Language & Literature 

Year 9: the horror 

This popular and engaging genre is our focus this term. We began by considering what constitutes reviewing novels and films that students were familiar with. In groups, students explored one of the subgenres of horror, citing examples and then presenting this information to the class.

We read and discussed Sam Leith’s article, “Do you know what today’s kids need? Thumb amputation, that’s what” and an article, “Why do some brains enjoy fear?”

Students used a Shelley Williams' poem as a prompt for creating their own poem about nightmares. Edgar Allan Poe’s iconic poem The Raven  provided a rich source for examination. Students worked in pairs to unpack the stanzas, examining the meaning and the literary devices used and rewriting them in contemporary language.

We listened to Christopher Walken's superb reading of The Raven  and were amused by The Simpsons’ take on it. Students utilised all this information to write a formal analysis.

The next instalment is the students’ own Horror stories…

Year 10: short stories

During this unit we have been reviewing what constitutes a short story. What makes these authors such remarkable short story writers? They are true masters at combining the five key elements that go into every great short story: character, setting, conflict, plot and theme.

Students have used the five basic elements of short story-writing to closely study texts; these have included work by Evan Hunter, Roald Dahl, Edgar Allan Poe and Shirley Jackson.

For each story, the students were required to complete a forensic task of identifying from the text evidence of each of the elements. The challenge, as literary detectives, was to discuss and justify what purpose this evidence served in shaping the reader’s interpretation. Knowledge of literary devices was crucial to success at this stage!

Students are seeking short stories of their choice, to ultimately select one to review. There is a wealth of stories about and students will be able to target their interests and favourite genre.

June McKenzie

Teacher of Language & Literature Years 9 & 10