English Language and Literature at Marymount
At Marymount International School London, the English Language and Literature programme offers students an exciting and thought-provoking exploration of literature that goes beyond simply enjoying a good book. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep engagement with texts, encouraging students to challenge conventional thinking and embrace literature in a more nuanced, analytical way.
A Focus on Engaging Texts:
The study of language and literature at Marymount International School London is not about passive reading—it is about diving deep into texts, exploring authors’ intentions, and understanding the larger cultural and historical contexts. One of the current texts used in the Grade 12 classroom is The Handmaid’s Tale, an influential and controversial novel by Margaret Atwood. This work opens discussions on diverse topics, from feminism to dystopian societies, offering rich material for critical thought.
Students are encouraged to approach texts such as The Handmaid’s Tale as a lens through which to explore more significant social issues and feminist perspectives. English classes here do not shy away from controversial themes; instead, they tackle them head-on, developing an environment where students feel empowered to think critically and challenge conventional viewpoints.
Small class sizes for significant discussions:
One of the unique aspects of studying English Language and Literature at Marymount is the small class sizes. The intimate setting creates an ideal environment for discussion and critical analysis of the subject matter. In smaller groups, students can contribute equally to conversations, ask questions, and receive personalized feedback from teachers. The intimacy of these classes means that every student can be heard and immerse themselves deeply into the material.
Discussion based learning in the IB programme
At the heart of the English curriculum at Marymount is the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy, which emphasises inquiry-based learning and critical thinking. In line with this, classroom discussions are a key component of every lesson. The IB framework encourages students to:
- consider different perspectives,
- develop their ideas, and
- express their thoughts confidently.
Rather than simply memorising facts or summarising plotlines, students are invited to explore the author’s process, intentions, and the broader implications of the text. This approach challenges students to think beyond the literal context and cultivate a deeper understanding of the literature they study
Teacher engagement
In addition to this deeper understanding is the passion of the English teachers here at Marymount International School London. Teachers’ passion for their subjects is contagious, and students often describe English classes as profoundly engaging. One student remarked on the Head of English reading of Macbeth, saying that the energy and performance in the classroom make the experience feel like a theatrical production, bringing the play to life in a captivating and insightful way.
Teachers’ ability to bring texts to life and encourage an enthusiastic approach to literature is a hallmark of the English programme at Marymount. This enthusiasm makes the material more interesting and inspires students to approach their studies with vigour and excitement. With the oral exams running throughout February, students are well versed in the texts they discuss and the literary techniques running throughout them.
Supporting students whose native language is not English
Marymount’s English language and literature lessons provide second-language learners with a supportive and inclusive environment. The school understands that mastering an additional language goes beyond learning vocabulary and grammar; it is about building the confidence to engage with complex ideas and communicate clearly.
Teachers are dedicated to guiding students on this journey. With the support of both instructors and peers, students studying English as a second language actively participate in class discussions, improving their language skills and deepening their understanding of the required texts. The small class sizes and focus on discussion-based learning create an ideal setting for this.
In addition to English Language and Literature and English language acquisition, Marymount offers an English Language Development course for students in Grades 6 through 8, designed to support beginner English learners. This course complements the English language acquisition course at Marymount and is available to all students whose first language is not English. The English Language Development course focuses on language skills and Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills. Thanks to immersive experiences, students make rapid progress in their language learning and transition to the English Language and Literature course once they reach a sufficient level of proficiency.
To Conclude
While English is just one of many subjects studied at Marymount International School London, there is little doubt that the freedom of classroom-based discussion and the teachers’ passion cultivate an insightful, inquisitive, and enjoyable learning experience.