English

Senior English is an Authority subject of four semesters' length. In 2002, a new Work Program was implemented, which is derived from the Senior English Syllabus (2002).

This course is quite different to that taught previously.

DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE

Over the two-year course, students will study and interact with a wide variety of literary, mass media and everday texts. Students will be expected to develop and use critical skills in writing, speaking or singing, viewing, listening and thinking. This course teaches students to reflect on ways of being in the world, shape their identities, develop meaningful realtionships with others, and express their ideas and feelings. Finally students are also encouraged to gain pleasure from texts whilst also developing their understanding of the powerof texts to influcence.

ORGANISATION

Within the four-semester course, work is divided into units. These move from being predominately teacher-guided to being self-paced. These units are not necessarily based around one text, but rather a variety of texts centred on a theme. This range of texts will include:

  • Literature (novels, short stories and poetry) - traditional, contemporary, from a variety of cultures including Australian and across history
  • Scripted drama and drama performed as theatre
  • Reflective texts such as biographies, autobiographies and journals
  • Works produced specifically for older adolescents
  • Spoken and written everyday texts of work, family and community life

ASSESSMENT

Assessment in Senior English is criterion based. The criteria used are:

  • Knowledge and understanding of texts in their contexts
  • Knowledge and understanding of textual features
  • Knowledge and application of the constructedness of texts
In each year, students complete four or five written tasks and two or three spoken/signed tasks. Some assessment tasks are completed under test conditions, some using a combination of class and student time. Most spoken/signed tasks will be recorded.

A folio of assessment work is kept for each student. It is essential that students do their best in each piece of assessment work, as each piece contributes towards the student's final result.

FOR THE FUTURE?

A successful study of the English language and literature during Senior is a firm basis for any future studies, for immediate employment and, indeed, for a productive life.

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