Scotch College

ENGLISH Year 10 — 2010

Extension English [Semester Unit]

Rationale

This semester unit is designed for boys who wish to extend their study of English and literature through a challenging study of some of the world’s great literary works. In addition to a study of a variety of texts in a range of genres, this unit provides an opportunity for boys to pursue their own independently negotiated study of a topic in a field of particular interest to them.

Student Outcomes

• develop a wider and deeper range of analytical skills by which to view critically a range of texts and genres.
• develop a more detailed awareness of character, theme, authorial concerns, cultural influences and irony.
• become more confident in both oral presentation and writing a detailed, convincing and sophisticated argumentative essay with evidence based on detailed analysis
• show an ability to work independently in order to gain a deeper understanding of a particular area of literary interest.

Course Content

• An introductory literary study of influential ideas about human nature, society and culture through a selection of great literary works in a range of genres. (Novels, poems and plays).
• A major independent literary project will be designed and completed by each student in negotiation with their teacher
• Performance: dramatic recitation of a poem and written imitation of a poetic form; a performance reading of an extract of original prose; or an opportunity to participate in a performance of a Shakespearean excerpt in conjunction with the Drama Department
• The opportunity to engage in specialised workshops and events with either a writer in residence and/or a university guest.

Assessment

• Literary Review
• Major Literary Project
• Performance
• Examination