English

Ninth Grade English

This course provides an introduction and a working understanding of grammar, spelling, vocabulary, writing, and literature. Students apply the basic concepts of English through creative writing and personalized discussions of poetry, short stories, and engaging works such as Romeo and Juliet, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Hiding Place, and The Hobbit.

Tenth Grade English

Composition, grammar, and literature are the focus of this course. Grammar study is directly linked to writing applications with an emphasis on constructing more lucid and vivid compositions in a variety of styles. Literature selections include authors such as Dickens and Shakespeare, which introduce students to reading prose that offers more complexity in characterization, plot, and theme.

Regents English 11

While continuing to refine the skills of grammar, usage, and mechanics, this two-semester course emphasizes the critical analysis of literature and prepares students for New York State's exit-level Regents Examination in English. Special attention is also given to developing essay-writing skills so that students are well prepared for the more intensive writing requirements of 12th grade English.

Twelfth Grade English

In this final two-semester course students will read, discuss, and write essays about six to eight major works, including one section on poetry. Major works include Canterbury Tales, King Lear, Hamlet, and The Power and the Glory, and selections that complement our character education curriculum such as That Hideous Strength, The Return of the King, and selections from the Old and New Testament. Students will also do a research paper during the year. Students will routinely study and be tested on selected vocabulary and spelling words as well as grammatical concepts and rules. Student essays will be expected to reflect a level of analysis that conveys cause and effect concepts, relationships among characterization, theme, plot, setting, and language; historical, personal, and cultural influences; and universal and archetypal ideas. Students will also be expected to do in-class presentations of readings and speeches.

English Faculty

Aleta Kahn English Department Chair

B.S., City College of New York
M.A., Columbia University

Aleta joined The Family Foundation School as an English teacher in 2001 with a background in alternative and rehabilitative education, speech pathology and language disorders. In addition to teaching English 10 and 11, she currently oversees curriculum development as the English Department Chair. Outside the school, Aleta performs regularly with the Lakeside Players and Act Underground, local area theater groups, and is active in the Nonviolent Communication movement. Aleta has two grown daughters and a grandson, and lives in Honesdale, Pa.

Jan Cheripko English 12 and Honors Composition

B.A., St. Thomas Aquinas College

A career writer, editor and journalist, Jan began working part time at The Family Foundation School in 1986 and full time in 2000. In addition to teaching English 12 and Honors Composition, he conducts Living Skills classes and is the Family Leader of FFS Talbot House. He has also served as principal of the FFS middle school. A celebrated author of award-winning books for children and young adults, Jan has addressed audiences throughout the country and abroad on at-risk teens, addiction, and writing. He lives with his wife, Valray, and daughter, Julia, in Bethany, Pa. where he sits on the Borough Council.

Sidney F. Parham, Ph.D. College English

B.A., English, Washington and Lee University
M.A., English, University of Virginia
Ph.D., Drama, Tufts University

In addition to his administrative responsibilities and heading up the drama department at The Family Foundation School, Sid also teaches college English classes, specifically "Masterpieces of Literature" and "Myth, Legends, and Sacred Literature." In directing the annual spring play since joining the faculty in 2000, Sid has also introduced both students and audiences to numerous classical playwrights, most recently Moliere, Anton Chekov, Jean Giraudoux, and Dorothy Parker. He resides on campus with his wife, FFS administrator Rita Argiros and their two German shepherds.

Robert Kern English Teacher

B.A. History, Stony Brook University
M.A. Inclusive Secondary Education, Hofstra University
New York State Certification in Special Education

Rob joined The Family Foundation School staff in August 2011. In addition to teaching FFS English classes, he serves as director of the school's Extended Academic Services program, assisting students in need of tutoring and other learning support. Off campus Rob enjoys sailing and snowboarding. Rob and his fiancee Jade live in Binghamton, N.Y.