Language Acquisition and Literature (English)

Why study English?

In English students learn real world skills – how to think analytically, interpret meaning accurately and communicate effectively. Literacy in English gives students access to the understanding, knowledge and skills they need to participate fully in the social, cultural, political and economic life of Aotearoa New Zealand and the wider world. To be successful participants, they need to be effective oral, written and visual communicators who are able to think critically and in depth. By understanding how language works, students are equipped to make appropriate language choices and apply them in a range of contexts. Students learn to deconstruct and critically interrogate texts in order to understand the power of language to enrich and shape their own and others’ lives. Students appreciate and enjoy texts in all their forms. The study of Aotearoa New Zealand and world literature contributes to students’ developing sense of identity, their awareness of Aotearoa New Zealand’s bicultural heritage, and their understanding of the world.

Success in English is fundamental to success across the curriculum. All learning areas (with the possible exception of languages) require students to receive, process and present ideas or information using the English language as a medium. English can be studied both as a heritage language and as an additional language. English presents students with opportunities to engage with and develop the key competencies in diverse contexts. What we study in English plays a major part in our making sense of the world and all of its complexity. It also helps students understand their own world and find enjoyment and excitement in the world beyond school.

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Courses in this Department

Trades, Armed Forces, Broadcaster, Reporter, Interpreter, Training Consultant, Librarian, Curator, Communications, Marketing Manager, Reviewer, Teacher, Editor, Lawyer, Publisher, Account Executive, Account Supervisor, Actor/actress, Administration, Administrative & Program Director, Administrative Assistant/Office Mgr., Advertising, Advertising Account Executive, Advertising Sales Representative, Announcer, Application Developer, Archivist, Area Coordinator, Assistant Account Executive, Assistant Editor/Production Editor, Associate Company Manager, Associate Director of Publicity, Associate Editor, Associate/Public Accountant, Attorney, Author, Bank Officer, Book Publisher, Bookstore manager, Broadcast Advertising Manager, Broadcasting, Business Operations Senior Planner, Buyer, Career Counselor, Certified Public Accountant, Child Care Specialist/Teacher, Columnist, Commodities Trader, Communication, Communication Skills Trainer, Communications Assistant, Community Affairs Specialist, Computer Manager/Consultant, Confidential Assistant Exec,