English
CB ENGLISH I
1 Credit
Grade: 9
This course includes a survey of Western European literature which is used as a basis for thorough writing course. The writing process taught in a step by step approach expands to include various types of writing. Analyzing and critical thinking papers, informative writing, as well as creative writing are included. Research skills are taught in connection with an informative essay assignment. Reading and grammar skills are taught prescriptively.
CB ENGLISH II
1 Credit
Grade: 10
In the second year course, multi-cultural literature combines with a writing course. Students explore the genre in more depth and use the works to hone their essay skills. A documented essay culminates the writing experience. Students learn about cultures much diverse from their own reading selections from Asia, Africa and South America. More time is spent on analyzing and comparing literature selections.
CB ENGLISH III
1 Credit
Grade: 11
Basically a genre survey course in American Literature, it covers material from the Colonial Period to the Twentieth Century. Written and oral skills which are emphasized in the course, give attention to interpretation of literature. The students learn how to research and organize a term-paper complete with full notation.
CB ENGLISH IV
1 Credit
Grade: 12
A general survey course of British Literature arranged chronologically emphasizes critical reading and appreciation of the literature in the historical context. Writing corresponds with the literature and a research paper is required with skills being taught in a review approach.
HONORS ENGLISH I
1 Credit
Grade: 9
Prerequisite: Above level scores on standardized achievement test or proficient rating on a portfolio and teacher recommendation.
An accelerated course, students are required to write essays for a purpose. The writing process practiced allows students to apply the skills to all their coursework. The elements of poetry, short story, drama and the novel lead to analyzing, comparing and interpreting literature through essays. A documented essay provides an opportunity to learn research and documentation skills.
HONORS ENGLISH II
1 Credit
Grade: 10
Prerequisite: Above level scores on standardized achievement test or proficient rating on a portfolio and teacher recommendation.
The course work combines an intensive composition program with the study and analysis of literary selections by international authors. In the composition program students write several multi-paragraph papers, culminating in a research based problem-solution report. Students also respond to literature through multi-paragraph expository essays, creative writing, and group and individual projects.
HONORS ENGLISH III
1 Credit
Grade: 11
Prerequisite: Above level scores on standardized achievement test or proficient rating on a portfolio and teacher recommendation.
A chronological study of American Literature emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze for specific literary techniques. Students use their writing skills to demonstrate their understanding of the literature and to create their own works. A formal research paper assignment provides the students with the opportunity to hone their research, organization, and writing skills. Formal documentation and style manual use completes the instruction.
COLLEGE LEVEL ENGLISH
ENGLISH 101 AND 102
1 Credit
Grade: 12
Prerequisite: Above level scores on standardized achievement test or proficient rating on a portfolio and teacher recommendation.
This course has the dual purpose of preparing the student for an Advanced Placement Exam or earning college credit in connection with Saint Catharine College. It provides a comprehensive study of literature using both genre units and a chronological survey of British literature. Composition includes both in class essay writing and formal research.
FORENSICS
1 Credit
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Parent permission and volunteer service hours, registration fees for tournaments, an approved competition outfit, and weekly after school practice.
Forensics promotes good speaking and communication skills and enhances self-esteem through competition. Forensics students create the primary core of the Bethlehem Speech Team. Students learn how to compete in categories, including extemporaneous speaking, oral interpretation, radio broadcasting, duo-acting and story-telling, among others. Students gain recognition in the local, state and national levels.
PUBLIC SPEAKING
1 Credit
Grades: 10, 11, 12
This course introduces the student to all aspects of effective public speaking. Preparation for various types of speeches is emphasized. In addition to speeches the students are exposed to interview techniques, oral reading, debate, the mass media, as well as other settings where public speaking is used.
MOVIE CLASSICS
1/2 Credit
Grades: 10,11,12
Students view classic films made between 1930 and 1970 which have become part of the American Culture. Students learn about film icons such as actors like Humphrey Bogart and the Marx Brothers and directors like Frank Capra and Alfred Hitchcock. Tests and projects relate to the films studied.
YEARBOOK
1/2 credit
Grades: 11,12
In this course, students learn journalistic techniques and computer programs in order to produce the annual. Students will plan the book, determine the theme and cover design, sell advertising and design ad pages, complete sections devoted to student activities, and manage book sales.
NEWSPAPER
1/2 credit
Grades: 11,12
Students will be responsible for writing and designing a student newspaper using journalistic skills such as writing copy, headlines and captions, editing and proofreading, and page design. Students will be exposed to various writing skills, such as feature, editorial and sports writing.
CREATIVE WRITING
1/2 credit
Grades: 11,12
Students will explore their own talents within a framework of guided projects, including poetry, short stories, and essays. Students will be encouraged to share their work and explore opportunities for publication.
ACADEMIC CHALLENGES
1 Credit
Grades: 10, 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: A commitment to the Academic Competition team with out of school competitions and practices.
In the course work students use several strategies to build higher level thinking skills, apply logic to problem solving, and speed recall of specific factual information. Practice in testing formats enhance performance on standardized tests.