ELECTIVE COURSE SPRING 2026

Course Preference Form 10th Grade         Course Preference From 11th and 12th Grade

 

Business Innovations (Elective Credit) BCS11 

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

Compete for cash prizes, rewards, and national recognition while gaining career-ready skills. Build your resume and set it apart through a set of business challenges sponsored by companies like Lenovo and KPMG. Turn your creativity and problem-solving skills into real world success! Whether you’re brainstorming solutions, building presentations, or collaborating with a team, this course offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, build your portfolio, gain career-readiness skills, and prepare for your future—all while having fun and earning rewards. This course is perfect for students looking to bridge the gap between the classroom and the professional world. Are you ready to take on the challenge?

 

Career Development (Elective Credit) RZS11QCD

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

This course will examine various career options in relation to students' interests, abilities, aptitudes, and values. Students will learn how to plan and create an individualized career plan for the future. Through self-assessment inventories, job-seeking techniques and labor-market research, students will explore careers and occupations in relation to themselves to better understand the world of work. Students will engage in hands-on activities to create a professional career portfolio, and engage in career exploration field trips to various worksites and hear from guest industry professionals from a variety of career sectors to help students understand career pathways for the future. Open to 11th and 12th grade students. 

 

Creative Writing 2  (English Credit) ZJCRWRIT

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

You CAN take this course if you’ve taken Creative Writing 1. 

Creative Writing Class caters to students with an interest in exploring their creative side…through writing! Poetry and fiction have a way of transporting us, briefly, to another world, inviting us to consider new perspectives and ways of being. Students in this class will read a range of poetry and short stories from both U.S. and international authors, and learn narrative techniques that they will then apply to their own original works of fiction and poetry. Students in the class can also look forward to dabbling in experimental writing exercises or games which include ChatGPT inspired prompts, magnetic poetry, and more!

 

Digital Photography 2: Images & Our World   (Art Credit)  AJS22QDG

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

**You CAN take this course if you’ve taken Digital Photography 1. 

We live in a visual world. In this class we will explore how photographs have been used in different time periods and places to raise awareness of certain issues. Possible subjects of study will include war photography, Jacob Riis’ How the Other Half Lives, and Facebook phoneme, Humans of New York.  We will also try our hand at our own photo essays by documenting a social issue of personal importance.

Drumline (Art Credit) UNS11

*You CAN take this class multiple times.

Do you want to learn more about how to play drumbeats and learn how to read music?  Are you interested in the rhythmic fundamentals for all other instruments ? If so then join Drumline 101 where we dive into the complexities of rhythmic playing by learning drumline exercises. We will learn all the rudiments you need to know to play Marching band styles, beats, and modern grooves. Keep in mind this course is performing 100% of the time so come ready to rock and potentially play for a school event.

 

Financial Math 2 (Math Credit) MQS22QF 

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

**You CAN take this course if you’ve taken Financial Math 1. 

This is a one-semester course that focuses on how to build wealth in one's future. We will cover topics such as buying cars, buying property, investing in the stock market, and entrepreneurship. *Financial Math 1 is not a prerequisite for this class. You can take this class whether or not you have taken Financial Math 1. 

 

Forensic Science 2 (Physical Science Credit) SDS22

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

**You CAN take this course if you’ve taken Forensic Science 1. 

The objective of Forensic Science is to give upper-class students a basic understanding of forensic science and how it is used in criminal cases, by using published works and case examples.  The class is designed around authentic performance assessments with students working in teams to solve crimes using scientific knowledge and reasoning.  It involves all areas of science including biology, anatomy, chemistry, physics, and earth science with an emphasis in complex reasoning and critical thinking.  In addition, students must incorporate the use of technology, communication skills, language arts, art family and consumer science, mathematics and social studies *Forensic Science 1 is not a prerequisite for this class. You can take this class whether or not you have taken Forensic Science 1. 

 

Greenhouse 2  (Life Science Credit) SWS22 

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

**You CAN take this course if you’ve taken Greenhouse 1. 

This course will tackle the problems of living in an urban environment in a series of hands-on practical lessons and field trips. Learn about hydroponic systems (NFT, EAF, Dutch Bucket, aquaponics); plant growth requirements, growing structures (greenhouses), and plant nutrient requirements. Grow, harvest and eat plants; troubleshoot problems as they arise and gain a foundation in hydroponics suitable for working in newly emerging jobs such as hydroponic farming and green roof design and maintenance. 

 

Guitar Ensemble  (Art Credit) UGS11

*You CAN take this class multiple times.

Have you always wanted to learn how to play guitar? Are you able to play some chords but want to eventually join a band and be able to play ripping solos? Come join Guitar Ensemble and we will learn how to play different styles of music on acoustic and electric guitars. No need to own a guitar or have prior experience - just the desire to improve your talents and play music everyday.

 

Latinx Diaspora in the World 2  (Global History Credit)  

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

**You CAN take this course if you’ve taken Latinx Diaspora in the World 1. 

In this course we will see the formation of the latino/a diaspora in the World. It will cover the history of latinx countries that influenced the diaspora movement of each country. It will go into depth on the legacy of indigenous societies in latinx history and colonization history. We will also see African diasporas and influence in Latin America. Social Justice issues that are linked to racial formations, demographic patterns, (im)migration, settlement and community development. Issues of citizenship, racism and discrimination will be discussed as well as transnationalism and transnational identities.

 

Model UN  (Social Studies Elective Credit)  HGS22QUN

*You CAN take this class multiple times.

**This class meets after school 1 day on Wednesdays from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm.

The primary aim of the course is to offer students a unique opportunity to learn about international relations while role-playing United Nations delegates. Students will participate in two to three conferences with delegations from high schools throughout the world at Hofstra University, Columbia University, and at the National High School Model United Nations Conference in New York City. Each delegation will attempt to accurately represent their country's point of view as it is represented in the United Nations in New York City. Additionally, we will study the history of the UN and discuss the role of the United Nations as it works on varied issues including human rights, preservation of peace, and international politics.

 

NEW! NYC History Through Art 2 English and US History Credit (ZJAHNY)

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

**You CAN take this course if you’ve taken NYC History Through Art  1. 

This class explores the history and progress of NYC through short stories, poetry and art. We will visit parts of our city to understand how NYC became the best city in the world and create our own vision of NYC through our own reflection and creativity.  Trips, writing and creating art are essential parts of class.

Newspaper 2 English and Art Credit  ZJNEWS2

*You CAN take this class multiple times.

Be a part of reviving the school newspaper. In this course, you will get the opportunity to draft, write, edit and publish stories that impact the Tele community. You'll learn the basics of how to write and engage an audience, and how to find interesting things going on around the building, whether it's breaking news, sports, upcoming events, profiles of fellow classmates or teachers. In parts of this course we will also dive into photojournalism and design. Come launch a newspaper written by the students for the students. Students enrolling in this course should have a strong basis in reading and writing and an interest in journalism and reporting. If you have any questions email clewis48@schools.nyc.gov. 

 

Printmaking (Art Credit) (ATS11)

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

This art course is designed to introduce students to the diverse and dynamic art of printmaking. Through hands-on exploration, students will discover the techniques, history, and creative possibilities of transferring original images onto paper and fabric. The course includes the design and development of personal subject matter and provides direct studio experiences with traditional and nontraditional materials and techniques. A variety of printmaking techniques will be learned and utilized such as linoleum carving, monoprints, and foam block printmaking

 

Intro to Psychology (Social Studies Elective Credit)  HBS11QPS

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

This course provides students insight into human emotions, behavior and motives by examining the role of biology, parenting, personality and therapeutic theories.  Students delve deep into the human psyche and uncover the mysteries of mood and personality disorders, neuroses, and mental illness.  Take Psychology and answer some of your nagging questions!

 

Storytelling through Film 2

*You CANNOT take this course if you’ve taken it before and passed it.

**You CAN take this course if you’ve taken Storytelling through Film 1

The purpose of this course is to explore the art of filmmaking as a form of storytelling by making a movie from start to finish. The units of the course will follow the process required for creating a film. The units will be: planning, screenwriting, cinematography, directing/acting, and editing. Students will begin the semester with an idea and then spend the rest of the course turning it into a movie. This class will be devoted to ‘film as a form of storytelling’, which means the work should contain the elements of a story arc: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. We will use screenwriting templates, editing software and any other available filmmaking equipment.  Students will work together frequently on their projects and give constructive feedback.

Physical Education 

 

Dance  (Art and Physical Education credit)  ZJDANCE 

This class is a study in many genres of dance, street jazz, house, hip hop, and will incorporate techniques ranging from classical ballet to modern. Students can also expect to complete physical dance assessments every marking period. Students demonstrating a high level of proficiency in the course may be offered an opportunity to dance in the Lauren Johnson Spring showcase. Students are expected to be able to accept critical feedback and attend tutoring when necessary. 

 

Physical Education (Physical Education credit) PPS11

Physical Education classes are designed to use sports themes to engage students in exercise that will increase overall fitness, core strength, speed and flexibility.   

 

Weight Training (Physical Education credit) PGS11

Want to get in shape?  In Weight Training, students learn how to use calisthenics, free weights and weight machines to work out safely.  

 

Advanced Weight Training (Physical Education credit) PGS22

For those students who have taken Weight Training and are ready to move beyond the basics. Students should only sign up if they have taken weight training before.

 

Yoga (Physical Education credit) PYS11

Yoga focuses on the many poses that help build strength, flexibility, balance and stamina.  Yoga also focuses on breathing and meditative practice.  Taken together yoga will help students build their bodies and focus their minds.

College Now Course Offerings - Seniors and Juniors Only

COLLEGE NOW is a program in conjunction with Kingsborough Community College that offers credit-bearing and college preparatory courses without tuition and book fees.  COLLEGE NOW classes meet four days per week, from Tuesday through Friday, during period 1.  Students may only take one College Now class per semester.

College Now Criminal Justice   (Social Studies elective Credit)  HBS11UCJ

This course endeavors to provide students with an overview of crime in America and the three elements of the criminal justice system: the police, the courts, and corrections. Questions to be investigated include: What environmental, psychological and biological factors contribute to the making of the criminal mind?  Should the police be allowed to break the rules in order to catch criminals? To what extent do class and race affect the quality of justice? 

 

College Now Humanities (Art and English credit) ZJEUOH

This course introduces students to outstanding literature, art, film and music from the beginning of the 20th century to the present. By exploring the way these subjects are related, students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of modern American culture and the individuals who influenced the humanities.

 

College Now Sociology (Social Studies elective Credit) HBS11UQS

The Behavioral and Social Sciences are stepping stones to understanding general truths about human social behaviors. This course will use a historical and interrelated review of contemporary issues, such as work, authority and violence, to help students gain a greater appreciation of the behavioral and social forces that influence their world, both globally and locally.

 

College Now Statistics (Math Credit) MSS11U

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the rudiments of statistics and probability. Particular attention is paid to practical real-life applications and statistics.