Learning at DSHS

English

Developing confident, literate communicators — building skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening across Years 7 to 12.

About the Subject

Communication, literacy and critical thinking

English at Denmark SHS develops students' ability to communicate with confidence and clarity across a range of contexts. Students engage with diverse texts — literary, informative and persuasive — to build their analytical, critical and creative capabilities.

The Western Australian English curriculum is structured around the three strands of Language, Literature and Literacy, ensuring students develop a deep understanding of how English works and how to use it effectively in their lives.

Students and teachers engaged in an English lesson at Denmark SHS

Course Offerings

English across the year groups

English is studied by all students from Year 7 to Year 12, with pathways to suit every learner.

In Years 7–10, students follow the Western Australian Curriculum English program. They develop skills in reading and viewing, writing, and speaking and listening. Students study a wide variety of text types — novels, poetry, film, digital texts and non-fiction — and are assessed across all three strands. Extension and enrichment opportunities are available for high-achieving students.

What You Will Develop

Skills for life

Reading & Comprehension

Analysing, interpreting and evaluating a wide range of texts — literary, informative and persuasive.

Writing & Creation

Crafting essays, creative writing, reports and multimodal texts with purpose, clarity and audience awareness.

Speaking & Listening

Presenting ideas confidently in formal and informal contexts — debates, discussions, oral presentations and performance.

Critical Analysis

Evaluating language choices, literary techniques and the relationship between text, context and meaning.

Digital Literacy

Engaging with digital and multimodal texts — understanding how meaning is created across different media and platforms.

Literary Appreciation

Exploring Australian and world literature — novels, poetry, plays and short stories — to develop cultural understanding.

Senior School Pathways

Your English pathway in years 11 & 12

For students aiming for university entry. Develops analytical essay writing, close reading of literary and non-literary texts, and oral communication skills. Assessed through written examination, oral task, and school-based assessment.

Builds strong literacy skills for work, vocational training and further study. Focus on a range of text types including personal, informational and analytical writing. Assessed through a range of practical and extended tasks.

For students with a passion for literary study. Deep engagement with Australian and world literature — prose, poetry, drama and film. Develops sophisticated analytical writing and critical thinking skills.

Pathway Tip

Which English is right for you?

Talk to your English teacher or Year Coordinator about which English pathway best suits your goals — whether that's university, VET training, or entering the workforce.

Course Handbooks

Questions about English at DSHS?

Contact the school or explore the course handbooks to learn more about English offerings and senior school pathways.

Contact the School Course Handbooks