ENGLISH

REFLECTION AND APPRECIATION

Like many people, the English team have spent much of the past fortnight reflecting. As Years 7-10 return to school and we begin to gradually see some normality return to our lives at school and home, it’s been an appropriate time to reflect on what we’ve learnt during this unprecedented term. New teaching practices to improve efficacy and efficiency will continue to be used in English classes, while it appears the time away from school has allowed many students to realise the value of a good teacher.

One of the most common comments from staff at the moment is a sense of appreciation. The following pieces by Ms Walker and Mr Papatolicas highlight how fortunate we are to be a part of a supportive community of learning like McKinnon. Opportunities like debating or simply the ability to turn off the TV or phone are things we have become increasingly grateful for. For many people, this term has proven difficult, but at the very least we can come away with a greater appreciation for things like reading, learning, teaching and connecting with others; things we might have previously taken for granted.

Sam Florence

English KLA Manager

DEBATING

Phu An Ta, Linh Nguyen and Alyssa Nikolakopoulos (all from Year 10) are just some of the many talented students improving their confidence, public speaking and English skills through debating.

Debating topics like whether all political parties should have quotas for female candidates, or whether refugees should have full access to the Australian welfare system, students are pushed to consider all aspects of complex issues. The challenge doesn’t stop there though; students need to present their argument in a convincing speech, and think on their feet to rebut the opposing team’s arguments.

McKinnon has some of the best teams in the region and we’re always looking for new students! While senior debating has finished up for this year, Year 7s and 8s should keep their eye on Compass for Term 3’s junior competition.

Rachel Walker

Debating/English Teacher

MY PRIVILEGE

In a society full of images, a new famous photo has emerged of a shadowed person holding an upside down American flag backlit by a burning storefront in Minneapolis. For those who don’t know, an upside down flag is a symbol of protest -- or even rebellion -- and that is exactly what is occurring across the sea. Following on from the 100,000 (and counting) American deaths due to Covid-19, the killing of George Floyd has left Americans feeling bewildered, frustrated, enraged and scared to death. There is no end in sight to the instability and tumult that America is now confronting, and being an American, it is hard for me to just watch from afar.

As I start a new work week following isolation, I have to remind myself every day to be grateful. My troubles are predictable, routine and would seem welcoming to so many who are hurting right now. I am free to exercise, to enjoy time with my family, to binge watch Netflix and to read a book on a Saturday afternoon. 

So, when I find myself complaining about work, or feeling anxious dealing with life during Covid-19, I think of the masked people jammed together protesting in a world of social distancing. I think of assault rifles in the streets. I think of an upside down flag in front of a row of flames. I think of a knee on a man’s neck. These are the images that have left me turning off my phone, shutting my laptop, and turning off my TV. That is my privilege. For so many out there today, such a privilege does not exist.

Mr Papatolicas

Head of Literature