English

English study is mandatory in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.

In English, students learn about the study and use of the English language in its various textual forms. These encompass spoken, written and visual texts through which meaning is shaped, conveyed, interpreted and reflected. Complexity increases as students progress through their schooling.

Developing proficiency in English enables students to take their place as confident communicators; critical and imaginative thinkers; lifelong learners; and informed, active participants in Australian society. Their understanding of English through knowledge and skills acquisition is essential to their intellectual, social and emotional development.

The study of English should develop a love of literature and learning and be challenging and enjoyable. It develops skills to enable students to experiment with ideas and expression, to become active, independent and lifelong learners, to work with each other and to reflect on their learning.

In Year 11 and 12, the study of English is mandatory. Courses offered include:

• English Extension 2
• English Extension 1
• English Advanced
• English Standard
• English Studies
• English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)
• English Life Skills.

Welcome to the English Faculty at Glenmore Park High School!

The English faculty is focused on developing the whole student through an understanding of themselves and their world through texts.

English is a mandatory subject for Years 7- 12. Within the English classroom across Stages 4 (Years 7 & 8) and Stage 5 (Years 9 & 10) there is a concentration on immersion and developing skills in: speaking, listening, viewing, representing, reading and writing. In Stage 6 (Years 11 & 12) further and more sophisticated skill development takes place as students make their way towards the Higher School Certificate (HSC).

Students develop their skills in these areas through class units of work. Within these units, students participate in a range of activities which are designed to enhance literacy development and encourage students to use English, in all its forms, to communicate their thoughts and feelings effectively and expressively.

Assessment tasks take place throughout all years as we develop our students' abilities and aptitudes to confidently approach the NAPLAN and Higher School Certificate Examinations. A wide range of assessment activities are employed so as to ensure student engagement and provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their abilities in a wide range of contexts.

Technology is an integral part of the English classroom. The use of ICT in its various forms is embedded in all English units. The faculty has access to a bank of laptops as well as several computer rooms and a bank of iPads and these resources are regularly utilised to enhance English studies. Students are encouraged to incorporate their extensive knowledge of ICT into the classroom environment.

Reading for learning is actively pursued in all English classes. With the support of the Library, students are encouraged to participate in the Premier's Reading Challenge. This is not only acknowledged externally but is also imperative in the growth and development of the students' literacy skills. Students in Year 7, 8 and 9 also have access to reading time at the beginning of every English lesson for 10 minutes. The English Faculty has compiled 'Book Boxes' of engaging modern texts as well as classics, both fiction and non-fiction to cater to a wide range of interests and ability levels. Each class has a Book Box to ensure reading material is on hand and students have access to a wide range of reading materials. Students are encouraged to bring the novel they are reading at home to read during this time if they prefer.

Students are encouraged to become involved in extra-curricular activities. Opportunities exist for students to participate in debating, public speaking, and writing, poetry and film competitions. Students are encouraged to attend the GPHS creative writing group 'Pen and Paper' every Friday during lunch in H12. Year 11 and 12 students are encouraged to practise and build their skills in 'Wednesday Workshops' held every Wednesday lunch in H8.

Our Staff