VCE English Language Hacking

English Language Subsystems Diagram — Visual representation of language subsystems

What makes VCE English Language so hard?

Many VCE English Language teachers may not have specialized training in linguistics, which can make it challenging to break down complex language concepts. Additionally, the VCAA have strict requirements for the course, and it can be difficult to know what they're looking for in exams. This subject requires precise, structured responses in exams and essays, and even capable students can easily fall into common traps without clear guidance.

Shifting Study Design Language

The study design includes many terms that are highly specific to the course and have evolved over time, leaving many teachers confused about what the appropriate terms are. For example...

What's the difference between 'function' and 'purpose', and how does that differ from the old design’s 'social purpose'?
What about the new concept of 'tenor' introduced in the 2024 study design?
Should I call certain words 'diminutives', 'hypercorisms' , or 'shortenings'?

Many teachers either misunderstand these concepts or cling to old terminology, which can result in outdated information. And unfortunately in this subject, even small terminology errors can instantly cost you marks on your SAQ or AC.

Confusing Expectations

I have many students come to me with misunderstandings about the core expectations of the course. A lot of these come from past requirements that are no longer advised by VCAA, or from general misconceptions about the current study design. Things such as:

Whether a subsystem or thematic-based structure to the AC can raise or lower your score
Whether you need an introduction for your AC or not
What actually counts as linguistic analysis
What actually counts as a contemporary language example for the essay
Whether you can list anything as a function or purpose, or if you need to use the specific language of the study design
Whether you need to memorise linguist quotes to include in your essay

Again, it can be really challenging to focus your study when you’re grappling with these unknowns or receiving mixed messages. For me, the most important thing is grounding everything in both the study design and the current VCAA examiners’ expectations.

Who am I?

I'm Alex—a VCE English Language teacher with a love for all things languages, linguistics and Englang. When I'm not travelling, practicing Russian or coding, I enjoy helping students understand the linguistic concepts of VCE English Language.

Qualified VCE Teacher

I am a VIT registered secondary school teacher, with an MA in Teaching and seven years of professional experience. I've taught at a range of different schools across the state such as the University High School, Broadford Secondary, the Victorian School of Languages and Marymede College so I've seen a lot of different ways that the subject is taught, which has helped me to understand the course inside and out, as well as knowing common misunderstandings that some students and teachers have about the course expectations.

Linguistics Expertise

I have a BA in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics from the University of Melbourne, so I understand the core course concepts at a deep level. My studies covered topics such as syntax, phonetics and phonology, morphology, semantics, Australian English, and sociolinguistics, which form the backbone of the course. Additionally, my experience as a Japanese and French teacher, along with proficiency in Russian and Spanish, gives me a comprehensive understanding of language in all its forms.

What do we do in the sessions?

I tailor each session to your individual needs, whether you need to improve SAC results or exam scores. I can cover anything from explaining metalanguage and mastering SAQs, to analyzing speech transcripts, structuring analytical commentaries, crafting impactful essays, and discussing contemporary essay examples.

How Is the Tutoring Run?

Sessions last 55 minutes and are conducted online. You can choose one-off lessons or regular sessions scheduled weekly or fortnightly. Two-on-one sessions are $50 per student, and one-on-one sessions are $80.