English - Electives
Yearbook 1, 2, and 3:
Students enrolled in yearbook class work in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented
atmosphere to produce the school's yearbook. The student staff formally
documents student life at the James River High School throughout the academic
year. Students learn and cultivate life skills such as people, project,
and time management as they work collaboratively on an organizational
structure that includes student editors. The class combines desktop publishing
with journalistic theory. Students learn and practice fundamental principles
of journalistic writing and photography.
Journalism 1, 2, and 3:
Students enrolled in journalism class learn and practice basic skills
of reporting and journalistic writing as they work collaboratively to
publish the monthly James River High School student paper, The Current.
Course work is structured to mimic the real life newsroom experience.
Students participate in all aspects of newspaper publication such as personnel
management, ad sales, copy editing, and distribution. Students learn and
practice ethical standards and procedures that govern journalistic publications.
Journalism is a deadline-oriented course, which cultivates life skills
such as research, time management, and desktop publishing.
Creative Writing 1, 2, and 3:
Creative writing is an elective course designed to provide the student
with the opportunity to explore special writing interests through a variety
of writing experiences. Students will be encouraged to refine their writing
for possible inclusion in school literary publications. It is recommended
only for those students who are interested in writing. Students in Creative
Writing II and III will be expected to complete lengthier works of a more
refined quality. They will also be expected to enter writing contests
outside of school. No creative writing courses are open to freshmen.
Communications teaches oral communication in a variety of individual and group activities involving different forms of communication. Participation in our award winning forensics and debate teams is encouraged.