Peel High School

Partially selective and feature school for agriculture

Telephone02 6765 7088

Emailpeel-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

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.

Overview

The English faculty at Peel High School is a dynamic, innovative team who work hard to ensure that all students meet their academic potential. Our aim is to create positive classroom learning environments where students from a variety of backgrounds and abilities feel valued and interested in their learning.

In the senior years we offer the full range of English courses. These are suited for those with differing areas of interest and future study or employment goals. The English Studies course is perfect for students looking for a vocational path. The course is designed to be flexible for students completing VET and TAFE courses and those with flexible patterns of study. Standard English is an ATAR path course, where students learn about the ways in which English is used in the modern world. Advanced English is a literature based course designed for those who love language. Finally, we offer English Extension 1 and 2, courses designed for the top achieving students who have a keen interest in literature and composition.

Our junior pattern of study is engaging and seeks to not only support students with identified areas of need but to extend those in need of more challenges. Opportunities are provided for students to experience a range of texts such as novel, poetry, film, non-fiction and digital. Our staff are experts in differentiating learning and assessment to ensure every student has the opportunity to experience educational success.  Please see the attached sample Scope and Sequence for Years 7-10.

English Stage 4 - Year 7 (pdf 253 KB)

English Stage 4 - Year 8 (pdf 280 KB)

English Stage 5 - Year 9 (pdf 193 KB)

English Stage 5 - Year 10 (pdf 28 KB)

Junior Assessment

The English Faculty is leading the way in differentiated assessment for junior years, where tasks are scaffolded to every individual's learning requirements. The tasks have different access points, called ‘Core', ‘Structured' and ‘Extended", and students negotiate with their class teacher about which level to complete.  All junior tasks are structured this way to cater for a range of different needs and abilities. Students are formally assessed each term by a range of different forms, including creative and essay writing, multimedia presentations, collaborative productions and diagnostic assessment tasks.

Senior Assessment

Assessment for the Senior years depends on the specific course. Peel High School offers Advanced and Standard English, English Studies, and Extension 1 and 2 courses. Each of these courses incorporates a specific assessment schedule. To assist your student in preparing for their senior assessment, refer to the Year 11 or Year 12 student handbook which is issued at the beginning of the year to all students.

Drafting Policy

Students, parents and carers are reminded that the English faculty has a formal policy around the submission of draft assessment tasks. Students are permitted to submit a maximum of TWO written drafts to their teacher. These should be submitted no later than 48 hours prior to the due date of an assessment, to allow staff sufficient time to provide feedback and return work to students.

How Parents Can Assist Students with Their Spelling (pdf 164 KB)