English

Studying English at Pennant Hills High School invites students to explore how language shapes our world. From classic literature to contemporary texts, students engage deeply with novels, plays, poetry, and media that challenge them to think critically, empathise with others, and develop their own voice as confident communicators.

Students encounter a rich variety of texts that reflect diverse cultures, perspectives, and ideas. From Shakespearean drama to modern Australian writing, film studies, and digital storytelling, the English curriculum encourages students to connect personally with what they read, view, and create—building both analytical and creative skills.

English lessons at Pennant Hills High are dynamic, interactive, and inclusive. Students collaborate through discussion, drama, debates, and creative projects, making learning both meaningful and enjoyable. The classroom environment supports every learner, fostering confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong appreciation of literature and language.

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Stage 6

English

This stage focuses on developing skills in oral language, reading comprehension, written composition, and vocabulary. Students learn to understand and respond to a variety of texts, including novels, drama, and film, while also analyzing language features, text structures, and visual elements. Topics covered often include drama (plot, character, dialogue), film analysis, and understanding visual texts.

This stage focuses on developing students' skills in critical and imaginative thinking through a range of language-based activities. Students engage with diverse texts and media to develop their ability to communicate effectively for various purposes and audiences through composing, responding, and analyzing.

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English Standard

This course focuses on developing students into confident and effective communicators through the analysis and study of a wide variety of texts. The course aims to develop students' skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing, and representing, allowing them to analyse, refine, and reflect on texts and their own learning processes.

English Studies

This is for students who are seeking an alternative to the English Standard course who wish to refine their skills and knowledge in English and consolidate their literacy skills. Students studying English Studies who want to obtain an ATAR must sit the HSC examination.

English Advanced

The focus is on developing sophisticated literacy skills through the study of a wide range of texts, including a specific focus on literary works. Students will study texts from different cultures, time periods, and media, and will learn to analyze how language and structure create meaning.

English Extension 1

This is an advanced, one-unit course for students taking Advanced English. It focuses on in-depth exploration and analysis of literary texts, developing advanced skills in conceptualisation, critical and creative writing, and independent investigation through a shared module and a chosen elective.

English Extension 2

The pinnacle of HSC English study at Pennant Hills High is the much-anticipated Feast Night — a literal and metaphorical feast for the senses. This special evening celebrates the remarkable achievements of our English Extension 2 students, who share excerpts from their original Major Works with peers, teachers, and families. It’s a night that showcases the creativity, passion, and depth of thought that define English at Pennant Hills High School.

English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)

The focus is on developing language, literacy, and literature skills through responding to and composing various texts. Key features include studying a range of literary and non-literary texts, including those from Australia and about intercultural experiences.

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