TY English
TY English has two periods of one-hour class time per week. TY English offers students opportunities to explore different types of literature/ genres and to develop their own reading and writing skills. As part of this, students engage in a “Readers’ and Writers’ Project” where they read a variety of texts linked by either author, genre or thematic concern. Students select these independently and create a research project based on their reading experience, which is then presented later in the year.
Students also engage in a “mini comparative” study where they compare the study of a novel and film. This looks to bridge necessary skills needed for Leaving Cert English from Junior Cycle and to begin to develop the key competencies needed at Senior Cycle. The curriculum this year includes the historical thriller “I Must Betray You” by Ruta Sepetys set in 1980s Romania alongside Stephen Daldry’s awarding winning film, “Billy Elliot”, set in 1980s Britain.
Important elements of communication such as oral skills and developing personal, reflective writing are also developed this year. Students study a variety of writing extracts from genres such as memoir and aesthetic writing, including poetry, to expand their understanding and knowledge of different text types. Throughout TY, students of English are encouraged to take part in various creative writing competitions and to experiment in their own writing style. Oral communication opportunities in debating initiatives and competitions alongside Model United Nations are also encouraged for TY students to hone their debating and public speaking skills.