English

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.

In Year 11 and 12, the study of English is mandatory. Courses offered include:

English Advanced
English Extension 1
English Extension 2
English Standard

'Language shapes our understanding of ourselves and our world.'

- Australian National Curriculum Rationale English K-10 Syllabus.

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At Sydney Tech, the English Faculty’s vision is underpinned by the belief that language is the principal means by which we relate to others and is central to the intellectual, social and emotional development of all students.

Our purpose is to enable our students to become confident communicators, critical and imaginative thinkers, lifelong learners and informed, active participants in our social landscape.

Literature

Through an eclectic mix of print texts, spoken texts, visual texts, multimedia and digital texts we aim to provide a wide range of experiences to enrich student knowledge. Our selection of texts is informed by our pedagogical understanding of the needs of gifted and talented students and their interactions with texts become increasingly sophisticated as they navigate their secondary educational journey.

Communication

The core component underpinning effective communication is literacy. We support the development of writing and the expression of higher order ideas through our structured approach to critical discourse, drafting, editing, close marking and the provision of relevant feedback.

Wide reading

The aim of the program is to develop a passion for reading by allowing students to choose their own texts so they can explore genres and ideas that interest them. Through reading, students are exposed to the richness of language, enhancing their literacy and communication skills.

Debating and public speaking

An ability to present a coherent argument and effectively communicate a point of view is a vital part of communication. Students develop these skills through the debating component in class, participation in public speaking competitions, and the opportunity to represent the school in state-wide debating events. This also helps to build confidence in public speaking and mental agility in refuting opposing arguments on the spot.

Drama

We offer Drama as both a junior and senior elective. The courses expose the students to a wide range of theatrical styles through the theoretical study of plays and practical performances. They are encouraged to develop their own creativity through improvisation and the creation of group devised pieces. Excursions to the theatre are an important component of the study of Drama.

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