What is it and why should I do it?
English is a continuation of the sort of work you have completed in Years 7 to 10 and particularly in Units 1 & 2 in this subject. Much of the course focuses on the study of texts such as novels, plays, films, short story collections or memoirs. While two of these are studied as individual texts the remaining two texts require you to make comparisons between both. You will explore both the themes and ideas of the text and analyse how the creator has used literary or film devices to convey their ideas. Although most responses will be analytical you will also be able to write creatively on one of the individual texts. The rest of the course will focus on a comparative analysis of how writers use argument and written and visual language to persuade readers to share their point of view. You will also use these skills to write and deliver your own speech.
How much homework/study will I have?
All Unit 3 and 4 subjects require 3-5 hours of study per week.
Students are expected to read (or view film texts) and annotate texts and to complete designated homework before the school year begins. You are also expected to re-read (or view film texts) during the school year. You can expect that there will be homework at the end of each English lesson. This could be unfinished class work or additional work set by the teacher. In the lead up to SACs and the end of year exam the focus will be on practice essays.
What contributes to my study score?
Five SACs and an end of year exam:
SAC 1 Analytical response to a text (40 marks, 10%)
SAC 2 Written piece about Protest and written commentary (40 marks and 20 marks, 15%)
SAC 3 Written analysis of a written persuasive text and a visual/audio-visual text (40 marks, 10%)
SAC 4 Oral presentation: persuasive/point of view speech (20 marks, 5%)
SAC 5 Analytical response to a text (40 marks, 10%)
End of year exam (50%)
How do I satisfactorily complete the unit?
To pass any VCE unit you need to demonstrate that you have met the Outcomes. In English you meet the Outcomes primarily through completion of coursework, participation in class discussions and SACs.
UNIT 3 OUTCOME 1: Reading & Creating texts
On the completion of this unit you should be able to produce a creative response to a selected text with a written explanation of decisions made in the writing process and how these demonstrate understanding of the text. You should also be able to produce an analytical interpretation of a different selected text.
UNIT 3 OUTCOME 2: Analysing Argument
On the completion of this unit you should be able to analyse and compare, in written form, the argument and use of persuasive language in two to three texts that present a point of view on an issue. The texts will include written and visual material.
UNIT 4 OUTCOME 1: Reading & Comparing texts
On the completion of this unit you should be able to write a detailed comparison of how two selected texts present ideas, issues and themes.
UNIT 4 OUTCOME 2: Presenting Argument
On the completion of this unit you should be able to construct a point of view presented in oral form using sound argument and persuasive language. You must also prepare a written statement of intention to accompany your oral presentation, articulating the intention of decisions made in the planning process, and how these demonstrate understanding of argument and persuasive language.