VCE | LITERATURE

This subject is one of three choices that satisfy the VCE English study requirements.

Literature involves the study and enjoyment of a wide range of literary texts: classical, popular, traditional and modern. In VCE Literature students undertake close reading of texts and analyse how language and literary elements and techniques function within a text. Emphasis is placed on recognition of a text’s

Year 11

UNIT 1

Students consider how language, structure and stylistic choices are used in different literary forms and types of texts. Students will reflect on the degree to which points of view, experiences and contexts shape reader responses to text. The unit may include readings of film script, novel, short stories and poetry. Students will also complete an oral presentation as part of Unit 1 course work.

On completion of Unit 1 a student should be able to:

• Respond to a range of texts and reflect on influences shaping these responses.

• Analyse the ways in which a selected text reflects or comments on the ideas and concerns of individuals and particular groups in society.

UNIT 2

Students investigate the ideas and concerns raised in texts and the ways social and cultural contexts are represented. They will examine the ways texts explore different aspects of what it is to be human.

On completion of Unit 2 a student should be able to: complexity and meaning, and on consideration of how that meaning is embodied in its literary form. The study provides opportunities for reading deeply, widely and critically, responding analytically and creatively, and appreciating the aesthetic merit of texts.

• To explore and reflect on the voices, perspectives and knowledge in the texts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors and creators.

• Analyse and respond critically and creatively to the ways a text from a past era and/or a different culture reflect or comment on the ideas and concerns of individuals and groups in that context.

• Compare texts considering the dialogic nature of texts and how they influence each other.

Generally, Literature is best suited to students who have achieved strong results in their previous English studies.

Year 12

UNIT 3

Students examine the typical features of different forms of literature, and focus on how the form of a text can contribute to its meanings. They use their knowledge of how the meaning of texts can change as form changes, for example from play script to performance, to construct their own creative transfomations of texts. Students will also complete an oral presentation as part of Unit 3 course work.

On completion of Unit 3 a student should be able to:

• Analyse the extent to which meaning changes when a text is adapted to a different form.

• To develop interpretations of a set text informed by the ideas, views and values of the set text and a supplementary reading.

UNIT 4

Students focus on how different readings of texts can generate different interpretations of their meanings. They will compare and analyse literary criticisms which reflect different perspectives and cultural influences to ultimately develop their own interpretation of the meaning of a text.

On completion of Unit 4 a student should be able to:

• To respond creatively to a text and comment critically on both the original text and the creative response.

• To analyse literary forms, features and language to present a coherent view of a whole text.