English
Faculty Vision And Rationale
The English Curriculum at Al Amanah College covers a wide range of topics that tap into the interests of teenagers of today’s world. Students explore and connect with a range of texts to stimulate their interests using a range of modes.
With the increasing use of digital technologies, students are now using iPads to write narratives, write the scripts for gaming or even to assess their own and each other’s learning. We encourage active writing in all classes and the use of digital technology makes active writing fun and interesting. The application of their writing skills is interactive and interesting when transferred to games, movies or slideshows where they showcase their talents.
Courses
Within the English Faculty, courses running at Al Amanah College include:
- Year 7-10 English
- English Standard
- English Advanced.
- English Extension 1
- English Extension 2
Students are given the opportunity to choose in the senior years which level of English they wish to undertake. Although a benchmark of results has been set that students are to ensure they achieve for each subject.
Excursions are organised based on readings and texts studied in classes. They may range from plays to interactive workshops, including digital workshops that work cross-curricular with Technology.
Parent Partnership
The English faculty strongly encourages the engagements of texts from students to be formed from their own opinions rather that the opinions of others. We encourage the use of strong authoritative voice. Parents may contribute to improving the written skills of students by reading their work and asking questions about how they formed such opinions. Encouraging students to disconnect from the internet to write essays is of high importance. Students are to learn to engage with their text rather than read what others have written about their texts.
Reading books is of vital importance for students. It is through reading that students will broaden their knowledge and understanding of different styles of writing and use of language techniques. It is also a way to build student confidence in their own writing.
Inspiring the next generation of critical thinkers and creative minds
At Al Amanah College, the English faculty fosters a deep appreciation for language, literature, and communication. Aligned with NSW English syllabus, our program is designed to build strong foundations in literacy, promote analytical and imaginative thinking, and support students to become effective communicators and lifelong learners.
Our English Faculty is committed to
- Developing strong literacy through reading, writing, speaking, and listening tasks.
- Aligning with the reformed NSW English syllabus to offer a relevant and contemporary education.
- Promoting critical and creative thinking through exposure to diverse print, digital, and multimodal texts.
- Integrating digital tools to enhance learning and student engagement.
- Fostering appreciation of literature as a medium for cultural understanding and personal growth.
- Providing differentiated support to help all students achieve syllabus outcomes.
Curriculum Framework
Our curriculum follows the new NESA English syllabus across Stage 4, Stage 5, and Stage 6, ensuring that students develop language proficiency, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills.
Stage 4 (Years 7 & 8) – Laying the Foundations:
In Stage 4, students focus on developing essential literacy skills through a diverse range of literary, digital, and multimodal texts. The curriculum includes:
🔹 Reading & Responding – Exploring novels, poetry, plays, and visual texts.
🔹 Creative & Analytical Writing – Enhancing storytelling and critical analysis.
🔹 Speaking & Listening – Engaging in debates, presentations, and discussions.
🔹 Digital & Media Literacy – Analysing online content and using technology effectively.
Students study texts from a variety of perspectives, including Indigenous, Australian, and world literature, to develop an appreciation for different cultures and viewpoints.
Stage 5 (Years 9 & 10) – Expanding Knowledge & Skills
In Stage 5, students refine their reading, writing, and analytical abilities while deepening their understanding of complex texts. Key focus areas include:
Close Text Study – Analysing themes, language, and structure in literary and digital texts.
Critical & Persuasive Writing – Crafting arguments, essays, and reviews.
Creative Expression – Writing imaginative, persuasive, and reflective pieces.
Multimodal Communication – Using digital tools for storytelling and presentations.
Students also participate in:
Excursions & Workshops – Engaging with authors, poets, and media professionals.
Subject Selection Sessions – Helping students plan for Stage 6 and career pathways.
To prepare for senior studies, students undertake the Minimum Standards Examinations, ensuring they develop the literacy skills required for the Higher School Certificate (HSC).
Stage 6 (Years 11 & 12) – Mastering the English Language
In Stage 6, students choose from different English courses, each designed to support their academic and career aspirations:
English Advanced – A rigorous course focusing on complex literature, sophisticated analysis, and critical thinking.
English Standard – A comprehensive course that develops strong communication and analytical skills across diverse texts.
English Studies (Non-ATAR) – A practical, real-world approach to reading, writing, and communication for everyday contexts.
HSC Text Study – Students engage with prescribed texts, including novels, plays, films, and poetry, to explore big ideas, global issues, and personal experiences.
UAC & University Pathway Sessions – Guiding students through tertiary education and career planning.
Technology in Learning – Using digital platforms for research, collaboration, and creative projects.
Our Stage 6 program challenges students to engage deeply with texts, think independently, and communicate effectively—skills essential for university, the workforce, and lifelong learning.
Teaching Resources & Learning Support
Our English faculty provides a wide range of resources to support student learning:
🔹 Guided Reading & Writing Programs – Step-by-step support for developing literacy.
🔹 Multimedia & Digital Tools – Enhancing engagement through online resources.
🔹 Workshops & Study Sessions – Targeted HSC exam preparation and essay writing skills.
🔹 Personalised Feedback – Individualised support to improve student performance.
Assessments & Homework
Ongoing assessment is aligned with NESA’s English outcomes and designed to monitor progress and guide future learning.
Our approach includes:
Formative Assessments – Ongoing teacher feedback through class discussions, group projects, and quizzes.
Summative Assessments – Formal essays, analytical tasks, and HSC-style examinations.
Oral Presentations – Public speaking activities to build confidence and communication skills.
Creative Projects – Digital storytelling, film analysis, and multimodal assignments.
Homework is structured to:
Reinforce classroom learning and encourage independent study.
Develop research and writing skills through guided tasks.
Prepare students for upcoming assessments and examinations.
Engaging Parents & the Community
Al Amanah College encourages collaboration with families to strengthen literacy development.
To support parents, we offer:
Home Learning Tips – Promoting reading habits and discussion at home.
Parent Workshops – Supporting understanding of curriculum, assessment, and HSC preparation.
Literature Events – Fostering a school-wide culture of reading and shared literacy goals.
For supporting your child, refer to NESA parent guide:
A Future of Literacy & Leadership
The English program at Al Amanah College prepares students to be articulate, reflective, and engaged citizens. With a focus on language mastery, cultural appreciation, and creative expression, students are well-equipped to succeed in higher education, the workplace, and society.