And like that, it’s wrap. Every English class has been engaged in tasks that sees them hone their critical and creative thinking skills. See below for a snapshot of what’s been happening across the English Department.
Year 6/7 Transition lessons
The Year 6/7 transition lessons went down a hit. We pulled out Story Chain and then a Class Project (which saw groups work together to create a movie poster adaptation of their team stories). The students had to respond to the prompt: Write about a rivalry between a puppy and a window… (the students randomly selected the ‘characters’)
The results are always chaotic, but the experience is very fun for the students. I am excited by what the students produced and can’t wait to see how they settle into high school life next year!
Year 7-10 Speaking and Listening
In English this term, speaking has been the primary focus for most cohorts. The development of effective speaking skills is essential for students, as it enhances their confidence and allows them to articulate their thoughts and ideas clearly. Strong speaking abilities also play a vital role in building social connections and developing critical thinking.
In class, students have been actively participating in group discussions, presentations, and making products like podcasts and autobiographical audio narratives.
The Year 7s were tasked with creating and presenting ‘How-to’ videos. Topics ranged from ‘how to draw a katana (a sword)’ to ‘how to make a banango smoothie’. It’s always commendable seeing the Year 7s getting up in front of their peers and manage the stresses associated with public speaking.
The Year 9s are having a lot of fun writing and producing a true-crime podcast. The students are highly engaged, primarily because many are using their teachers as ‘characters’ (read: victims) in their episodes. Students are now in the final stages of recording their scripts. The students have found this challenging, but highly engaging because of the collaborative nature of the task.
Finally, the Year 10s have just recorded and submitted their autobiographical narratives for the ABC Heywire competition. Students have tackled this task with a great deal of maturity, relaying a story from their life where they learned an important lesson. Very sincere and eye-opening, it’s been a wonderful way to conclude the teaching and learning programme.
Year 11 and 12 ATAR
The Year 12 ATAR students completed their WACE exams last week. It was great to see so many enthusiastically return for a debrief about the exam itself (the talking octopus narrative really had the students scratching their heads!). I wish all the Year 12s the best as they navigate the next part of their lives.
The Year 11 students, who also just completed their exams, were equally enthusiastic, but less so about the exams and more so about the extended holiday break. I want to wish them all the best and urge them to take time to rest and reflect. When they return in 2025, it’s pedal to medal until November!
2024 has been an amazing year for the English Department. It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Ms Dale Rooney who is taking a year off. I want to wish her all the best and l can’t wait to see her back in 2026!
2025 will see Mr James England return from Cactus. I am sure he’ll have a few stories from his year off and we’re all looking forward to the return of Monday Muffins!
I now want to wish one and all a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.
Mr Jamie Pearce
Head of Department- English
