English & Literature Department
Explore the English & Literature Department, where students develop strong language skills and a love for reading and writing.
Where English Meets the World
We believe English is more than a subject. It is a way for students to understand the world, express their ideas and connect meaningfully with others.
Our department’s vision, “Where English Meets the World,” aligns with Dunearn Secondary School’s mission to nurture Lifelong Learners and Caring Leaders. Through the study and use of language and literature, we develop confident communicators, thoughtful readers, critical thinkers and purposeful creators who are ready to engage with an increasingly interconnected world.
At Dunearn, students experience English and Literature through authentic, student-centred learning that connects the classroom to the world beyond it.
English in Action
Experience. Use. Connect.
Our Core English Programme develops essential skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking through local and international texts, media and real-world contexts. Students learn to communicate effectively, think critically and use language purposefully.
Learning extends beyond the classroom through inquiry-based learning, collaborative projects and diverse modes of assessment. Students may investigate real-world issues, create digital artefacts, produce videos or podcasts, deliver presentations and communicate with authentic audiences.
Through these experiences, students learn that effective communication is not just about knowing the language — it is about using it with purpose, confidence and impact.
Literature Comes Alive
Read. Interpret. Experience. Create.
Our Literature in English Programme invites students to explore literary texts from different cultures and time periods, developing their ability to interpret, question and respond creatively to the world around them.
Literature does not just live on the page — sometimes, it takes centre stage. Through Learning Journeys and theatre experiences, students connect the texts they study with the people, performances and creative processes that bring stories to life.
Our Secondary 4 Express Literature students gained an insider’s perspective when they met Artistic Director Derrick Chew and playwright Jean Tay, the creative minds behind their drama text, Everything But the Brain. Our Secondary 2 students experienced Don’t Know Don’t Care and Perfecting Pratas, productions inspired by their Literature text, Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed. Our Secondary 1 students also enjoyed Scaredy Kat Presents by Gateway Arts.
Students also explore the craft of writing through creative experiences such as composing travel-inspired poetry for our special MRT station – Joy Hub, in the school canteen.
Through these experiences, students see, hear and experience Literature in new ways — developing a deeper appreciation of stories, perspectives and the craft of storytelling.
Find Your Voice
Speak. Write. Create. Share.
We create opportunities for students to use English with authentic audiences and purposes.
Our annual English Language and Literature (ELL) Week – Where English Meets the World brings the school alive with language, stories and performance. Student-centred experiences such as the school-wide Spelling Bee, Destination: Black Box, Tales to Trade and poetry writing invite students to test their language skills, perform, read, exchange ideas and discover new stories.
Our Making Effective Communication Cool initiative provides further opportunities for students to develop confidence in speaking and presenting. From One-Minute Gem sharing in English lessons to Dunearn Hits the Street videos and student announcers for school events, students practise communicating with real audiences in meaningful contexts.
Beyond Dunearn, students with a keen interest and aptitude in English are encouraged to extend themselves through platforms such as the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition, Live On Festival Essay Competition and YMCA Plain English Speaking Awards (PESA).
Through these opportunities, students learn to find their voice, share their ideas and engage with the wider community.
Learning for a Changing World
Think. Collaborate. Create. Connect.
English and Literature learning at Dunearn prepares students to navigate a world that is increasingly connected and digital.
Students develop research and digital literacy skills, learning to evaluate information critically and use digital and generative AI tools judiciously and responsibly. Collaborative learning spaces and digital tools support students in working together, exchanging ideas and creating meaningful responses to real-world problems.
Through inquiry, collaboration, communication and creative expression, students learn not only what to think about, but how to question, evaluate and respond.
Celebrating Growth
We celebrate not only achievement, but also growth.
The Most Resilient Award recognises students who persevere through challenges, while the Most Improved Award celebrates significant academic progress. Together, these awards affirm our belief that every learner can grow.
Explore the world. Find your voice. Connect with others.
At Dunearn, English and Literature are more than subjects. They are opportunities for students to make sense of the world, discover their voices and connect meaningfully with others.