Scotch College

ENGLISH Year 10 — 2012

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.  Boys are also exposed to a range of established literary critical theories, including humanism, Marxist theory, feminist theory, post-colonial criticism, new historicism and cultural materialism.  In addition to a study of a variety of texts in a range of genres and these theories, the unit provides an opportunity for boys to pursue their own independently negotiated extended study of a topic in a field of particular interest to them; this is presented in the form of a major written project (‘mini thesis’). 

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 context/ influences and a range of literary devices and features
• come to understand the nature and role of a literary canon in terms of its social, cultural and literary value and significance
• become familiar with a broad range of influential critical literary theories, and apply knowledge of these theories to classic/canonical texts
• 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 

A 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), eg:

• The Canon – Part 1 (200 BC – 1600 AD):  Classical, Medieval and Renaissance Literature:

Oedipus the King – Sophocles

Beowulf – Unknown author (Seamus Heaney translation)

Renaissance sonnets:

• - Whoso List to Hunt, Thomas Wyatt
• - Sonnet 17, Sonnet 18, William Shakespeare
• - Sonnet 10 (‘Death, be now proud…’), John Donne

Hamlet – William Shakespeare

• The Canon – Part 2 (1700 AD – 1900 AD):  Romantic and Victorian Literature:

Poems from Songs of Innocence and Experience, William Blake:

• - London
• - Holy Thursday (both – from Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience)
• - A Poison Tree

Pride and Prejudice – Jane Austen

The Importance of Being Earnest – Oscar Wilde

• Major independent literary project designed and completed by each student.
• Performance:  recitation or reading.

Assessment 

Examination

Major Literary Project

Literary Review 

Performance