English/Maths News
English Faculty Report
It has been a productive term in the English faculty, and we have been blown away by the quality of work produced by our student across each year group.
Students in Year 8 presented compelling speeches about the Hero’s Journey, focusing on a range of films studied in class. Year 8 teachers were impressed by the poise, confidence and passion displayed by many students in what can be a very nerve-wracking experience! Year 7 and 8 Young Achiever students have been working through a novel study on the book ‘Hatchet’. We’ve been deconstructing and analysing key features of the text to build critical thinking and creativity skills.
Our Year 9 students have completed their study of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. They had a lot of fun reading the insults between the Capulets and the Montagues, and were frustrated and challenged by Shakespeare’s clever use of dramatic irony. Their unit culminated in the creation of visual representations and reflection statements. These pieces demonstrated their understanding of the key themes of the text. Some examples are featured below.
Our Year 10 scholars have recently completed a study of documentaries. They were engaged, challenged and affirmed by the range of texts we set for study, including ‘He Named Me Malala’ and ‘Old People’s Homes for Four Year Olds’. We were impressed by their ability to identify and analyse a variety of techniques used by directors to create meaning. We have just embarked on our final topic centred around dystopian fiction.
Students in Year 11 have started their final course exams. They have worked effectively over this past term working on their final modules. In what has been a difficult year, we have been proud of the students’ determination to continually strive for their personal best. We look forward to beginning the Year 12 courses with the cohort next term.
And finally, the English faculty would like to wish our Year 12 students the best of luck for their upcoming HSC exams. This year group has truly embodied the school’s motto, Persevere, and we know that they will graduate from Henry Kendall High School proud of their achievements. I’d also like to congratulate one of our English teachers, Miss Sasha Fitzgerald, for her incredible efforts as Year 12 Adviser throughout this challenging year.
Enjoy a well-deserved break.
Blake Wawrzyk
Head Teacher English
Maths News
The end of Term 3 is an important time for our senior students. Year 11 have finished their courses and are completing yearly exams. For most students, this is the first experience with a formal exam period and is pleasing to see the knowledge that is being demonstrated.
Year 12 are engaged heavily in preparation for their HSC exams. I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate all Year 12 students on the growth that they have shown throughout their time at Henry Kendall High School and wish them well for the future. Please remember that the entire Mathematics faculty is happy to help you with your HSC preparations. Please visit us in the staffroom or contact us via Google Classroom.
Despite significant complications due to Covid-19, Maths Club has been able to continue in a limited capacity. A huge thank you to Mrs Lill and The Smith Family for overcoming many obstacles to continue this great program for our students. Mrs Lill is currently taking Maths Club applications from Year 11 students. If you are interested or would like more information, please visit the Maths Staffroom.
A similar thanks must also go to Miss Goodacre who has continued to volunteer her time before school on Tuesday’s for Maths and Milo. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, we have had to restrict this program to a different year group each week. However, it remains a great place for students to receive help with their Maths Interested students should listen to the daily notices to find out their allocated time.
To finish, I would like to congratulate our entire student cohort who have continued to engage in all learning activities despite the turbulence of our current world. This behaviour really does reinforce what a great school community we have a Henry Kendall High School.
Have a safe and happy break. Looking forward to Term 4
Mr Matthew Reece
Head Teacher Mathematics