Year 11 English Units 1 and 2
Overview
In Unit 1, Reading and creating texts, you will read two short stories and a novel. You will write a creative response to one of the short stories; you will write an analytical response to the novel.
In Unit 1, Analysing and presenting argument, you will study how the media influence their audience through words and images. You will learn to analyse media articles in essays and also learn how to write and perform your own persuasive oral presentation.
In Unit 2, Reading and comparing texts, you will watch one film and read a selection of poems. You will then respond to these texts through comparative and analytical examination.
In Unit 2 Analysing and presenting argument, you will continue to examine conventions in media articles and look at how they influence us. You will deepen your understanding of the process by analysing and comparing the ways in which argument and language can influence audiences.
Who is it for?
VCE English Units 1 and 2 is one of the English subjects you can undertake in order to qualify for a VCE certificate. English is the subject most students enrol in to complete their VCE. Check the VCE requirements around English subjects prior to choosing your program. You must complete three English units, which can include English, Foundation English, Literature or English Language in order to be eligible for a VCE certificate. You must have at least one sequence of Units 3 and 4 English subjects.
English Units 1 and 2 will appeal to you if you enjoy writing and wish to expand your skills in reading critically, thinking about social issues and speaking and writing about experiences.
Note: VSV does not currently offer English Language Units 1 and 2, and Units 3 and 4.
What do you do?
Activities you will engage in include:
- writing both short and long responses to texts of many kinds
- exploring your own ideas in writing about a range of big ideas and concepts
- reading and analysing articles designed to influence us in the media
- writing opinion pieces and preparing presentations with a view to influencing others
- developing skills to help you present ideas and viewpoints orally.
What skills do you need?
You need to be able to read texts independently, write clearly and fluently, and be able to participate in class discussions. If you are returning to education or have interrupted study experiences, you will be able to gain the necessary skills with practice and support.
What skills do you develop?
In English Units 1 and 2 you will develop the ability to:
- read and evaluate texts and forming your own interpretations of them
- support your analysis with textual evidence
- identify contention, arguments, tone and language devices within persuasive texts
- compare themes, issues and ideas between texts which explore related subject matter
- present your own point of view to an audience in an engaging manner.
Requirements
You must have access to the internet to access this course. All work will be completed and submitted online weekly.
Semester 1:
The Ink Bridge (Neil Grant), you will need to buy this text.
You will study the following short stories; ‘On Her Knees’ and ‘Forest Winter’ by Tim Winton. These are available within the course materials.
Semester 2:
You will study the film Slumdog Millionaire (Danny Boyle); this is available within the course materials.
You will study a selection of poems; these are available within the course materials.
Things to think about
To experience success with English it is important to read every day – as much and as widely as possible – and not only what is required within the course. This will help you to strengthen all aspects of your language skills and let you see how other people express themselves. It is also important to take notice of current affairs and discuss your ideas with others.
Look at the other English courses available at VSV and consider whether you are best suited to English or Literature. If you are not sure, speak to a year level coordinator at VSV.
You need to complete at least one of the English subjects outlined above in order to be eligible for a VCE certificate.
Things you can do now
You must purchase and read The Ink Bridge before the beginning of Unit 1. If possible view Slumdog Millionaire.
Read a variety of newspapers (e.g. The Age, The Australian and Herald Sun) to see how the same issue can be approached in different ways.
Go to the VCAA website for more information about this subject.