Course Plan: VCE Language Analysis for Year 11 English
Course Overview
This course aims to develop students' abilities to analyse, interpret, and evaluate both written and spoken texts through the lens of language. Students will explore various techniques used by authors and speakers to convey meaning and influence audiences, culminating in the ability to craft persuasive and engaging written arguments.
Lesson Plan
Lesson 1: Introduction to Language Analysis
- Objectives: Understand the importance of language analysis and key concepts.
- Activities:
- Discuss the role of language in communication.
- Introduce the VCE Language Analysis proportions and expectations.
- Overview of the types of texts analysed in VCE.
Lesson 2: Understanding Text Types
- Objectives: Differentiate between various text types (advertisements, editorials, speeches).
- Activities:
- Analyze examples of various texts.
- Group activity: Identify the target audience and purpose of selected texts.
Lesson 3: Language Features and Techniques
- Objectives: Identify and explain common language features (e.g., metaphor, simile, alliteration).
- Activities:
- Lecture on various techniques and their effects.
- Activity: Locate language features in a provided text.
Lesson 4: Visual and Multimodal Texts
- Objectives: Analyse visual elements in conjunction with written language.
- Activities:
- Examine an advertisement’s visual rhetoric.
- Discussion on how visual elements enhance or alter message.
Lesson 5: The Role of Tone and Style
- Objectives: Understand the significance of tone and style in language analysis.
- Activities:
- Group reading of diverse texts focusing on tone.
- Reflective writing: How does tone influence the audience's perception?
Lesson 6: Persuasive Techniques
- Objectives: Explore various persuasive techniques used in texts.
- Activities:
- Investigation into ethos, pathos, and logos.
- Create a mind map showcasing persuasive techniques identified in texts.
Lesson 7: Crafting an Analytical Response
- Objectives: Learn how to structure an analytical response.
- Activities:
- Breakdown of the structure: Introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion.
- Peer review: Students share their outlines.
Lesson 8: Practice Analysis of Non-Fiction Text
- Objectives: Apply analytical skills to a non-fiction text.
- Activities:
- Students select a non-fiction text and analyse it using learnt techniques.
- Share analyses in small groups for peer feedback.
Lesson 9: Analyzing Fictional Texts
- Objectives: Apply language analysis to fictional texts.
- Activities:
- Choose a short story or an excerpt from a novel.
- Students analyse character development, themes, and language features.
Lesson 10: Developing Argumentative Skills
- Objectives: Enhance skills in constructing persuasive arguments.
- Activities:
- Write an argumentative piece responding to a contemporary issue.
- Class debate: Students present and defend their arguments.
Lesson 11: Exam Preparation and Review
- Objectives: Prepare for VCE language analysis assessment.
- Activities:
- Review key concepts and strategies for textual analysis.
- Practice exam questions and analytical writing under timed conditions.
Lesson 12: Final Assessment and Reflection
- Objectives: Demonstrate understanding of course content.
- Activities:
- Complete a formal assessment: Analytical essay on a provided text.
- Reflect on learning journey and areas for growth in language analysis.
Assessment Overview
- Formative Assessments: Group discussions, peer reviews, reflective writings.
- Summative Assessment: A formal analytical essay at the end of the course.
Resources
- Set of diverse texts for analysis (articles, advertisements, speeches).
- Access to online resources for additional research.
- Recommended reading list for enhancing language skills.
This course adheres to the VCE standards and curriculum, focusing on the critical skills needed for effective language analysis. Each lesson builds on the last, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of language analysis techniques and their applications.