English Courses
001 English 9
1 Unit
This required Common Core course provides a foundation in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will study a variety of literary genres to build the skills needed for the Common Core ELA Regents Exam in grade 11. Projects and research assignments related to literature and classroom instruction are integral components of this course.
003 English 9 Honors
1 Unit
This reading- and writing-intensive Common Core course serves as the foundation for Advanced Placement Language and Literature courses. Students will analyze literature, identify rhetorical strategies, and develop a mature writing voice in preparation for AP exams and the Common Core ELA Regents Exam. Placement is based on teacher or school counselor referral. Students should be prepared for a rigorous academic experience and are encouraged to continue in the honors/AP program throughout high school.
019 English 10
1 Unit
This required Common Core course builds on skills developed in grade nine, emphasizing critical reading and writing. Students will analyze a variety of literary texts and complete assignments designed to prepare them for the Common Core ELA Regents Exam in grade 11.
016 English 10 Honors
1 Unit
Prerequisite: Students must have an 85+ average and/or teacher recommendation
This challenging course is designed for 10th-grade students previously enrolled in English 9 Honors who plan to pursue Advanced Placement courses in grades 11 and 12. The focus is on the reading and analysis of literature and the development of writing skills. Students will complete multiple writing assignments, long-term projects, and independent work. The course culminates in the Common Core ELA Regents Exam. Enrollment is limited to students who meet the prerequisites.
052 Contemporary Connections
Grades 10-12 | ½ Unit
Explore the challenges teenagers face in today’s diverse society through reading and writing. This Common Core course invites students to examine contemporary fictional and nonfictional characters, analyzing their actions and motivations while connecting them to personal experiences. Active class participation is required, and students will complete a research project utilizing advanced research skills.
053 Detectives and Mysteries
Grades 10-12 | ½ Unit
Dive into the world of mystery, a genre that captivates by appealing to curiosity, problem-solving, and the desire to uncover the unknown. Students will study classic mystery authors such as Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie, explore modern mysteries like The Silent Patient, and consider the future of the genre. Ideal for those interested in psychology, crime, thrillers, suspense, and exploring the darker sides of human nature.
015 Public Speaking
Grades 10-12 | ½ Unit
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
Build self-confidence and develop formal and informal speaking skills in this dynamic course. Students will focus on finding their voice, crafting meaningful messages, and presenting ideas effectively in a variety of situations. This course is perfect for students who want to strengthen communication skills and confidently share their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives.
055 Call of the Wild
Grades 10-12 | ½ Unit
Explore real-life adventures and the impact of humans on the environment in this Common Core course designed to strengthen nonfiction reading and writing skills. Students will read exciting accounts of exploration while developing research and writing proficiency. Strong attendance and a genuine interest in reading outside of class are required.
034 Science Fiction in the Age of Dystopia
Grades 10-12 | ½ Unit
Delve into dystopian literature to explore questions of citizenship, human values, and societal change. Students will read, write, and research works depicting environmental disasters, plagues, and technological transformations, analyzing how these changes shape new worlds and challenge familiar norms.
058 Death as a Force in Life and Literature
Grades 10-12 | ½ Unit
Examine death as a theme while exploring its cultural, historical, and literary significance. Students will study how death is personified in literature, art, poetry, and music, and engage in comparative research and discussion. Active participation and interest in reading outside of class are essential.
035 Sports in Literature
Grades 10-12 | ½ Unit
Explore the role of sports in shaping culture, values, and personal development. Through reading, writing, and research, students will examine lessons of determination, commitment, and perseverance, while analyzing modern sports topics and societal issues.
AENG 106 Introduction to Literature and Film (University at Albany)
Grades 11-12 | ½ Unit | 3 UHS Credits
Prerequisite: 85+ in previous English course and/or teacher recommendation
Investigate the relationship between written stories and their cinematic adaptations. Students will study film history, narrative elements, cinematography, editing, sound, and acting. Reading short stories, novels, and screenplays will support analysis of film adaptations. Attendance, preparation, and active participation are required for this seminar-style college course.
032 Multicultural Literature Studies
Grades 10-12 | ½ Unit
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
Examine global cultures through literature, with emphasis on Native American, Middle Eastern, Asian, Caribbean, and African perspectives. Students will study immigrant experiences and cultural diversity through fiction, nonfiction, research, and presentations. Active participation and reading outside of class are required.
025 English 11
1 Unit
This Common Core course covers a range of literary genres, emphasizing vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension, literary analysis, and critical writing. Students will complete a research project and study a Shakespearean play. The course prepares students for the Common Core ELA Regents Exam.
057 AP English: Language and Composition
Grades 11-12 | 1 Unit
Prerequisite: 85+ in previous English course and/or teacher recommendation
Focus on reading and analyzing discursive prose while studying writing processes. Students will explore various styles and tones through multiple writing assignments. This course prepares students for the AP College Board Exam in May and emphasizes critical reading and writing skills.
056 AP English: Literature and Composition
Grades 11-12 | 1 Unit
Prerequisite: 85+ in previous English course and/or teacher recommendation
Intensively study literary genres and works of literary merit, exploring narrative, poetry, drama, and fiction. Students will develop analytical writing skills and prepare for the AP College Board Exam in May.
036 Introduction to Teaching
Grades 11-12 | ½ Unit
Prerequisite: 85+ GPA in Honors English or 92+ in Regents English and teacher recommendation
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
An introductory course on secondary education concepts, literacy, and teaching resources. Students will complete service hours at the CCHS Literacy Center. Juniors must take an additional English course; the course must be paired with Exploring Teaching as a Profession in the second semester.
ETAP 201 Exploring Teaching as a Profession (University at Albany)
Grades 11-12 | ½ Unit
Prerequisite: 85+ GPA and successful completion of Introduction to Teaching
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
A second-semester course examining contemporary education, the role of teachers, school restructuring, and teaching careers. Students complete service hours at the CCHS Literacy Center.
COM 203Y Speech Composition and Presentation (University at Albany)
Grades 11-12 | ½ Unit
Prerequisite: 85+ in previous English course
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
Focus on speech composition and presentation strategies. Students will study four types of speeches: introductory, informative, persuasive, and motivational, developing skills to deliver and critique oral presentations effectively.
A ENG 102Z Introduction to Creative Writing (University at Albany)
Grades 11-12 | ½ Unit
Prerequisite: 85+ in previous English course
Explore creative writing in poetry, fiction, and drama. Students will read established and innovative works, participate in writing exercises, and develop skills to create exemplary original works.
030 English 12
Grade 12 Only | ½ Unit
A Common Core course for seniors not enrolled in UHS or AP pathways. Focus on advanced reading, writing, and communication skills, including personal narratives, college essays, resumes, cover letters, and interview preparation.
ENG 121 Reading Literature (University at Albany)
Grade 12 Only | 1 Unit
Prerequisite: 85+ in previous English course
Critically analyze works of fiction, nonfiction, drama, short stories, and poetry. Students will demonstrate understanding through oral and written responses. This college-based course awards three credits.
JRL 100 Foundations in Journalism (University at Albany)
Grades 11-12 | ½ Unit
Prerequisite: 85+ in previous English course
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
Learn about media, journalism ethics, and the transformation of news in the digital age. Students will research human rights issues, participate in discussions, and develop foundational reporting skills.
JRL 200Z Introduction to Reporting and News Writing (University at Albany)
Grades 11-12 | ½ Unit
Prerequisite: B or higher in JRL 100
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
Develop reporting and news writing skills, including AP style, news judgment, source evaluation, and revision. This second-semester course builds on foundational journalism knowledge.
478 Career Exploration Internship Program (CEIP)
Grade 12 | ½ Unit | Pass/Fail
Prerequisite: Completion of Business Communications, application, and interview with Work-Based Learning Coordinator
NYS Seal of Civic Readiness Pathway
Seniors participate in a 54-hour unpaid internship related to education, communication, fine arts, or performing arts. Topics include workplace etiquette, employability skills, workplace laws, and safety. Students complete instructional assignments, maintain work journals, and submit a final report. Transportation is the responsibility of the student, and internships are supervised by CCHS Work-Based Learning Coordinators.