English at Matrix is known for its individualised approach to students. Theory classes take place once a week and students are encouraged to attend workshop sessions at our Writing Centre up to three times a week where they receive ONE TO ONE tuition. This combination of small class learning with individual tuition has assisted our students in achieving excellent results, with a large percentage of our HSC English students achieving Band 6 results, including two STATE rankings in the 2008 year group, and five FIRST school rankings in the 2009 year group. 15% of the 2009 cohort achieved a top TEN ranking at their school.
Case Study:
Sherif Alam (2009 English Extension 1 Student)
"The module I studied was Genre, and the elective I studied was Crime Writing. I thoroughly enjoyed the Extension One English program at Matrix because it broadened my understanding of the dynamic relationships between genre theory, context and the ways in which these relationships are represented in texts. The workbook format was especially useful because it allowed us to gradually focus upon the pertinent issues surrounding the prescribed texts. This was complemented by the close analysis of supplementary texts which proved especially useful in essay writing. I would like to thank the English Coordinator, Lucy Swiatek, my teacher, Niven Kumar, and the many tutors at the Writing Centre who helped me fine-tune my responses in preparation for the HSC."
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During each lesson, students develop:
Weekly Theory Booklets that introduce and examine a broad variety of texts, both written and visual. Students apply the skills of textual analysis, and compose formal written responses.
Weekly Work Booklets which consist of exam-style writing tasks. They assist students in revising and applying the core knowledge and skills introduced in class, including formal essay writing and textual conventions.
Templates for a variety of textual forms including essay writing.
Topic Tests to assess students' progress. Students perform the test under strict exam conditions. This gives students an opportunity to practice exam techniques acquired and assess their progress before they sit for school exams.
One to one feedback on written work. This is provided through weekly workshops, ‘The Writing Centre’, for students who need to improve analytical and written skills, and want to review school and / or Matrix assessment tasks.
Additional help with their school work. Students are encouraged to make appointments to see their teacher before and after class in order to address their English concerns.
Academic research materials and resources.