English Language and Literature

The Quest to…

Develop every Queenstownian into a respectful communicator, discerning reader and confident enquirer.

Key Approaches

Reading and viewing widely for leisure and learning, and to keep abreast of current affairs:

• Exposing students to multimodal texts, ranging from online articles via the Quest Reads website, to print materials in the form of age-appropriate, educational magazines.
• Centering units on relatable and interesting themes to provide students with the opportunities to learn about themselves and the world.
• Using multimodal learning materials during lessons to encourage students to make text-to-self and self-to-world connections.

Honing communication skills:

• Students are learning how to listen attentively and speak respectfully through Talk Moves.
• Weaving group projects into the curriculum to provide students with the opportunity to learn collaboratively and leverage on each other’s strengths.

Amplifying student voice:

• Giving students a choice in the unit tasks they want to perform to demonstrate their learning gives students the confidence to take ownership over their own learning.
• Creating a safe space in the classroom and school to encourage students to form and articulate their opinions.

Key Learning Experiences

WHOLE SCHOOL

• Reading Programme
• National Schools Literature Festival
• Debate Club for selected students

LOWER SECONDARY

• Theatre exposure for Lower Secondary students

Key Achievements

• Participation in National Secondary Schools debating championship
• Participation in training workshops conducted by the National Debate Team coaches