English
English News
Year 8
In their English unit on text responses, Year 8 students studied the novel "Runner" by the Melbourne author Robert Newton. Our students explored the 1920s Richmond slums, created wanted posters for key characters, and conducted character and theme analyses. They learned to structure their responses using the TEEL method, developing coherent arguments with evidence and explanation. Through drafting their work and receiving feedback, students refined their writing skills and gained a deeper understanding of the novel's themes and characters. This unit equipped them with analytical tools and writing techniques that they can apply to future literary studies.
Year 9
The Year 9 students are making their way through their first unit of the year, Reading and Responding. They have been diving deep into the novel "The Giver," an exciting novel on the importance of memories and the dangers of conformity when withholding these memories and history within a community.
The students have been learning key themes of the novel and have been linking them to the real world. Students have engaged in a range of activities to build up their skills in writing succinct contentions and to strengthen their arguments when responding to essay prompts.
The class has been engaging in a weekly debate around potential essay questions. The students are split into 2 groups, which are either agree or disagree. Students then discuss with their group members for 3 strong arguments, evidence and examples from the novel to back up their arguments.
It is wonderful to see how much they have enjoyed this in their presentations to the class.
"This term in Year 9 English we focused on the novel ‘The Giver’ written by Lois Lowry. We discovered the themes, characters and narrative structure of the book. Carefully we picked apart the novel, examining it’s exploration of conformity, individuality and the consequences of a dystopian society. Through collaborative discussions and close readings, we interpreted the symbolism embedded within the text, unravelling its layers of meaning.
Armed with these insights, we synthesized our interpretations into a compelling essay, showcasing our critical thinking skills and literary analysis expertise. As the term comes to an end we have started learning about different cultures and their religions, practices and how they grew up." Sofia Faddoul
Year 11
The Year 11 English students are currently developing their text response essay writing skills; responding to the text I Am Malala. Here are some samples of what they are achieving.
"Malala Yousafzai’s memoir, ghost written by Christina Lamb contends that education enhances individual and societal development, but also exposes how it can perpetuate ignorance. Yousafzai links schooling to personal success and societal functionality but also criticizes religious extremists for preventing growth." Zach Bissett
"In the face of adversity and violence portrayed by the Taliban, Islam served as a source of strength and resilience for Malala and her family. When the Taliban imposed restrictions on girls and education. Malala’s unwavering commitment to her studies was deeply rooted in her faith. She drew motivation from her Islamic teachings that emphasise the pursuit of knowledge as a sacred duty for both men and women…" - Alyssa Hodgson
Ms Sarah Wilson
English Leader