Students in Year 8 develop a range of skills in composing and responding to a wide variety of texts. Throughout the year focus is placed on critical thinking as students refine their understanding of the ways texts reflect personal and public worlds. Students engage in a sustainability unit titled 'Making a Difference,' which encourages students to investigate what it means to be a Global Citizen. Students respond to a range of charity websites and speeches made by important international figures. They identify persuasive techniques used by composers and create personal arguments based on issues about which they feel passionate. Students are encouraged to find a 'real world' application for their ideas and develop a persuasive campaign which will include cross-curricular links to Science and Mathematics.
'Introduction to Shakespeare' gives students insight into the world of Elizabethan England and they have the opportunity to experience the language of Shakespeare through the comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream. Close study of a novel allows students to explore concepts such as empathy and the development of characters as well as understanding more about the craft of writing.
Year 8 is a key year for our students to refine their visual literacy skills. Students engage with picture books, film and media to broaden their response to visual texts and ability to use metalanguage. They will create their own picture book and have the opportunity to share these with students from Woonona Public School.
Students also have the opportunity to engage with a range of short stories and non-fiction texts, as well as studying a film based on the concept of 'The Hero's Journey.' This program extends and deepens the knowledge and skills developed in Year 7 and prepares students for their more analytical English studies in Stage 5.