7-10 English
Effective communication is essential to our daily living which is why the study of English is central to the learning and development of all our students.
Reading & Viewing
Students learn how to understand, interpret and critically analyse a range of texts and media. They explore novels, memoirs, films, documentaries, poetry and news media. In the junior years, emphasis is placed on the development and knowledge of reading comprehension strategies.
Writing
Students are taught the processes of conceiving, planning, writing, editing and publishing a range of texts. They learn to use appropriate language for particular purposes both formal and informal. Students are required to produce a folio of writing throughout the year that demonstrates their ability to write narrative, creative, persuasive and analytical pieces.
Speaking & Listening
Students learn to present their ideas through informal discussions as well as formal presentations. They develop active listening strategies and respond to what they have heard. They learn how to use body language and tone of voice to improve communication. Throughout each year level, students are taught oral presentation skills through various activities such as debating, and persuasive & informative speeches.
Junior English
Students in year 7/8 classes cover the following areas of study:
- Narrative Writing
- Using Language to Persuade
- Text Analysis
- Media Analysis
- Oral presentations & listening tasks
Mid English
Students in year 9/10 classes cover the following areas of study:
- Narrative Writing
- Using Language to Persuade
- Text Analysis
- Comparative Text Analysis
- Creative Response to a Text
- Media Analysis
- Debating
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Thomastown Secondary College is proud of its diverse community and the different cultures represented. Through the English as an Additional Language (EAL) program, recently arrived students are provided with specialist tuition to develop their skills in English and to increase their understanding of Australia.
Generally, EAL classes are smaller than mainstream classes. They are available to those students who have been studying in English for seven years or less and operate at all levels from years 7-12, providing students with an excellent learning environment.
Junior EAL
At years 7 and 8, EAL is incorporated into the English program whereby every year 7/8 classroom in the school has two teachers- an English teacher and an EAL trained teacher. Together the English and EAL teacher plan and cater for the students’ individual needs.
Mid EAL
At years 9 and 10, EAL is a separate subject that gives intensive study in English and also complements other subjects studied. Students increase their English language skills by developing listening and speaking skills, increasing reading skills to gain information and improving writing skills. Students will also gain understanding and confidence to be successful in all school activities. Students are assessed using the EAL Continuum.