English

“That is part of the beauty of all literature. You discover that your longings are universal longings, that you're not lonely and isolated from anyone. You belong.” ―  F. Scott Fitzgerald

“I know nothing in the world that has as much power as a word. Sometimes I write one, and I look at it, until it begins to shine.” ― Emily Dickinson

“Who are we, who is each one of us, if not a combinatoria of experiences, information, books we have read, things imagined?”  ― Italo Calvino

The English Faculty at Ingleburn High School is committed to delivering relevant, engaging, student-centred lessons which focus on developing and refining the literacy, communication and critical literacy skills of every student.

An understanding of the English language is central to how we communicate and essential for intellectual, social and emotional development. In an increasingly complex world, the ability to communicate effectively for a wide variety of purposes and audiences is vital.

As such, English lessons at Ingleburn High School are centred around students reading and comprehending increasingly sophisticated texts, the explicit teaching of students to write detailed, cohesive responses and the enabling of students to express their ideas articulately through informal and formal speaking activities. Conceptual units of work are designed to incorporate 21st century learning skills where students work both independently and collaboratively on learning activities which involve critical thinking and problem solving.

 Goals

• To foster and grow a love of learning and literature in all its forms for all students
• To develop proficiency and excellence in literacy and language, so that students can communicate and interact with confidence and empathy
• To develop collaborative and independent skills that prepare students to engage with the wider world as active, critical and imaginative members of society, families and workplaces

 Features

• As well as the exploration, analysis and appreciation of traditional novels, plays, poems, film and nonfiction texts, students learn to navigate, respond to and produce multimedia texts using digital technology. Lessons are differentiated to ensure that all students' learning needs are met and that success is achieved at all levels.
• Skills-based lessons are built to facilitate a deepening awareness and mastery of the mechanics and nuances of the English language, particularly within the areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening, as well as codes and conventions, textual concepts, viewing and representing.
• Within the junior English courses, students are provided with opportunities to attend excursions and incursions that engage with theatrical productions, powerful speakers and unique local voices.
• Within Stage 6 English, students are encouraged to choose an English course which best suits their interests, needs and aspirations.
• The faculty promotes reading, writing, public speaking through a range of competitions and celebrations such as Book Week.