ENG1: English

The study of literature and language is a shared journey that aims to foster belonging and connection through the exploration of texts and ideas. The study of Aotearoa New Zealand, Pacific, and world literature contributes to ākonga developing sense of identity, their cultural capital, their understanding of heritage, and of the world. Through experiencing this shared journey, ākonga can appreciate and enjoy texts in all their forms and gain the skills to tell their own stories.

English explores the following 'Big Ideas':

• Language and literature give us insights into ourselves and others

• The stories of Aotearoa New Zealand are unique taonga tuku iho

• Stories are a source of joy and nourishment

• Communication depends on shared codes and conventions

• Literature, language, and texts embody power relationships

Level 1 English is a requirement for most trades and courses. It provides a vital base of literacy skills for life as well as for further study or careers.

In 2025, ākonga will choose between the following courses:

Semester One

• Star-Crossed Lovers

• Protest Songs

• Lost Generations & New Worlds

Semester Two

• A Nation Divided

• Outsiders

• Choices: Life's Defining Moments and Crossroads

Further information about these courses is available in this linked document. 

Understanding, using, and creating oral, written, and visual texts of increasing complexity is at the heart of English teaching and learning. By engaging with text-based activities, ākonga become increasingly skilled and sophisticated speakers and listeners, writers and readers, and presenters and viewers. This equips ākonga to be able to form developed ideas and to communicate them with confidence, participating critically in their communities, society, and in the wider world.

Ākonga will develop their understanding of ideas, language features, writing conventions, how texts are created and structured for different purposes and audiences, and how to demonstrate understanding of specific aspects of texts.

Ākonga can gain 10 Level 1 credits from two internal achievement standards and will have the opportunity to prepare for a further 10 credits from two external standards. 

• Standard 91924 - Demonstrate understanding of how context shapes verbal language use (internal)

• Standard 91925 - Demonstrate understanding of specific aspects of studied text (internal)

• Standard 91926 - Develop ideas in writing using stylistic and written conventions (external)

• Standard 91927 - Demonstrate understanding of significant aspects of unfamiliar texts (external)

Course endorsement in English can be gained by passing three standards (15  Level 1 English credits) at either Merit or Excellence. Students who have not yet passed the Literacy Corequisites will also have the opportunity to prepare for and sit the Literacy Reading and Literacy Writing Exams (5 credits each) 

• Chrome Book and Headphones

• Clever Kiwi Lined Assignment Book

• Document Wallet and lined refill

Texts supplied by the English Department.