English Language Arts (ELA)

students sitting at a table writing in notebooks

The mission of our English Language Arts program is to guide and challenge all students to become the most effective communicators they can be. Our unifying goal is to inspire young people to become lifelong communicators who possess the skills and knowledge to compete successfully in the academic and business worlds, as well as the sensitivity and awareness to participate actively in the creative and aesthetic aspects of the communication arts. Our curriculum emphasizes reading, writing, speaking and listening in the context of the New York State English Language Arts Learning Standards as they relate both to the required assessments and the world around us.

In order to address the needs of every student, we supplement the required sequence of English and speech courses in grades nine through twelve with a wide range of additional offerings that include college-level courses, an honors program, a variety of electives, and both enrichment and communications classes designed to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to meet State examination requirements.

Course Sequences

Course placement is based on student proficiency, academic performance, and readiness for the next level of study. Students may move between course tracks as they meet the necessary prerequisites and show mastery of course content. This flexible progression model allows students to advance when they are ready and ensures that all learners have access to rigorous, standards-aligned mathematical experiences that prepare them for success in high school, college, and beyond.

Standard Pathways
Advanced Designations

Standard Pathways

Advanced Designations

11th - 12th Grade Electives

Journalism 2
Public Speaking 2
Rapping Poetic
WRT 114: Introduction to Creative Nonfiction

Support Classes

Writing Seminar - For all 9th and 10th grade students to strengthen high school writing skills.
ELA Regents Prep - For 11th grade students who need support in passing the ELA Regents.
SAT Prep - For 11th grade students who need support for SAT testing.
College Reading & Writing - For 12th grade students who passed the ELA Regents. Designed to prepare students for college-level writing.

Core content courses (math, science, social studies and English Language Arts) will include appropriate supports and services for students with disabilities, as outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and determined by the Committee on Special Education (CSE), as well as for English Language Learners (ELLs) in accordance with New York State regulations.

Core ELA Courses

English 9H

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Selection Criteria: Score of a 3 or 4 on NYS 8th Grade ELA Exam, grade of 85 or better for each quarter of 8th grade and teacher recommendation.

This honors-level course helps students build strong reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Students read challenging texts and learn how to analyze and discuss ideas clearly. They complete essays, research projects and presentations to strengthen their thinking and communication. English Language Learners (ELL) and Students with Disabilities (SWD) receive support based on their programs and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

English 9

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: None

This course helps 9th grade students improve their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills by studying different types of stories and informational texts. Students practice writing through assignments connected to what they read, with support to help them understand and explain ideas clearly. The class can be taught in a smaller setting providing extra support and individualized instruction for students with disabilities based on their IEP goals.

Integrated ENL/ELA 9/10

English 10H

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9

Selection Criteria:

New applicants - Score of 85 or better on the 9th Grade Final Exam, grade of 85 or better for each quarter of English 9 and teacher recommendation.
9H Students Continuation - Score of 85 or better on the 9th Grade Final Exam, grade of 80 or better for each quarter of English 9H and teacher recommendation.

This honors-level course helps students strengthen the skills needed to succeed on the Regents exam and prepare for advanced classes, including AP courses. Students read and analyze literature, complete research projects and write in a variety of styles. The course focuses on critical thinking and clear communication through reading, writing, speaking and listening. English Language Learners (ELL) and Students with Disabilities (SWD) receive support based on their programs and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

English 10

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9

This year-long English 10 course helps students master reading and writing skills through the study of diverse literature and the creation of persuasive and analytical essays. Whether in a standard or small-group setting, the class focuses on building strong communication and critical thinking skills aligned with state standards. For students with specialized needs, instruction is scaffolded with specific accommodations to ensure everyone can succeed in analyzing texts and developing structured writing.

AP Language and Composition

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10

Selection Criteria:

New applicants - Score of 85 or better on the 10th Grade Final Exam, grade of 85 or better for each quarter of English 10 and teacher recommendation.
10H Students Continuation - Grade of 85 or better on the final exam, grade of 80 or better for each quarter of 10H and teacher recommendation.

AP Language and Composition is a college-level course that teaches students how to analyze complex nonfiction texts and build strong, evidence-based arguments. The class focuses on improving research, critical thinking and communication skills to prepare students for academic and real-world challenges. Students will work toward mastering the AP Exam, which offers the opportunity to earn college credit based on their performance.

English 11H / RCC College Writing 101 & 102 / Academic Writing (11th Grade)

Duration: 1 year (Every Day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10 or 10H

Selection Criteria:

New applicants - Score of 85 or better on the 10th Grade Final Exam, grade of 85 or better for each quarter of English 10, and teacher recommendation.
10H Students Continuation - Grade of 85 or better on the final exam, grade of 80 or better for each quarter of 10H, and teacher recommendation.

Writing 101 and Writing 102 are designed to prepare students for college-level work by focusing on the writing process, critical reading, and analytical thinking. In Writing 101, students build foundational skills like reading comprehension and how to construct arguments, while Writing 102 teaches them to analyze diverse texts across different academic subjects. Throughout both courses, students complete about 20 pages of graded writing to strengthen their ability to interpret and communicate complex ideas clearly. This combination of classes ensures students are ready for the rigorous writing demands of their future undergraduate studies.

English 11

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10

This year-long English 11 course explores literature from around the world and focuses on important human experiences. Students build strong reading and writing skills while preparing for the English Language Arts Regents Exam. They read a variety of texts, discuss different perspectives and practice structured academic writing. Small-group classes provide extra support and accommodations for students with disabilities in a supportive learning environment.

Integrated ENL/ELA 11

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10

This course blends 11th grade English instruction with extra language support for English Language Learners. Students develop strong communication skills by reading, writing and discussing literature in a supportive environment. The class focuses on helping students master academic English while meeting grade-level standards.

Integrated ENL/ELA 11/12 (SIFE)

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10/11

This class helps students with inconsistent schooling build their English skills through themed units focused on reading, writing and academic thinking. Students will work with challenging texts to help them grow beyond their current level while receiving guided language support. The goal is to help every student develop the strong communication and literacy skills required for graduation.

AP Literature and Composition

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 11 or AP Language and Composition

Selection Criteria:

New applicants - Score of 85 or better on the ELA Regents, grade of 85 or better for each quarter of English 11 and teacher recommendation.
AP Language and Composition Students Continuation - Grade of 80 or better for each quarter of AP Language and Composition and teacher recommendation.

AP English Literature & Composition is a challenging college-level course focused on the deep analysis of literature from diverse cultures and time periods. Students will improve their writing and critical thinking skills by exploring how authors use specific techniques to shape their stories. Through detailed discussions and evidence-based essays, the class prepares students for success on the AP Exam and future university-level work.

English 12

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 11

This year-long English 12 course prepares students for college and careers through the study of diverse literature and advanced writing. Students write essays and research papers while building strong critical thinking and communication skills. They read and compare a variety of texts to better understand different ideas and perspectives. English Language Learners (ELL) and Students with Disabilities (SWD) receive support and accommodations in both standard and small-group class settings.

SUPA 12 - WRT 105 and ENG 181

Duration: 1 Year (Every Day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 11 or AP Language and Composition

Selection Criteria:

New applicants - Score of 85 or better on the ELA Regents, grade of 85 or better for each quarter of English 11, and teacher recommendation.
AP Language and Composition Students Continuation - Grade of 80 or better for each quarter of AP Language and Composition, and teacher recommendation.

Study and practice of writing processes, including critical reading, collaboration, revision, editing, and the use of technologies. Focuses on the aims, strategies, and conventions of academic prose, especially analysis and argumentation.

Auxiliary ELA Courses

Writing Seminar (9th and 10th Grade)

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None

Writing Seminar is an every-other-day class that helps students strengthen their writing through guided practice and support with assignments from their other courses. Students work on organizing ideas, using evidence and improving grammar so they can communicate clearly in their academic writing. Teachers provide targeted feedback and strategies to help students revise and improve their work. The class is designed to support all learners, including multilingual learners and students who benefit from additional writing support.

ELA Regents Preparation (11th and 12th Grade)

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10; open to juniors and seniors who are identified as at risk of failing, or who need to retake the Regents.

ELA Regents Preparation is a year-long class that meets every other day to help students get ready for the New York State English Language Arts Regents Exam. Students practice reading passages, understanding what they read and writing clear responses using evidence from the text. The class focuses on the main skills students need for the exam, including reading comprehension and writing about what they read. With guided practice and teacher support, students build the confidence and skills needed to do their best on the Regents.

ELA SAT Preparation (11th Grade)

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10; open to juniors who are on track to pass the Regents.

ELA SAT Preparation is a year-long class that meets every other day to help students prepare for the Reading and Writing sections of the SAT. Students practice reading passages, understanding main ideas and improving grammar and vocabulary. The class uses SAT-style questions and practice tests so students become familiar with the format of the exam. These skills also help students succeed in their English classes and prepare for college.

ELA Electives

Public Speaking 1

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None

Public Speaking 1 is an introductory course designed to develop foundational communication skills in a variety of speaking situations. Students learn to organize ideas, construct clear messages and deliver presentations with confidence. Instruction covers verbal and non-verbal techniques, audience analysis and effective use of visual aids. Activities include small and large group discussions, speech practice and constructive peer feedback. Support is provided for SWDs and ELLs to ensure equitable access to curriculum and skill development. This course serves as a prerequisite for Public Speaking 2.

Public Speaking 2

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Public Speaking 1

Public Speaking 2 builds on the skills students learned in Public Speaking 1 and helps them become more confident and effective speakers. Students practice different types of speeches, presentations, debates and interviews. They learn how to organize their ideas, research topics and speak clearly for different audiences. Through practice and feedback, students strengthen the communication skills they will need for college, careers and everyday life.

Journalism 1

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None

Journalism 1 introduces students to the basics of news writing, reporting and understanding the media. Students learn how to research topics, write news and feature stories, and check information for accuracy. The course also helps students think critically about the news and media they see every day. Through writing and collaborative projects, students build strong communication and critical thinking skills.

Journalism 2

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Journalism 1

Journalism 2 builds on the skills students learned in Journalism 1 and focuses on creating real school publications. Students write articles, take photos, design pages and help produce the school newspaper, yearbook or digital media. They learn how to work as a team, meet deadlines and share accurate information with their audience. This hands-on course helps students develop strong writing, communication and media production skills.

Media Communication 1

Media Communication 2

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Media Communication 1

Media Communication 2 builds on foundational skills, emphasizing advanced video and television production, including scripting, camera operation, lighting and editing. Students produce individual and collaborative projects, including participation in the East Ramapo Video Magazine. Supports for SWDs and ELLs are provided.

Rapping Poetic

Creative Writing 1

Duration: 0.5 year (Every day)
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None

Creative writing courses develop individual style and technique in poetry, short stories, drama and other prose forms. Students explore exemplary literature, engage in writing workshops and refine craft through iterative practice. Support is provided for SWDs and ELLs to ensure access to writing instruction.

Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) Dual Enrollment Elective Course

WRT 114 Writing Culture: Introduction to Creative Nonfiction

WRT 114 Writing Culture: Introduction to Creative Nonfiction

Duration: 1 year (Every day)
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10H or English 11

Selection Criteria:

11th and 12th grade students only
New applicants - Score of 85 or better on the ELA Regents, grade of 85 or better for each quarter of English 11 and teacher recommendation.
10H Students Continuation - Score of 85 or better on the ELA Regents, grade of 80 or better for each quarter of English 10H and teacher recommendation.

Writing Culture: Introduction to Creative Nonfiction introduces students to creative nonfiction (CNF), a wide genre that explores the tensions between individuals and the world around them through the lens of culture. Students study the structure and focus of diverse texts such as memoir, biography, travel writing, science writing and literary journalism, and compose their own essays, learning to blend fiction techniques—such as description, scene construction, characterization and dialogue—with poetic approaches like imagery and metaphor to craft compelling true stories with minimal embellishment. The course emphasizes the relationship between research and creative writing while encouraging students to experiment broadly with voice, style, form and audience awareness. Through intensive writing workshops, brainstorming activities, freewriting exercises and structured peer critiques, students develop their craft and reflect on their writing processes with the freedom to pursue diverse topics and perspectives.