English is one of the most important subjects that we place emphasis on as it is universally used across the world.
As the language is mandatory for the Higher School Certificate, we teach it all across the schools, with deep focus on literacy and speech. By learning how to speak English, as well as putting them into writing, it builds character and confidence in students; giving them skills to carry forward to the next level.
Junior School
The aim of English is to enable students to understand and use language effectively while appreciating the language, make meaning in ways that are imaginative, creative, interpretive, critical and powerful.
We also offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) to those who need help in improving their language proficiency.
Our English curriculum:
- Enriching language skills through activities involving speaking and listening, reading and writing, and viewing and representing
- Explores language and literature through working with a wide range of print, spoken, visual, media, multimedia and digital texts
- Encourages students to interpret and express their views, providing the foundation for presentation delivery
- Engaging student creativity through writing in written and digital texts
Middle & Senior School
As their command of English grows, they are able to question, assess, challenge and reformulate information. Students use creative and analytical language to identify, clarify and solve problems. Through examining the contexts of language usage, they learn how meaning is shaped and broaden their capacity for cultural understanding.
From Years 6-8, we teach English and Literacy in our curriculum. We also offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) to those who need help in improving their language proficiency.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) classes
As some students come from non-English speaking backgrounds, we offer EAL support to ease their transition here while improving their language mastery. This allows them to develop their control of language in ways that will help them in lifelong learning, in their careers and in life.
Our teachers are qualified and trained in teaching English to children of non-English speaking backgrounds. Every lesson is designed to help children take part in all aspects of school life through improving:
- Speaking skills
This allows them to take part in group discussions and daily English conversations - Listening skills
Aural comprehension makes it easy for them to understand their teachers and peers - Writing
Expressing their thoughts and voices in writing through the proper usage of grammar and vocabulary
*Note that while a child is receiving EAL support, an additional fee is payable.
Pre-University
In Years 11 and 12, English becomes a compulsory subject in order to receive the Higher School Certificate (HSC). As a 2-unit course, English is currently available at three levels - English Standard, Advanced English and English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D). Students choosing EAL/D must ensure that they meet the guidelines regarding eligibility. We also offer a 1-unit Extension English course. For extension courses, students must study Advanced English to qualify for them
Facilities
AISM's well resourced library caters for nearly every literary taste and many languages. You might see small children being read a story in the amphitheatre, older children listening to a visiting author in the lecture space, or pupils working independently in the learning hubs.
We also provide Apple Mac Labs, which enables whole class exploration, tuition, research, creation, collaboration and opportunities for literacy development.
