English Studies

Year 11 course

• Students study the mandatory module, Reading to write: Transition to English Studies.

• Students study two to four additional syllabus modules (selected based on their needs and interests).

• Students may also study an optional teacher-developed module.

Year 12 course

• The HSC Common Content consists of one module, Narratives and Human Experiences, which is also common to the HSC Standard and the HSC Advanced courses where students analyse and explore texts and apply skills in synthesis.

• Students study two to four additional syllabus modules (selected based on their needs and interests).

• Students may also study an optional teacher-developed module.

Course Requirements

Across the English Studies Stage 6 course students are required to study:

• texts which are widely regarded as quality literature, including a range of literary texts written about intercultural experiences and the peoples and cultures of Asia

• a range of Australian texts, including texts by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander authors and those that give insights into diverse experiences of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples

• texts with a wide range of cultural, social and gender perspectives

• a range of types of text drawn from prose fiction, drama, poetry, nonfiction, film, media and digital texts.

Year 11 course

Students are required to:

• read, view, listen to and compose a wide range of texts including print and multimodal texts

• study at least one substantial print text (for example a novel, biography or drama)

• study at least one substantial multimodal text (for example film or a television series)

Year 12 course

Students are required to:

• read, view, listen to and compose a wide range of texts including print and multimodal texts

• study at least one substantial print text (for example a novel, biography or drama)

• study at least one substantial multimodal text (for example film or a television series)

OPTION:  Students can sit the  HSC examination and will be reported on a common scale with the English Standard and English Advanced courses

Students choosing not to sit for the English Studies HSC examination will still be eligible for the HSC if they have satisfactorily completed courses that comprise the pattern of study required by NESA

Can I get an ATAR if I take English Studies?

Yes - To be eligible for an ATAR, students studying the English Studies course must complete the optional HSC examination. 

I do not have very good English skills, should I take English Studies?

Yes – this course is designed for students who may find control of language challenging. This course is for students who find it challenging to identify meaning in texts and want to be prepared for workplace literacy skills.