Term 3 has been another incredibly busy term for the English Faculty!

Year 7 English students have been engaging in a study of the Fantasy genre, reading either Tolkien’s The Hobbit or Le Guin’s A Wizard of Earthsea. Students are working towards crafting their own piece of fantasy writing, learning about how to immerse the reader in an engaging setting and how to create interesting characters that fit fantasy archetypes.

Ask your Year 7 child what they are reading and what they can tell you about the fantasy genre.

Year 8 English students are engaging in a film study of Phllip Noyce’s Rabbit Proof Fence, in which they analyse how meaning is created through cinematic techniques. Students will appreciate how historical context influences the creation of texts, and will consider the significance of the film in continuing the conversation on the devastating consequences of the Stolen Generations.

Year 8 students are also participating in a wide reading program. Reading is fundamental to developing minds; It builds competence in writing, speaking and control over syntax. It also develops knowledge of the world and other cultures, values and beliefs, which is core to building empathy.

Ask your Year 8 child to tell you about the book they are reading at the moment.

Year 9 students are currently engaging in an auteur study in which they investigate the distinctive characteristics of the filmography of Wes Anderson. Through a study of Isle of Dogs and Fantastic Mr. Fox, students will understand the social and cultural perspectives Anderson conveys, and how his work is influenced by his context with a particular focus on his representation of childhood and outcasts.

Ask your Year 9 child about the characteristics that classify Wes Anderson as an auteur director, and if they are able to identify any other examples of auteurs.

Year 10 English students have just completed their study of a classic novel, examining why some texts maintain their appeal across time and place. Students composed a hand written essay, under exam conditions, evaluating the literary value of their novel. This was a challenging task but students have performed well, developing their examination and critical writing skills.

Ask your Year 10 child why their studied novel still has an impact on audiences

Year 11 English are about to embark on the End of Course Examination. Standard, Advanced and Extension One students will be required to revisit their studies across the year and compose extended responses to unseen questions within their examinations. This is no easy task. Synthesis of course content, distilling notes, re-reading texts and responding to sample questions are essential to exam success.

Ask your Year 11 child how they are approaching/or approached their study and revision.

Year 12 English students are in the final weeks of their High School careers. As the HSC Examination approaches, Year 12 students should be partaking in rigorous synthesis of course content, memorisation of essential material and practice of sample exam questions.

Within English, students have been provided with past exemplar scripts and a range of sample questions to respond to. It is now down to the students to focus and put in their best effort.

Ask your Year 12 kidults how they are managing their (immense) English studies.

The English Faculty has had a wonderful time teaching the current Year Twelve cohort, and wish them all the best of luck in their upcoming exams and success in their individual goals.