Rationale
The
study of English is fundamental to the learning and development of all young
Australians. It helps create self-assured communicators, imaginative thinkers
and informed citizens. It is through the study of English that individuals
learn to analyse, understand, communicate with and build relationships with
others and with the world around them. The study of English helps young people
develop the knowledge and skills needed for education, training and the
workplace. It helps them become ethical, thoughtful, informed and active
members of society. In this light it is clear that the Australian Curriculum:
English plays an important part in developing the understanding, attitudes and
capabilities of those who will take responsibility for Australia’s future.
Although
Australia is a linguistically and culturally diverse country, participation in
many aspects of Australian life depends on effective communication in Standard
Australian English. In addition, proficiency in English is invaluable globally.
The Australian Curriculum: English contributes both to nation-building and to
internationalisation.
The
Australian Curriculum: English also helps students to engage imaginatively and
critically with literature to expand the scope of their experience. Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander peoples have contributed to Australian society and
to its contemporary literature and its literary heritage through their
distinctive ways of representing and communicating knowledge, traditions and
experience. The Australian Curriculum: English values, respects and explores
this contribution. It also emphasises Australia’s links to Asia.
Content structure
The
Australian Curriculum: English Foundation to Year 10 is organised into three
interrelated strands that support students' growing understanding and use of
Standard Australian English (English). Together the three strands focus on
developing students’ knowledge, understanding and skills in listening, reading,
viewing, speaking and writing. The three strands are:
Language: knowing about the English language
Literature: understanding, appreciating, responding to, analysing
and creating literature
Literacy: expanding the repertoire of English usage