We are proud to report that Grade 12 students in ENG 160, a Writing and Rhetoric course that is credited by SUNY New Paltz and taught by Ellenville Junior/Senior High School teacher Rhiannon Fagan, recently completed the task of submitting their portfolios. All of the students’ portfolios met the expectations of the course, and two students—James Valenti and Sabihah Rahman—even earned an “Exceeds,” which means they have exceeded the expectations of the program!
Students earn three college undergraduate credits while still in high school, upon successful completion of this course. They work on writing in four different genres, and they then choose two of their major papers for portfolio review. Not only do participants work on the process of writing, but they also reflect on the purpose, audience, and genre of each piece.
Sabihah and James demonstrated such high level skills as being able to establish an effective voice and style, as well as “going to unexpected places” in their papers, said Fagan. “They also succeeded in developing sources beyond the typical commentary, and showing a fresh perspective on the topics they chose,” she added.
The first paper James submitted was a memoir that recounts a childhood shopping trip that turned into a nightmare, as a family member's theft is exposed. The experience becomes a stark lesson about betrayal and manipulation that James said led him, the narrator, to break free of this person’s influence.
James also wrote an argumentative paper that explores the impact of social media on mental health. He analyzes the widespread use of multiple social media platforms and their adverse effects, including the phenomenon of “FOMO” (fear of missing out), self-comparison, cyberbullying, and the spread of misinformation. His paper stresses the need to foster a healthier online experience.
“In Mrs. Fagan's class, I cherish the supportive environment that encourages individuality in writing,” said James. “The freedom to creatively explore outside the traditional curriculum has not only allowed for personal growth, but has provided a therapeutic outlet through reflective writing prompts on past experiences and traumas.”
Sabihah also submitted a memoir and an argumentative research paper. She said she resonated deeply with both pieces. In her memoir, she shares a personal story about a significant memory with her father, which illustrates the struggles of immigrant parents and their sacrifices. In the argumentative research paper, Sabihah chose to speak about a topic she feels strongly about—media bias in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“The essays I have submitted have provided me with an emotional outlet that I am very appreciative of,” said Sabihah. “English 160 has given me an experience that no other advanced class has given me, an experience that allows me to use my own voice.”
Fagan is extremely proud of the students in this advanced composition class. “Over the course of the year, I have been impressed with their dedication to the writing process, and their willingness to push themselves to pursue difficult topics and enter academic, political, and social discussions through their writing,” she said.