Year 7 & 8 Administrative & Course Handbook

ENGLISH ENGLISH During Year 7 and Year 8 students are required to complete a variety of written tasks which incorporate vocabulary, spelling, punctuation, grammar, editing and drafting skills. Students will study and analyse a variety of texts (some of which may include fiction, poetry, newspapers, magazines and film) and respond in a variety of styles. They will develop listening and speaking skills via formal and informal presentations and discussion. They will also be encouraged to read widely, (this may include fiction and nonfiction). SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE • Planning and structuring writing, with particular attention to paragraph and sentence structure. • Learn to develop core writing conventions (grammar, punctuation and other elements of syntax). • Identify and analyse underlying themes within texts. • Construct and deliver oral presentations. INDEPENDENT READING PROGRAM In Independent Reading, students will read, analyse and form opinions on novels that they choose based on their interest and ability. Students will reflect on what they have read each lesson by responding to writing prompts of varying difficulty. They will also complete a variety of literacy activities designed to support the development of writing organisation, vocabulary and conventions. SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE • Increase student vocabulary and improve selection of words when forming sentences. • Develop a better understanding of writing style including the importance of variety in sentence length and structure. • Improve use of language conventions including grammar and spelling. • Development of higher order thinking skills. QUICKSMART PROGRAM In QuickSmart, selected students will work independently and in small groups to improve a wide variety of literacy skills. This intensive program is designed to provide individual support to students. The teaching strategies used in this program will be designed around the needs of the individual and will assist students in developing confidence in the areas of reading, comprehension, speaking and listening. SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE • Increase student vocabulary. • Develop reading fluency. • Improve student ability to interpret a variety of texts. YEAR 7 & 8 ADMINISTRATIVE & COURSE HANDBOOK CONTENTS