English

English study is mandatory in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.

Students learn about the English language through written, spoken and visual texts of increasing complexity as they progress through their schooling. An understanding of the English language is central to how we communicate and essential for intellectual, social and emotional development.

The study of English should develop a love of literature and learning and be challenging and enjoyable. It develops skills to enable students to experiment with ideas and expression, to become active, independent and lifelong learners, to work with each other and to reflect on their learning.

Stage 4

English in Stage 4 priorities introducing students to the possibilities and promise of storytelling as a tool to critically and creatively unpack the values, beliefs, and assumptions of individuals and communities throughout time. Students build confidence engaging with literature in a variety of forms and modes including poetry, prose, nonfiction, and film; focusing on how language can be leveraged to reflect on how and why stories are valued in our world. Students demonstrate their understanding through critical, creative, and reflective responses.

All students additionally study one period of drama in a fortnight to develop their capacity as capable and confident public speakers. Students interested in drama have the opportunity to pursue the subject as an elective in Stage 5.

Stage 5

The Stage 5 English course builds on the foundation of study in Stage 4 and seeks to extend the learning and understanding of our students. Through engaging with increasingly complex texts and text types, Stage 5 students refine their understanding of how and why concepts and concerns in literature resonate across time. The Stage 5 English curriculum prioritises the balance of teacher-led learning and independent investigation into emerging literary concerns.

Moreover, Stage 5 Drama allows students to theoretically and practically explore a variety of theatrical styles and influential practitioners of drama. Students study the Elements of Drama alongside different forms of theatre that exist in different cultures and contexts including an in-depth study of contemporary Australian theatre. Stage 5 Drama enriches student’s understanding of the conventions of theatrical styles and the social purpose of drama and theatre in an historical context.

Stage 6

The aim of English in Years 11 and 12 is to enable students to understand and use language effectively. Students have opportunities to appreciate, reflect on and enjoy literature, and make meaning in ways that are imaginative, creative, interpretive, critical and powerful. Students value the English language in its various textual forms to become thoughtful and effective communicators in a diverse world. In Stage 6, all students undertake a study of English Advanced. Students can elect to study the English Extension course in Year 11, and those passionate about literature can pursue English Extension 1 and English Extension 2 in their Year 12 pattern of study.

Students in Drama study the practices of Making, Performing and Critically Studying theatre. While the course builds on the Stages 4 and 5 Drama course, it also caters for students with less experience in Drama with a focus on building appreciation for drama and theatre. Stage 6 Drama extends students understanding of the Elements of Drama and production and students are given multiple opportunities to develop, perform and analyse original pieces of theatre with a focus on students as directors and artists. Students explore a core topic of Australian theatre and a variety of theatrical styles through experiential learning and develop confidence to create their own works suitable for the stage to be marked at a HSC level.

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