The English Department at Kaplan Career Academy stresses the development of skills in reading and writing. In the area of reading, students are exposed to a variety of titles, classic and contemporary works, as well as multi-cultural titles. The emphasis is on teaching students to attain reading comprehension skills including analysis, interpretation, evaluation, and synthesis. Reading instruction also includes vocabulary development. In the area of writing, students are taught various types of writing including literary analysis, argumentation, narration, description, and research. Emphasis is placed on writing clear, logical, well-documented papers, as well as developing a voice. Grammar is taught as part of the writing process with an emphasis on the construction of a sentence. Additionally, students that are reading significantly below grade level are provided diagnostic intervention and instruction by our certified reading specialist.

Regents English 9 / 10 / 11 / 12

Click to view the English Curriculum 

Writing Practices that Improve Student Reading

Keep up with daily homework assignments. This does not always mean written work, but often does mean reading a certain number of pages from the text being studied.

Participate actively in class discussions. It is through class discussions that students learn to become critical thinkers and critical readers. Since such discussions are so important, many English teachers assign a grade for class participation.

Turn in papers on time. The English teacher will call home and/or contact residential staff before a student receives a zero on a paper.

The Historical Geek - Volume 2 - Flying High

By: Isabel Schmidt (10th grade student)

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to fly?

I don't mean anything dangerous. I mean like in an airplane. The kind you see in the sky. Well, if you see one, you may want to wave at it! I'm just kidding. Well, today we traveled to Stewart International Airport.

Taking Off

The first plane that ever took off at Stewart was in 1928. The newest model (name the model of the plane) in the 1950’s gave planes more speed and gas tank expansion. When the new planes took off, they were more technologically advanced. Planes had autopilot and propellers that were strong enough to blow trees down.

In Charge of Air

“Being a pilot takes a lot,” says Sue Delorenzo, one of the best pilots in Orange County. She has flown more than 20,348 flights in her career, an astounding number. Sue was only 23 when she got her pilot license. The 31 year old now pilots for United Airlines. 

The Clear Skies 

In 2008, airplanes were the next tech advanced program. The planes nowadays have TVs, food sources, bathrooms, and recliner seats. Also, did you know that if the captain leaves for a bathroom break, the co-pilot puts on a special pilot button? This button signals the staff that the plane is on autopilot. It's pretty cool. Next time you hear a ringing sound while you’re on a plane,  remember the pilot is taking a bathroom break.

The Historical Geek - Volume 1 - Can Books Talk?

By: Isabel Schmidt (10th grade student)

Today, we will travel to the books. You know, the Moffat Library. Yeah, this magical history of books on a shelf is today's local attraction. The library serves thousands of people all over Orange County, NY. This 3,056 square foot building has everyone wanting more. The thirst for reading has become a big hobby.

The Beginning of Time 

David Moffat, a self-made millionaire, wanted to do something for his hometown in the memory of his family. The year 1885 in Denver was when this library was envisioned.  Two years later, David put his plan to action. The year 1887 library was planned to be built on the site of Samuel Moffat's home, with hundreds of shelves containing hundreds of books.

The Old Treasures 

Over one-hundred years have passed and the colorful prisms of light still dance across the book-lined walls. Designed by a famous architect, G. E. Harney from New York City, the ambiance of the Moffat Library is created from the sun shining its way through the stained glass Tiffany windows. The building includes a clock tower complete with a Howard clock, Grecian columns, an auditorium with seating for 375, a huge brick fireplace, brass chandeliers, and bricks provided by Goshen Brick. The Historic Moffat Library was finished in 1887.  The library’s two stained glass Tiffany windows were added in 1899.

The Devastation

On October 22, 2012, Hurricane Sandy hit the town of Washingtonville. The flood water was so high that it had people on boats, roofs, and even on cars. This water created so much damage to the historical building, creating mold that destroyed thousands of books. The damage was so bad that the library was shut down for years. The cost of renewal was so expensive that it would have cost 1 million dollars. Replacing the library meant that you had to travel to another town just to get books. So a new plan came to attention.

The Beginning of a New Era

On June 19, 2015, the final decision was announced. The library was going to be remodeled after years of tragedy. Mayor Huntiz (2013-2016) started a fundraiser to help rebuild the library. On October 7, 2015, the construction crew was on the scene building the new and improved library. On September 16, 2017, the library had the grand reopening after being constructed for 2 years. This reopening was a leap of joy for history, keeping 85% of the original building in place. This library had a new kids area, computers, and a history room. So now the next time you go to a library ask the books questions. You may be surprised by what they say.