ENGLISH

Macbeth

This term, the Year 11 English students were treated to a performance of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, by The Complete Works Theatre Company. It is essential to watch a live production of the play, as the Bard intended, to fully appreciate the intricacies of the plot, character development and imagery. Students were thoroughly entertained by this professional and skilled group of actors as they brought one of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedies to life. Students’ preparations for the related SAC were assisted by an exhaustive question and answer session run by the performers. 

Edward Scissorhands

This term the Year 7 students were introduced to their first film study in English classes, focusing on Edward Scissorhands. As a way into the text and the new challenge of film analysis, students were taken to ACMI for a special viewing of the film followed by an in depth lecture delivered by one of their resident experts. Students were offered an insight into the wonderfully imaginative worlds created by director Tim Burton. It was followed by a guided tour through a series of key scenes to examine aspects of the film such as camera shots and angles, music, lighting and costume. Although in its twenty-seventh year, Edward Scissorhands proves to be a favourite with Year 7 students as it explores relevant issues around conformity and acceptance, utilising Burton’s signature quirky humour, before leaving the audience with a positive and uplifting message.

Gattaca

As Year 10 English students are well versed in film analysis, it has been the job of English teachers to extend their knowledge and further develop their essay writing skills this term. Gattaca is presented at ACMI as a VCE text study and as we are preparing the Year 10 students for a successful start to their VCE studies we signed them up. The film lecture was met with mature enthusiasm and many thoughtful questions for the ACMI lecturer. Additionally, the lecturer gave the students an insight into university style lectures and tips on successful note taking. Gattaca has proven to be a captivating film to study as it allows students to engage with complex issues around the ethics of genetic manipulation and humanity’s indomitable desire to exceed imposed limitations. Through the protagonist’s journey students were able to understand that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.

Victoria Brahmin

English Coordinator