English

English at New Castle has taught me self-discipline. It isn’t one of my favorite subjects, but I have definitely learned how to write. –English Student

The English Department at NCCHS offers two options for meeting the graduation requirements: college-bound English or tech-prep English. In addition, students may choose from electives that include Theatre, Advanced Speech, Practical Communication, Journalism, Phoenix (newspaper), and Rosennial (yearbook).

College-bound English at NCCHS includes the sophomore year that consists of one semester of speech and one semester of instruction in literature, writing and library skills. The junior year consists of one semester of American literature and one semester that concentrates on grammar and the research paper. The senior year integrates literature and writing throughout the year, with particular emphasis on argumentative writing.  Classes in Honors English include Honors 9A and 9B, Honors 10A and 10B, Honors 11A and 11B, Honors 12A and 12B.  In addition college-bound students may be selected to participate in Honors 9 Focus, Honors 10 Focus, Honors 11 Focus, and Advanced Placement English.

Tech-Prep students, too, work on writing, library skills, and reading literature the sophomore year; but they also spend time on resumes and interviews. The junior year integrates American literature and writing, including a reference paper somehow related to drugs. The senior year includes literature, a technical paper, interviewing techniques, and business letters and resumes again.  Classes include English 9A and 9B, English 10A and 10B, English 11A and 11B, and English 12A and 12B.

The English curriculum addresses the major concepts, themes, and skills identified in the state rules and proficiencies. In both the college-bound and non-college-bound curriculums, students must listen effectively, read a variety of print sources, and use both oral and written language to communicate clearly. College-bound students are required to take a semester of speech; non-college-bound students are involved in interviews and group problem-solving situations in required classes and have the option of taking a speech elective. Generally, every class is a writing class in some way; literature and writing are integrated at every level.

Please Click here to go to the English Department Moodle page.  It will open in a new window.

Moodle is a Course Management System (CMS). It is a Free web application that is used by educators to create an effective online learning environment.  It is available at school or home allowing for anytime learning.

To find out more about Moodle please visit www.moodle.org.