English Subject Overview
The goal of the English program at Hershey High School is to develop students who are both effective communicators and critical consumers of a variety of texts to prepare them for success an increasingly complex, information-driven society. Over the course of four years, students will acquire and refine specific skills and strategies in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Derry Township School District requires that students complete four (4) credits of English to fulfill graduation requirements.
The English Department also offers numerous electives allowing students to explore a variety of interests, including Journalism, Speech Communications and Introduction to Debate, Humanities, Theatre Arts, and Creative Writing.
Derry Township School District requires that students complete four (4) credits of English to fulfill graduation requirements.
- In ninth grade, students are required to take a year-long, one-credit English course. There are two academic placement levels; college preparatory and honors.
- In tenth grade, students again are required to take a year-long, one-credit English course. There are two academic placement levels; college preparatory and honors.
- During the eleventh grade year, students have a variety of options, depending on academic level. At the college preparatory level, students will also enroll in a year-long course. However, they will choose from various topic concentrations that develop the same skills. The courses include Epics, Myths, and Legends in Literature; Great Books; Hero’s Journey; and Multicultural Literature. More advanced students who are ready for college-level work may take AP English Language and Composition, a year-long, one-credit course.
- The twelfth grade year is also comprised of year-long courses. Fundamental English students will take Contemporary Literature. At the college preparatory level, students will choose a year-long course from options including Creative Nonfiction, Words that Change the World, Science Fiction, and When Culture Goes Pop: An Exploration Through Literature and Writing. Advanced students may take AP English Literature and Composition, a year-long, one-credit course.
The English Department also offers numerous electives allowing students to explore a variety of interests, including Journalism, Speech Communications and Introduction to Debate, Humanities, Theatre Arts, and Creative Writing.