Department of English: The Imaginarium

Shore’s partnership with the University of Sydney (USYD) continues to bring forth exciting opportunities for students and teachers. The Department of English has the pleasure of regularly hosting the Imaginarium each term, an important opportunity for teachers to engage in a collaborative discussion about a topic of interest and discuss ways to enrich the learning experience for students.

On Tuesday 14 March, Professor Jacqueline Manuel from the University of Sydney hosted an insightful evening where our English teachers examined the complexities of the ‘formulaic essay’. As a Professor of English Education and the Program Director for the Master of Teaching (Secondary) course, Professor Manuel fostered thought-provoking discussion, prompting the department to reflect on our pedagogical practice and our personal approaches to teaching essay writing in the classroom. In light of globally declining literacy levels, hearing the innovative ideas from our English teachers illuminated the importance of providing consistent opportunities for students to participate in the necessary process of writing. The Imaginarium provided an excellent opportunity for teachers to share strategies on how to inspire students’ love of the essay form. This event has led to further conversations within the English Department, where we have continued to discuss what is at the heart of good writing.  

Thank you to Professor Manuel for facilitating this opportunity; its success is a reflection of the power of collaboration and the value of professional development for teachers. It is a timely reminder of the importance of teachers taking an active role in nurturing students’ love of writing and learning, and we look forward to seeing how these discussions will translate into classroom practice. The English Department looks forward to continuing the USYD Partnership and engaging in future Imaginariums.

Ms Z Doutreband
Master Assisting English (USYD Partnership and Competitions)