Many educators are critical of the teaching of English where it is the native tongue. The presence of poorly motivated students in high schools proves its need. Perhaps they should leave school and resume their education when they have matured. (AF)

Examines the teaching of poetry in Australian schools as it has been attempted in the past few decades and questions whether poetry teaching can be more successful even with the new understandings of language development and literary response. (HOD)

Responds to Garth Boomer's classic 1984 essay on English teaching. Notes that the essay (1) enabled the author to articulate what he found disengaging about the essay and much of the current professional writing on English teaching; (2) clarified what he most valued in his colleagues; and (3) clarified his understanding of the purpose of the…

Argues that the present English curriculum based on the principle of "cummulative fragmentalism" is inefficient and outmoded, and that the curriculum, instead, should reflect the theory or value of struggling. (HOD)

Outlines key transformations of secondary education in New South Wales in the twentieth century. Discusses the debate of whether the study of literature should be compulsory. Details the study of literature articulated in the 1965 syllabus and its revision in the 1990s. (PM)

Addresses two questions: (1) What are the functions of literature? and (2) How do children respond to literature? (HOD)

A personalized essay that pleads for ethical curriculum planning on the grounds that the mass media should communicate, not just stimulate. (RB)

Proposes a solution to the dilemma Australian English teachers face now that they have been given the professional freedom to determine their own teaching methods and course content. (RB)

Suggests that a problem with the use of materials and methods devised for use with John Dixon's growth English'' is the temptation, under the stress of large classes and overcrowded timetables, to use it for class lessons along traditional lines. (Author)

Examines change and stability in the history of senior English in Australia and sums up the present position, noting differences within and among systems. (HOD)

Claims that computer games have little educational value, are antisocial, and classroom time should be spent on more worthwhile pursuits. Argues that computer games are not literary texts in that they cannot inform students of their cultural heritage, provide an opportunity to respond to ethical questions, or deal with significant and lasting…

Directs attention to informal varieties of inservice teacher education, such as that provided by the contact between practicing English teachers and consultants. (HOD)