English
Did you know?
Stamford's English Department offers the most comprehensive range of programs in the city. There are programs available for all students preparing for university, college or entering the world of employment upon graduation. We are the largest department in the school with a teaching staff trained in academic English literature studies, media technologies, communications studies, linguistics and special education.
Stamford boasts one of the most highly motivated and integrated teaching staff and students in the region. This relationship between staff and students in the school allows us the ability to use and share the unique facilities available at the school including a professional theatre, up to date computer design applications, and media technologies.
The result?
Consider the range of programs offered at Stamford and it's clear that students attending the school can be certain that they will receive the education that fulfills their needs and give these young people the opportunity to realize their goals:
- University and college preparation courses that foster and develop the critical thinking, writing, and communication skills to succeed at post secondary institutions.
- Academic and applied courses that provide a foundation for higher learning and the opportunity to bring English studies to life through practical applications incorporating drama and media.
- The specialized school to work (SSTW) program to prepare students for essential literacy skills needed in the workplace.
- Elective courses in the areas of media studies preparing students for critical understanding of media in the 21st century
- A 15-hour 'After Hours Literacy' program provided to students who seek further instruction and preparation for the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test.
- New 2003 * 'Soar to Success' in grade 9 and 10 SSTW courses, proven to improve overall literacy and reading scores.
- New 2003 * The internationally recognized 'Advanced Placement' (AP) program in English Writer's Craft University where students can earn advanced credit toward university level English courses.
- New 2003 * The OSSLC (Ontario Secondary School Literacy Credit) for students who wish to advance their literacy skills and/or qualify for the literacy requirement for graduation.
Media
Students will study and understand a variety of media throughout the English curriculum. Media study involves decoding and understanding the implict and explicit messages, bias, texts, theory and representation provided by the media.
In addition to the study of media in compulsory English courses, students may choose to further their study by taking an elective course in Media Studies in grade 11.
Some useful sites relating to the study of media are:
The Encyclopedia Of Television provides research, articles and information about television programs, networks, and issues relating to television.
Media-Awareness - a Canadian site devoted to the study of media literacy for students, parents and teachers. The site includes a variety of lessons, resources, articles and issues related to media.
Respecting Copyrights - a site devoted to the issue of on-line downloading, piracy, and the controversial impact of using the web for distribution of copyright materials in music, video, software, and film.
Popular Culture Research - a link to the Brock University popular culture research page with information relating to comics, advertising campaigns and other important popular culture topics.
Staff
Head - Cameron Baty
Melissa Devitt
Maria DiPardo
Joyce Gautier
Shanta Bashar
Chris Pierce
Jim Pitt
Joe Santagata
Kate Shepherd
Marina Seneca
Heather Janik