Raffles Girls' School

The study of the English Language recognises that language is a communicative tool which transmits values and culture and it is a medium for the development of aesthetic sensibility. The acquisition of English Language competency would enable the individual to make informed judgments about moral, philosophical and social issues, as well as to be an effective communicator in private and public discourse. Language develops an awareness of the self in relation to the diversity of human experience and it is a powerful tool for personal thought, expression and the development of thinkers, leaders and pioneers, as well as for advocacy.

Key Understandings
Students will understand that Language codifies concepts and relationships Words expand and limit perspectives Language constantly evolves to provide a common code for expression of identity and connection in a community Content, form, and craft shape meaning Meaning is assigned according to schema and frames Shared understanding depends on accuracy of coding and decoding messages
Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to Communicate with sophistication and accuracy, clarity and effectiveness in response to context, purpose and audience Comprehend, appreciate and evaluate a variety of advanced texts and media forms by applying critical reading and creative thinking skills Demonstrate a critical awareness of the dynamic nature of the form and function of language and how it frames our understanding of the world Use language as a means to effect positive change in the local and global community Use language as a tool for self-reflection
Programmes
YEAR 1 The History of English Foundational Grammar The Newspaper: an introduction to Critical Literacy Situational Writing Recitation YEAR 2 Media Literacy Biographies: a writing apprenticeship Oral Presentation YEAR 3 Critical Literacy Expository Essay Persuasive Speech YEAR 4 Argumentative Essay Personal Essay Focused Conversation

English literature

PHILOSOPHY/RATIONALE

Literature rooted in life and centuries of human experience, is a mode of creative expression that engages the reader in the aesthetic domain. The literary tradition, an invaluable and ever-growing resource, gives access to the very best in human thought and culture. The study of literature thus enables the reader to critically examine human experience that leads to greater self-awareness. It provokes thinking about our beliefs and values and invites a personal engagement with ideas in the aesthetic domain. An appreciation of Literature will enhance one’s sensitivity to the power of words and thus, the importance of using them critically and creatively to serve society, making the world a more humane and beautiful place.

Key Understandings
Students will understand that Content, form and craft guide the reader in negotiating meaning Meaning is assigned according to experience across time and space Shared understanding depends on accuracy in encoding and decoding messages Themes facilitate examination of the human condition through the negotiation of different perspectives Literature develops an empathetic imagination that enables one to see how the personal is also universal, in order to cultivate the moral life
Learning Outcomes
As a result of the RGS English Literature programme, students will be able to Appreciate the reading and significance of literature across literary periods and genres, and its contribution to aesthetic and imaginative growth Explore areas of significant, enduring and contemporary human concern, thus developing the sensitivity, compassion and empathy for others and a greater understanding of the self Engage with various types of literary texts so as to critically appreciate writer’s craft and intent Become owners of and participants in literary opinions Contribute creative literary works reflecting literary knowledge and their insights of life
Programmes
YEAR 1 - INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE AS A DISCIPLINE Close-Reading Skills and Literary Analysis Appreciation of Stories via Informed Reader’s Response Features of Stories and Novella Creative-Writing through Prose RGS teams at the National Schools Literature Festival. Caption text read more YEAR 2 - INTRODUCTION TO SHAKESPEAREAN DRAMA AND POETRY Dramatic Genre, Analysis and Performance Poetry and Poetic Forms Close-Reading Skills and Literary Analysis Appreciation of Drama and Poetry via Informed Reader’s Response Creative-Writing through Poetry YEAR 3 - THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENGLISH LITERATURE THROUGH THE AGES The Novel Poetry of a period / Movement / Context Critical Analysis Skills and Sound Interpretation of Literary Works Intertextuality Connections A Poetry Workshop with Jacob Sam La Rose. Caption text read more YEAR 4 - THE STUDY OF LITERATURE AS A POWERFUL VOICE SPEAKING FROM AND FOR ITS TIME The Art of the Short Story Critical Approaches to studying Literature Modern Dramatic Form as Social Commentary Critical Analysis Skills and Sound Interpretation of Literary Works

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