English study is mandatory in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.
English
The study of English involves learning, thinking and writing critically and imaginatively. English thus provides the foundation for a dynamic and enriching engagement with the community.
Knowledge, understanding and skills
Through responding to and composing a wide range of texts and through the close study of texts, students will develop knowledge, understanding and skills in order to:
- communicate through speaking, listening, reading, writing, viewing and representing
- use language to shape and make meaning according to purpose, audience and context
- think in ways that are imaginative, creative, interpretive and critical
- express themselves and their relationships with others and their world
- learn and reflect on their learning through their study of English.
The English faculty at Gosford High School is an energetic, highly experienced and committed team, well matched to the needs of our gifted and talented students. Our innovative teaching and learning programs break down the walls of traditional teaching with inquiry-based learning and an emphasis on fostering creativity and critical thinking, and integrating technology.
In Years 7 to 10, students are required to study a variety of quality texts including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, film media and multimedia that are appropriate to their needs, interests and abilities. To reflect the rich diversity of the school population a range of complexity, themes and cultural orientations is reflected through the texts. This diversity is also evident in the broad scope of the material studied. The texts become increasingly sophisticated as students move from Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8) to Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10).
In the senior school, all students study the English Advanced or English Standard courses. Extension English courses continue to be popular with students and some choose to undertake the Extension 2 English in Year 12. Over the years , a number of our students have had their major works in the prestigious Young Writers Showcase, an anthology of some of the extraordinary Major Works in print, sound and visual media submitted for the HSC English Extension 2 course.
Students from Years 7 to 11 compete in writing and reading competitions. Our students are also encouraged to enter other competitions offered such as the What Matters? ( Whitlam Institute) Competition and ‘The Sydney Morning Herald Young Writers' Competition.
Gosford High School has a flourishing culture in public speaking and debating and our students participate in a range of competitions conducted by the Department of Education. Workshops are held at school to develop students’ speaking and debating skills. Students from all years seek to be involved in these activities and are supported by the enthusiasm and commitment of members of the English faculty.