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ENGLISH & LITERATURE
“In 2021, we have pivoted into a fearless and resilient mindset.” Ceri Lloyd
2021 was a year like no other with ongoing lockdowns and many weeks of online classes which has tested us all. The word pivot has been frequently aligned to our shift to online learning but in my view the pivot has well and truly been replaced by our fearless and resilient mindset to teach and learn in this online environment. Our central goal is always to deliver an engaging and dynamic learning experience for students, teaching them self-efficacy and adaptive expertise. This mindset was clearly evident in the innovative curriculum developed in the English Faculty throughout 2021.
Year 10 English Extended Research Investigation Commencing in Term 3, this new Unit of Study allows students to develop and extend their knowledge and skills in independent research, carry out investigations focusing on rigorous research questions and write academic essays.
Years 10 and 11 Independent Learning Tutorials and Masterclasses in English A blended model of learning was introduced with asynchronous Masterclass lectures on historical contexts, views and values and literary devices in texts, as well as writing text essays, revision for examinations and study skills. The implementation of the Masterclasses allowed the Faculty to see positive outcomes for senior students in terms of more flexibility in their learning, reinforcing their key skills and allowing for more independence as they controlled the pace of their learning.
Years 7 and 8 English Honours Class – Write a Book in a Day Combining their passion for creative writing, the Years 7 and 8 English Honours classes took part in the innovative Write a Book in a Day competition. Students were given ten hours to write, illustrate and submit a storybook targeted to a youth audience. The completed books were uploaded to an online library and have also been included in the Barbreck and Nicholas Library fiction collection. As I write this article, I reflect on the fact that this will be my final article as Head of English as I move into a new role in 2022. I take the opportunity to express my immense gratitude to the teachers in the Faculty for their unwavering commitment to delivering the English programs at St Catherine’s and for showing such resilience throughout 2021.
Mrs Ceri Lloyd Head of English & EAL Project Leader: Senior Years Learning Model
