The world we live in today is becoming more and more complex and dynamic. Change is a constant factor, especially in terms of technology and communication, and our view of the world is an increasingly global one. The study of English is concerned with preparing students to become confident, thoughtful and informed communicators who feel equipped to deal with the communication challenges and demands of modern life. Students focus on reading, writing, listening, viewing and speaking across a wide range of genres and in many different contexts. Students are encouraged to develop critical literacy skills in order to understand the power and the purpose of both written and spoken language.

The Junior English course is based on the Queensland English Years 1 – 10 Syllabus. Each semester unit consists of two topics and each unit builds upon the previous ones. Over the course of one year students will be expected to complete five written tasks, where at least one will be completed under test conditions, and three spoken tasks. Tasks are standardised, however the focus, theme and texts to be studied are negotiated between the students and the teacher. Within the English program a wide range of texts are chosen for study, including texts drawn from:

	literature: canonical, traditional, contemporary, and literature in translation from a variety of cultures and across history
	scripted drama and drama performed as theatre
	reflective texts such as biographies, autobiographies and journals
	works produced specifically for older adolescents; popular culture; media and multimedia; the emergent technologies of hypermedia
	spoken and written everyday texts of work, family and community life

The English Faculty offers three courses at the Senior Level:

	Senior English which is a prerequisite for most tertiary education.
	Communication English focuses on a practical level of communication and as such, does not lead to University entrance.
	Extension English Literature is a one-year Year 12 subject.

Students must study one English unit in each semester from Year 8 – 12. An overview of typical units studied is here (printable PDF document).

In addition, students are involved in regular spelling, punctuation and grammar learning experiences to develop functional literacy skills.

In Semester 2, Year 10 students choose a pathway to Senior English or Communication English. It is recommended that: students planning to study Senior English complete ENG 390 (Get Ready for Senior)

Students planning to study Communication English should complete SEI 390 (Language and Business)

Regular Excursions and Guests

	Grin & Tonic
	Writer’s In residence
	Voices on the Coast
	Brisbane Writers’ Festival