English, Drama & LOTE
As we conclude Semester 1, the English/ Languages/ Library and Drama Faculty at JJ Cahill Memorial High School, we reflect on a rewarding term, filled with creativity, collaboration, and academic progress across our various subjects.
English
Our English programs aim to enable each student to develop critical thinking, effective communication, and a strong appreciation for literary texts. This semester, Ms Tickle has been a driving force behind our writing enrichment initiatives. She has worked with students from a range of year levels in the JJ Cahill Writing Club, guiding them through workshops, creative prompts, and collaborative editing sessions. Students have been encouraged to write poetry, short stories, and essays, and have had the opportunity to share their work with peers in a supportive environment.
Ms Tickle has also been instrumental in coordinating the Kamay Network’s ‘Quest’ writing initiative—a partnership with neighbouring schools—which has enabled students to participate in joint projects and inter-school author and facilitator visits. This initiative has broadened students’ horizons, fostered friendships, and further enriched their writing journeys.
For students in Years 7 and 8, our English faculty has implemented a revised Stage 4 assessment strategy, focusing on the creation of English portfolios throughout the semester. These portfolios offer students the opportunity to showcase a variety of written pieces and reading tasks, including analytical paragraphs, creative writing, and multimedia reflections. The portfolio approach encourages ongoing feedback and revisiting work, promoting continuous improvement and meaningful connections with texts studied in class. As Semester 1 concludes, students are finalising their portfolios for assessment, and we are proud of the range and quality of work produced.
Year 12 English students have begun preparing for their HSC trial exams, which will commence in Week 3 of Term 3. Trials represent a vital opportunity for students to practise essay writing and textual analysis under exam conditions. Teachers have been providing targeted revision sessions, sample responses, and strategy workshops focused on areas such as close reading, essay planning, and critical response. Students are encouraged to use the upcoming holidays to consolidate their understanding and consult with teachers for additional support as they gear up for these important assessments.
Reading for pleasure and discovery remains a cornerstone of the work at our school. Ms Kasparian’s Library Reading Challenge has been a highlight this semester, continuing to motivate students from Years 7 to 12 to widen their reading choices and explore new genres. The challenge involves setting personal reading goals, sharing book reviews, and participating in literary discussions in the library. This initiative has built a vibrant reading culture at JJ Cahill, with many students recommending titles to their friends and engaging in the joy of reading.
Drama
Our Drama program strives to ignite confidence, creativity, and imagination in students, whether they are exploring performance or stagecraft. This term, Mr Sneddon has been working closely with the Year 12 Drama class as they approach the final stages of their HSC group and individual performance projects.
These projects require students to devise, rehearse, and refine original performances, drawing on skills both in acting and technical production. Mr Sneddon has provided invaluable support through constructive feedback, one-on-one coaching, and group workshops, ensuring that each student is well-prepared for the rigorous requirements of the HSC. The dedication, teamwork, and innovation displayed by the Year 12 Drama students have been exceptional, and we anticipate compelling performances in the upcoming examinations.
As we approach the end of semester, faculty teachers are busy finalising comprehensive reports for students in Years 7–10. These reports reflect student progress, strengths, and areas for growth, offering families detailed feedback from subject teachers and guidance for the term ahead.
To all students and families, we extend our thanks for your ongoing support, engagement, and collaboration throughout Semester 1. We wish everyone a safe, restful, and happy holiday, and look forward to continuing our learning journey together in Semester 2.