Singapore Secondary 1 Literature in English G2

This course introduces students to the study of literature, fostering critical reading, creative interpretation, and effective communication skills. It aims to develop empathetic and global thinkers who can appreciate diverse perspectives. The course covers three main genres: Prose, Poetry, and Drama.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of Secondary 1, students should be able to:

Experiencing Story:

• Immerse themselves in the narrative, empathizing with characters and visualizing the setting and atmosphere.
• Trace their emotional and intellectual responses to plot developments, character growth, and changes in setting.
• Explore complex human relationships and behaviors through character analysis.
• Reflect on the text to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their own experiences.

Appreciating Style:

• Explore the connotations of words and analyze the effects of stylistic choices, including diction, figurative language, imagery, prosody, point of view, tone, form, and irony.
• Recognize and appreciate genre-specific conventions for prose, poetry, and drama.
• Analyze and reflect on the overall effect of style and how different stylistic elements combine to shape meaning.

Interpreting Theme:

• Identify and articulate the main themes by analyzing the interplay of plot, character, setting, and style.
• Recognize the significance of the contexts in which texts are written.
• Consider how texts explore sociocultural practices, beliefs, and values in relation to the human condition.
• Develop an open mind towards multiple interpretations and embrace ambiguity.

Responding through Dialogue and Writing:

• Develop sensitive and informed personal responses through various spoken and written strategies.
• Co-construct responses by exchanging perspectives with peers and teachers.
• Construct and communicate clear, organized, and coherent arguments, supporting their interpretations with textual evidence.
• Use appropriate metalanguage and genre-specific conventions.

Assessment Objectives

Students are assessed holistically on their ability to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the literary texts studied.
• Respond with understanding to texts from various genres.
• Demonstrate understanding of how writers' choices shape meaning.
• Communicate a sensitive and informed personal response.
• Express responses clearly and coherently, using textual evidence.

Genre Specifications

Students will study:

• Prose: One novel in its entirety or a range of short stories.
• Poetry: A range of 8-12 poems from Singapore and other parts of the world.
• Drama: One play in its entirety or a range of short plays (excluding film scripts).

Texts are selected to offer sufficient scope for critical analysis and originate from diverse cultural contexts. They are studied in their entirety to facilitate a holistic understanding.