative Writing Honors, they need to take Creative Writing during their junior year. 

168 AMERICAN WRITERS 11 HONORS (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed for highly-motivated students planning to attend the more competitive colleges. This survey course focuses on American Literature presenting authors and the major periods chronologically. Writing assignments and class discussions on influential authors provide a basis for thorough analysis and interpretation. Several assigned outside readings and others selected from a reading list supplement the anthology. Vocabulary and PSAT/SAT preparation are also stressed. An independent summer reading/writing component is required and provides the starting point for independent projects in September.

ENTRANCE CRITERIA: An 88 or better average in all English courses (primarily at the A level) prior to application; successful completion of that year’s second semester English course with an 88 or better average; teacher recommendations; submission of a non-creative writing sample; a possible interview; and an agreement to complete an independent summer reading-writing component to be used as part of the first term grade. 

169 EXPOSITORY WRITING 11 HONORS (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) honors course in expository writing is designed for highly-motivated students planning to attend more competitive colleges. The students produce essays in various forms, including process, analysis, comparison-contrast, argumentation, persuasion, criticism, and documented exposition. Students work independently, creating and narrowing theses, developing and organizing ideas, and mastering research procedures. Supplementary examples from current newspapers, magazines, and books provide models and stimulate discussions about the various modes of writing. The course culminates in the Junior Essay, a documented literary essay. For independent, in-depth projects, the students select outside readings from a list of American authors. Daily vocabulary is stressed for reading comprehension and SAT preparation.

ENTRANCE CRITERIA: Same as 168. 

Recommended for 12th Grade 

171 ADVANCED PERSUASIVE WRITING 12A1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-oriented course requires students to develop the independence in thinking and writing which is necessary for successful college work. The course focuses on a refinement of the writing skills necessary to develop college application and scholarship essays, resumes, informal responses, and formal argumentation and persuasion. The culmination of the course is the completion of the Senior Essay, a longer argumentative/persuasive paper including both primary and secondary research. The Senior Essay is a comprehensive, independent research project that relies heavily upon the research and writing skills developed during the A level Junior Essay process. Also included in the course are independent readings, vocabulary work, and SAT review, and a review of correct usage. 

172 BRITISH LITERATURE 12 A2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-oriented course focuses on an understanding and appreciation of British literature. Along with the literature itself, students study the authors and the history of the British people. Because this is a survey course, emphasis is placed on the prominent writers of the various literary movements. The course progresses chronologically from the Anglo-Saxon period to the 20th Century. Independent reading and writing assignments reinforce the ideas and movements studied in the course. 

174 ARGUMENT AND PERSUASION 12 B1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-preparatory writing course encompasses a variety of writing and reading assignments geared to help the senior writing student function at the college level. Methods of formal argument and persuasion are emphasized. Also, real world writing tasks such as resume and cover letter will be presented. Activities include analytical and critical reading of researched data, formal writing assignments, and public speaking tasks. Preparation for the SAT will include strategies to take it. 

175 BRITISH LITERATURE 12 B2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) college-preparatory literature course utilizes a thematic and/or chronological approach to acquaint students with the spectrum of British literature. It will enable the student to increase fundamental appreciation of classical literature through an awareness of its relevance to life. Work will include extensive independent and class reading, as well as critical written response. 

177 WRITING FOR THE REAL WORLD 12 C1 (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course encompasses a variety of writing and reading assignments geared to help the senior writing student function in the work world and at the two-year technical college level. Daily adult writing tasks, as well as essay process and development are emphasized. Activities include critical reading of researched data, formal writing assignments, and public speaking tasks. 

178 BRITISH LITERATURE 12 C2 (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course utilizes a thematic and/or chronological approach to acquaint students with the spectrum of British literature. It will enable the student to increase fundamental appreciation of classical literature through an awareness of its relevancy to life. Work will include class and supplementary independent readings, as well as written and oral presentations. 

187 ADVANCED PERSUASIVE WRITING: HONORS/AP (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) honors/AP course is designed for highly motivated students to develop the independence in thinking and writing which is necessary for successful work at the more competitive colleges. The course provides a comprehensive approach focused on the individual writer’s refinement of the writing skills necessary to develop college application and scholarship essays, resumes, informal responses, and formal argumentation and persuasion. The culmination of the course is the completion of

the Senior Essay, a longer argumentative/persuasive paper including both primary and secondary research.

The Senior Essay is a comprehensive, independent research project that relies heavily upon the research and writing skills developed during the Honors Junior Essay process. Also included in the course are independent readings, vocabulary work, and SAT review. An independent summer reading/ writing project is required.

ENTRANCE CRITERIA: An 88 or better average in all English courses (primarily at the Honors and A levels) prior to application; successful completion of that year’s second semester English course with an 88 or better average; teacher recommendations; submission of a non-creative writing sample; a possible interview; and an agreement to complete an independent summer reading-writing

component to be used as part of the first term grade. Students already enrolled in Honors English 11 need to maintain an 85 average in that course and agree to complete the summer component in order to register for Honors English 12. 

188 BRITISH LITERATURE 12 HONORS/AP (sem. 2)

This half-year (0.5 credit) honors course is designed for highly-motivated students to develop an understanding and appreciation of our British literary heritage. Because this is a survey course, emphasis is placed on the prominent writers and works of the various literary movements, along with their historical context. The course progresses chronologically from the Anglo-Saxon period to the modern era. Independent reading and writing projects reinforce the ideas and literary movements studied in the course.

ENTRANCE CRITERIA: Same as 187. 

ELECTIVES (Juniors and Seniors) 

161 CREATIVE WRITING HONORS

This half-year (0.5 credit) intensive course helps students to master skills and techniques learned in Creative Writing (160). Through daily journal entries and weekly writing assignments, students will be expected to work independently as well as collaboratively in a variety of genres. Students must show initiative as well as self-discipline as they explore the genres of their choice. Using portfolio evaluation of individual projects, the course also emphasizes manuscript form, available markets, and methods of publishing. An independent summer writing project is a required component of this honors course. This is a Senior elective.

ENTRANCE CRITERIA: An 88 or better average; written recommendations from all English teachers for the previous two years.

PRE-REQUISITE: Creative Writing (160) with a grade of 88 or better during the junior year. 

190 INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed to provide an opportunity for those who enjoy acting and the theatre to learn about the basic principles of acting. The following areas will be covered: history of the theatre, voice, stage movement, characterization, and the vocabulary of the theatre. This is a beginning course, and students do not have to have stage experience in order to enroll. This course is primarily a Senior elective but, depending on enrollment, may be available to Juniors. This course satisfies the 0.5 art requirement for graduation.

191 PUBLIC SPEAKING (sem. 1)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed to give the student some practical experience in speaking situations that the student is apt to encounter in life. With this goal in mind, the following areas are covered: voice projection, presentation of oral reports, argumentation and persuasion, statement of opinion, introduction of people or topics, thank you and acceptance speeches, impromptu speeches, and participation in group discussions, panels and meetings. This course is primarily a Senior elective but, depending on enrollment, may be available to Juniors.

195 ADVANCED DRAMA

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed to provide an opportunity for students with acting experience and knowledge of basic drama concepts to learn advanced acting techniques. Students will be encouraged to perform a variety of selections from Shakespeare to Simon, from comedy to drama. Characterization, stage movement, and voice will be emphasized. This course is primarily a Senior elective but, depending on enrollment, may be available to Juniors. 

Students will be accepted into the course by audition and with the permission of the instructor. 

198 ADVANCED YEARBOOK DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

This full-year (1 credit) course is designed for students who have completed Yearbook Design and Production. Students accepted into this class manage the organization of staff, design layouts, and assist others in overseeing the production of the Critic yearbook. The course requires students to demonstrate leadership skills as well as the diligence to see that all completed work meets formal publication standards. Students will acquire lifelong skills in a variety of print mediums. Recommendation and acceptance into the course require the approval of the yearbook advisor.  

5109 YEARBOOK DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Staff positions are limited and are open to students who complete the application and recommendation process for this full-year course. Because this is a challenging program, selection for the course is reserved for responsible individuals who are willing to devote extra time during studies and after school to see that the work is completed. Desktop publishing is used to teach layout, design, copy, and graphics. While the course emphasizes the knowledge and skills associated with publishing, the year is spent producing the Pinkerton Critic. To be considered, a student must get the yearbook advisor’s signature during the course sign-up process. Successful completion of Desktop Publishing

is recommended.

5109 YEARBOOK DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Staff positions are limited and are open to students who complete the application and recommendation process for this full-year course. Because this is a challenging program, selection for the course is reserved for responsible individuals who are willing to devote extra time during studies and after school to see that the work is completed. Desktop publishing is used to teach layout, design, copy, and graphics. While the course emphasizes the knowledge and skills associated with publishing, the year is spent producing the Pinkerton Critic. To be considered, a student must get the yearbook advisor’s signature during the course sign-up process. Successful completion of Desktop Publishing is recommended.

170 MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION

This half-year (0.5 credit) course will entail an in depth study of the media as a means of communication. It will help students interpret today’s innovations in technology by studying the influence of the mass media, the acceleration of information, and the impact of different forms of communication on social and moral values, the changes in mankind’s relationships to family, government, and fellow humans.

150 INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION (IPC)

This half-year (0.5 credit) course provides an overview of the communication process. Special units include the dynamics of communication, self-concept, listening, nonverbal communication, perceptions, feelings and emotions, conflict resolution, and improvement of communication climates. The course enables the students to improve their communication skills in both one-to-one and group settings. The course is student-centered and requires participation in role plays, individual project presentations, and small and large group discussions and activities.

180 SPORTS LITERATURE

This half-year (0.5 credit) course is designed to stimulate an interest in reading through literature that pertains to athletics. The course will attempt to improve the students’ skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. A variety of fiction, nonfiction, and other sports material will be read. 

164 JOURNALISM

This full-year (1 credit) course, intended for Juniors and Seniors, builds on the skills and knowledge obtained in Introduction to Journalism. The primary objective of the course is the publication of the school newspaper, The Kaleidoscope.

PRE-REQUISITE: Successful completion of Introduction to Journalism and the recommendation of the Introduction to Journalism teacher.