ENGLISH DOMAIN
Hannah Banks
English Instructional Leader
English is important for helping you appreciate diversity, develop sensitivity and, perhaps most importantly, contribute to your future by crafting your writing and critical thinking.
In the English Domain, we foster an appreciation for a wide variety of texts and empower you to develop your own interpretations of the texts we study. You interpret, create, evaluate, discuss and perform a wide range of literary texts in which the primary purpose is aesthetic, as well as texts designed to inform and persuade. These include various types of media texts, including newspapers, film and digital texts, fiction, non-fiction, poetry, dramatic performances and many others.
Students complete English as a compulsory part of their VCE Studies. From 2025, VCE English Language and VCE English Literature are offered as extension options via an application and interview process. Successful students can choose to replace Core English with English Language/Literature or complete it in addition to Core English.
9 English A - The Road to Winter
- Analyse and discuss the ways dystopian worlds investigate control, individuality, fear and politics
- Create a variety of written works. These include imaginative pieces like stories, informative texts such as procedures and reports, persuasive writing like discussions, literary analyses, transformations of existing texts, and reviews of books or movies
- Look at the way argument is created and conveyed through language choices, verbal and non-verbal persuasive techniques
Subject Code: P1ENA
Year Level: 9
What is the book about?
After a deadly virus and violent upheaval, Finn survives alone on the coast with his dog. When Rose, an escaped asylum seeker, seeks his help, Finn's isolation is shattered. Her sister, Kas, is still missing, and a dangerous gang led by Ramage is determined to reclaim them. A gripping tale of survival, friendship, and the fight against evil.
What will I learn?
In Year 9 English, we explore different types of texts to have fun and think critically about central ideas. We read, understand, evaluate, and talk about artistic texts. We also study different kinds of media texts, like newspapers, movies, and digital texts. These texts are made to give information or convince people. We also learn about different ways that texts can be presented, like using pictures or videos. In Year 9, we start to think critically about the media we see and learn about the differences between different types of media texts. We also explore how language can be used to persuade others and construct strong arguments, helping us analyse and understand the power of words.
What will I do?
- Read and discuss the novel "The Road to Winter" by Mark Smith
- Write text response essays and creative responses based on this text
- Learn about the way that language can be used to persuade and manipulate readers and viewers
Where can this take me?
Subjects: any Year 10 English.
Careers/Jobs: Literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways.
Duration:
1 semester.
9 English B - The Emperor's Soul
- Explore elements of the fantasy genre including magic, other worlds, universal themes, heroism, special character types, talking animals and fantastic objects
- Create a variety of written works. These include imaginative pieces like stories, informative texts such as procedures and reports, persuasive writing like discussions, literary analyses, transformations of existing texts, and reviews of books or movies
- Look at the way argument is created and conveyed through language choices, verbal and non-verbal persuasive techniques
Subject Code: P1ENB
Year Level: 9
What is the book about?
In this enthralling story set in the world of Elantris, a thief with forbidden magical abilities must save herself from death by using her skills to create a new soul for the dying emperor. Along the way, she faces challenges and deals with people who have unfair opinions about her. It's a thrilling adventure full of magic and surprises.
What will I learn?
In Year 9 English, we explore different types of texts to have fun and think critically about central ideas. We read, understand, evaluate, and talk about artistic texts. We also study different kinds of media texts, like newspapers, movies, and digital texts. These texts are made to give information or convince people. We also learn about different ways that texts can be presented, like using pictures or videos. In Year 9, we start to think critically about the media we see and learn about the differences between different types of media texts. We also explore how language can be used to persuade others and construct strong arguments, helping us analyse and understand the power of words.
What will I do?
- Read and discuss the novel "The Emperor's Soul" by Brandon Sanderson
- Write text response essays and creative responses based on the set text
- Learn about the way that language can be used to persuade and manipulate readers and viewers
Where can this take me?
Subjects: any Year 10 English.
Careers/Jobs: Literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways.
Duration:
1 semester.
9 English C - Sister Heart: A Story of the Stolen Generation
- Examine the way Australian characters have grown, changed and experienced events in their life
- Create a variety of written works. These include imaginative pieces like stories, informative texts such as procedures and reports, persuasive writing like discussions, literary analyses, transformations of existing texts, and reviews of books or movies
- Look at the way argument is created and conveyed through language choices, verbal and non-verbal persuasive techniques
Subject Code: P1ENC
Year Level: 9
What is the book about?
A young Aboriginal child is forcefully separated from their homeland in northern Western Australia and sent to a mission in the south to learn the white way of living. In this new place, they gradually rebuild their life and, amidst heartbreaking circumstances, discover comfort and resilience through newfound friendships. "Sister Heart" celebrates the enduring strength of family and kinship bonds experienced by the Aboriginal people who were stolen from their families.
What will I learn?
In Year 9 English, we explore different types of texts to have fun and think critically about central ideas. We read, understand, evaluate, and talk about artistic texts. We also study different kinds of media texts, like newspapers, movies, and digital texts. These texts are made to give information or convince people. We also learn about different ways that texts can be presented, like using pictures or videos. In Year 9, we start to think critically about the media we see and learn about the differences between different types of media texts. We also explore how language can be used to persuade others and construct strong arguments, helping us analyse and understand the power of words.
What will I do?
- Read and discuss the novel "Sister Heart" by Sally Morgan
- Write text response essays and creative responses based on the set text
- Learn about the way that language can be used to persuade and manipulate readers and viewers
Where can this take me?
Subjects: any Year 10 English.
Careers/Jobs: Literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways.
Duration:
1 semester.
9 English D - Gallipoli: The journey of an Australian soldier
- Explore and analyse the way historical conflicts shape the experiences of the people involved in them
- Create a variety of written works. These include imaginative pieces like stories, informative texts such as procedures and reports, persuasive writing like discussions, literary analyses, transformations of existing texts, and reviews of books or movies
- Look at the way argument is created and conveyed through language choices, verbal and non-verbal persuasive techniques
Subject Code: P1END
Year Level: 9
What is the book about?
Lying about his age, and looking for adventure, 14-year-old Victor March enlists in the 10th Battalion of the AIF, embarking on a journey to the Gallipoli peninsula alongside his newfound comrades Fish, Needle, and Robbo. As they arrive at Anzac Cove on 25 April 1915, Victor becomes witness to a significant turning point in his life. Through his diary entries, he chronicles the challenges, camaraderie, personal anxieties, and the extraordinary tale of Australia's most renowned military endeavour.
What will I learn?
In Year 9 English, we explore different types of texts to have fun and think critically about central ideas. We read, understand, evaluate, and talk about artistic texts. We also study different kinds of media texts, like newspapers, movies, and digital texts. These texts are made to give information or convince people. We also learn about different ways that texts can be presented, like using pictures or videos. In Year 9, we start to think critically about the media we see and learn about the differences between different types of media texts. We also explore how language can be used to persuade others and construct strong arguments, helping us analyse and understand the power of words.
What will I do?
- Read and discuss the novel "My Australian Story: Gallipoli" by Allan Tucker
- Write text response essays and creative responses based on the set text
- Learn about the way that language can be used to persuade and manipulate readers and viewers
Where can this take me?
Subjects: any Year 10 English.
Careers/Jobs: Literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways.
Duration:
1 semester.
9 English E - I am Malala
- Explore the portrayal and representation of powerful and resilient female characters
- Create a variety of written works. These include imaginative pieces like stories, informative texts such as procedures and reports, persuasive writing like discussions, literary analyses, transformations of existing texts, and reviews of books or movies
- Look at the way argument is created and conveyed through language choices, verbal and non-verbal persuasive techniques
Subject Code: P1ENE
Year Level: 9
What is the book about?
When the Taliban seized control of Pakistan's Swat Valley, Malala Yousafzai bravely spoke up for education rights. Shot at fifteen, she defied expectations by surviving. From a remote valley to the United Nations, her journey became extraordinary. I am Malala tells the story of a family displaced by terrorism, the fight for girls' education, and the unwavering love of parents. This inspiring memoir showcases the transformative impact of one person's voice in shaping change.
What will I learn?
In Year 9 English, we explore different types of texts to have fun and think critically about central ideas. We read, understand, evaluate, and talk about artistic texts. We also study different kinds of media texts, like newspapers, movies, and digital texts. These texts are made to give information or convince people. We also learn about different ways that texts can be presented, like using pictures or videos. In Year 9, we start to think critically about the media we see and learn about the differences between different types of media texts. We also explore how language can be used to persuade others and construct strong arguments, helping us analyse and understand the power of words.
What will I do?
- Read and discuss the novel "I am Malala" by Malala Yousafzai with Patrick McCormick
- Write text response essays and creative responses based on the set text
- Learn about the way that language can be used to persuade and manipulate readers and viewers
Where can this take me?
Subjects: any Year 10 English.
Careers/Jobs: Literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways.
Duration:
1 semester.
9 English F - The Story of Tom Brennan
- Discuss and analyse a range of issues that teenagers often deal with
- Create a variety of written works. These include imaginative pieces like stories, informative texts such as procedures and reports, persuasive writing like discussions, literary analyses, transformations of existing texts, and reviews of books or movies
- Look at the way argument is created and conveyed through language choices, verbal and non-verbal persuasive techniques
Subject Code: P1ENF
Year Level: 9
What is the book about?
Seventeen-year-old Tom's life revolves around rugby, friends, and his respected family in a small town. A fateful night alters everything: a party fight, a car accident, and tragic consequences. With Daniel in jail, the Brennans must relocate. Tom and Kylie adapt to a new school, while their family grapples with pain and debts. Tom is a survivor, but he needs a ticket out of the past just as much as Daniel. He will find it in many forms.
What will I learn?
In Year 9 English, we explore different types of texts to have fun and think critically about central ideas. We read, understand, evaluate, and talk about artistic texts. We also study different kinds of media texts, like newspapers, movies, and digital texts. These texts are made to give information or convince people. We also learn about different ways that texts can be presented, like using pictures or videos. In Year 9, we start to think critically about the media we see and learn about the differences between different types of media texts. We also explore how language can be used to persuade others and construct strong arguments, helping us analyse and understand the power of words.
What will I do?
- Read and discuss the novel "The Story of Tom Brennan" by J.C. Burke
- Write text response essays and creative responses based on the set text
- Learn about the way that language can be used to persuade and manipulate readers and viewers
Where can this take me?
Subjects: any Year 10 English.
Careers/Jobs: Literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways.
Duration:
1 semester.
9 English G - Of Mice and Men
- Examine and analyse the power of a dream, loneliness, friendship, powerlessness, prejudice, and the fragility of aspirations
- Create a variety of written works. These include imaginative pieces like stories, informative texts such as procedures and reports, persuasive writing like discussions, literary analyses, transformations of existing texts, and reviews of books or movies
- Look at the way argument is created and conveyed through language choices, verbal and non-verbal persuasive
Subject Code: P1ENG
Year Level: 9
What is the book about?
They are an unlikely pair: George is "small and quick", while Lennie, a man of tremendous size, has the mind of a young child. Yet they have formed a "family," clinging together in the face of loneliness and alienation. Labourers in California's dusty vegetable fields, they hustle work when they can, living a hand-to-mouth existence. But George and Lennie have a plan: to own an acre of land and a shack they can call their own. Steinbeck explores the struggles of two men who face a world filled with unfairness, misunderstandings, and cruelty. Although the story focuses on these two men, it reflects the universal theme of the importance of friendship and shared dreams, which bring purpose and meaning to our lives, regardless of our circumstances.
What will I learn?
In Year 9 English, we explore different types of texts to have fun and think critically about central ideas. We read, understand, evaluate, and talk about artistic texts. We also study different kinds of media texts, like newspapers, movies, and digital texts. These texts are made to give information or convince people. We also learn about different ways that texts can be presented, like using pictures or videos. In Year 9, we start to think critically about the media we see and learn about the differences between different types of media texts. We also explore how language can be used to persuade others and construct strong arguments, helping us analyse and understand the power of words.
What will I do?
- Read and discuss the novel "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck
- Write text response essays and creative responses based on the set text
- Learn about the way that language can be used to persuade and manipulate readers and viewers
Where can this take me?
Subjects: any Year 10 English.
Careers/Jobs: Literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways.
Duration:
1 semester.
9 Intensive English (EAL students only)
- Participate in a personalised program to develop your English skills
- Learn more about Australian history and culture through reading Australian stories as a class
- Work on the sounds and spelling patterns of English to help in all of your classes
Subject Code: P1LEA
Year Level: 9
What will I learn?
This class learns how to improve your speaking and listening skills through different games and activities. You will learn reading and writing skills in English through the study of different texts and how to write for everyday and academic purposes.
This class is for English as an additional Language (EAL) students who need further instruction in English to access the mainstream curriculum. You receive 3 English lessons per week in reading, writing, speaking and listening. You are assessed against the EAL curriculum.
What will I do?
- Learn about Australian history and culture through the study of different texts
- Visit local places to learn about your local environment and community and to assist with the study of particular texts
Where can this take me?
VCE Subjects: Continued Intensive English lessons, VCE English, VCE EAL English, VCE VM Literacy or VPC Literacy.
Duration:
2 semesters (Year).
Pre-requisites:
For students who have recently resettled in Australia.
This is not a subject that can be “chosen”. Students are selected by the EAL Coordinator, Megan Salter.
9 Literacy Skills - Once: a story of a child surviving the Holocaust (VCE VM or VPC Pathway)
- Be supported to explore the personal traits that allow characters and ourselves to survive life’s challenges.
- Build confidence with the written expression of formal language through the use of scaffolds that allow for gradual steps towards Assessment Tasks.
- Focus on functional literacy skills
This is a year long subject so must be selected Semester 1 and 2
Subject Code: P1ELS
Year Level: 9
What is the book about?
The story of a young Jewish boy who is determined to escape the orphanage he lives in to save his Jewish parents from the Nazis in the occupied Poland of the Second World War.
What will I learn?
Literacy is a program designed to improve skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Ideal for anyone thinking that the VCE pathway in Year 11 and 12 might not be for them yet wish to keep developing their English.
What will I do?
- Read and study the novel “Once” by Morris Gleitzman
- Learn to write persuasively
- Develop everyday literacy skills needed to operate in the “real world”
Where can this take me?
Subjects: 10 Literacy Skills, VPC Literacy or VCE VM Literacy.
Careers/Jobs: literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways.
Duration:
2 semesters (Year).
10 Intensive English (EAL students only)
- Participate in a personalised program to develop your English skills
- Learn more about Australian history and culture through reading Australian stories as a class
- Work on the sounds and spelling patterns of English to help in all of your classes
Subject Code: P2LEA
Year Level: 10
What will I learn?
This class learns how to improve your speaking and listening skills through different games and activities. You will learn reading and writing skills in English through the study of different texts and how to write for everyday and academic purposes.
This class is for English as an additional Language (EAL) students who need further instruction in English to access the mainstream curriculum. You receive 3 English lessons per week in reading, writing, speaking and listening. You are assessed against the EAL curriculum.
What will I do?
- Learn about Australian history and culture through the study of different texts
- Visit local places to learn about your local environment and community and to assist with the study of particular texts
Where can this take me?
VCE Subjects: Continued Intensive English lessons, VCE English, VCE EAL English, VCE VM Literacy or VPC Literacy.
Duration:
2 semesters (Year).
Pre-requisites:
For students who have recently resettled in Australia.
This is not a subject that can be “chosen”. Students are selected by the EAL Coordinator, Megan Salter.
10 Introduction to VM/VPC Literacy
- Focus primarily on English skills that could help in future employment or study after leaving school
- Improving communication skills, promoting students leaving the college with functional literacy skills
- Improve grammar basics, spelling and sentence structure
This is a year long subject so must be selected Semester 1 and 2
Subject Code: P2ELS
Year Level: 10
What will I learn?
Ideal for anyone thinking that the VCE pathway in Year 11 and 12 might not be for them yet wish to keep developing their English and literacy skills. You will develop and improve technical aspects of your writing through grammar basics, spelling and sentence structure which will get you ready for life after school. Lesson’s will focus on practical literacy skills that can be applied to a range of ‘real world’ contexts with a clear focus on communication.
What will I do?
- Read and discuss a variety of texts, including one substantial text
- Create a range of different texts including one extended piece
- Learn about the way that language can be used to persuade and manipulate readers and viewers
- Learn how to communicate in a range of different settings (both verbally and in writing)
Where can this take me?
Subjects: VCE VM Literacy or VPC Literacy.
Careers/Jobs: literacy is not only about reading and writing, but it's also to help people understand the complexity of the world and life in general. Literacy skills are invaluable in most career and job pathways. Improved literacy skills allows us to advocate for ourselves and access the world around us.
Duration:
2 semesters (Year).
10 Introduction to English Language
- Analyse the way language is put together in complex ‘real world’ scenarios
- Explore the way words and language reflect who we are and what we believe
- Compare how language is used in Australia and around the world
Subject Code: P2EEL
Year Level: 10
What will I learn?
We familiarise ourselves with linguistic metalanguage (learning new words to describe language) and explore the ways language is used in Australia and around the world. We observe and discuss modern language use and how language is put together.
This subject is aimed at those who LOVE English and enjoy analysing the way language is put together in ‘real world’ scenarios.
What will I do?
- Read widely from a variety of sources provided by the classroom teacher
- Write Analytical Commentaries and linguistic essays
- Research and appreciate the fluent and ever-changing nature of language
Where can this take me?
VCE Subjects: VCE English, VCE English Language.
Careers/Jobs: speech pathology, linguistics, literature studies, arts.
Duration:
1 semester.
10 Introduction to Literature
- Delve deeply into texts, novels and film
- Study the way an author can express their views and values in their writing
- Develop an ability to respond creatively and critically to a variety of texts
Subject Code: P2ELI
Year Level: 10
What will I learn?
You develop a capacity to respond thoughtfully, critically and creatively to texts, novels and film. We consider various interpretations and judgments, and study How the historical significance of an author’s world influences their writing. You develop an ability to respond creatively and critically.
What will I do?
- Write extended pieces that explore ideas and how the author makes meaning
- Read closely from the prescribed texts
- Discuss and listen to a range of interpretations of complex texts
Where can this take me?
VCE Subjects: VCE English, VCE Literature.
Duration:
1 semester.
10 Standard English
- Analyse written and visual texts
- Make links between character development, themes and social context
- Can be chosen to study in Semester 1 and 2
Subject Code: P2ESA
Year Level: 10
What will I learn?
This class best prepares you for VCE English as we analyse both written and visual texts, making links between character development, themes and social context. You engage with not only the character and plot but think about the bigger ideas and understand the way authors use language to position readers to feel a certain way.
Standard English runs in both semesters but we read and analyse different texts in each semester. This means a student taking Standard English in both semesters is covering different texts but building on skills to which they may have already been introduced. It also means that a student could join the subject in Semester 2. This subject would be ideal for students who don’t want to pursue a more challenging English in VCE.
What will I do?
- Discover and analyse novels, plays and films
- Engage with not only the character and plot but think about the bigger ideas and understand the way authors use language to position readers to feel a certain way
- Write text response essays, argument analysis essays and craft persuasive responses
Where can this take me?
VCE Subjects: VCE English (although a student may choose VCE English Language or VCE Literature after consultation with their Standard English teacher).
Careers/Jobs: many university courses require students to have completed VCE English in order to gain entry to the course.
Duration:
1 semester.