Year 8 English Achievement Standard
12 statements aligned to content descriptors and elaborations
Achievement standard (as ACARA publishes it)
Achievement standard
Click any sentence to jump to its statement and linked content descriptors.
By the end of Year 8, students interact with others, and listen to and create spoken and/or multimodal texts including literary texts. With different purposes and for audiences, they discuss, express and elaborate on ideas with supporting evidence. They select and vary text structures to organise, develop and link ideas. They select and vary language features including literary devices, and/or multimodal features and features of voice.
They read, view and comprehend a range of texts created to inform, influence and/or engage audiences. They explain how ideas are represented and how texts reflect or challenge contexts. They explain the aesthetic qualities of texts. They explain how text structures shape meaning. They explain the effects of language features including intertextual references and literary devices, and visual features.
They create written and/or multimodal texts, including literary texts for different purposes and audiences, expressing and advancing ideas with supporting evidence. They select and vary text structures to organise, develop and link ideas. They select and vary language features including literary devices, and/or multimodal features.
The 12 achievement standard statements
Open a statement to see the content descriptors ACARA links to it, then open a descriptor's elaborations.
By the end of Year 8, students interact with others, and listen to and create spoken and/or multimodal texts including literary texts.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA01 Language
recognise how language shapes relationships and roles
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration understanding that group identities are formed through language that reflects shared values, beliefs and behaviours, and through language choices that engender solidarity such as specialist terminology, acronyms and terms of address; for example, teenage groups and sportspeople have adopted particular words and ways of communicating
- Elaboration exploring the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Map of Indigenous Australia and identifying language names that inform relationships to Country/Place
Content descriptorAC9E8LA02 Language
understand how layers of meaning can be created when evaluating by using literary devices such as simile and metaphor
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying how authors use rhetorical devices that reveal the dark or serious aspects of a topic in humorous or amusing ways; for example, by making a statement but implying or meaning the opposite (irony), exaggerating or overstating something (hyperbole), imitating or mocking something (parody), and making something appear less serious than it really is (understatement)
Content descriptorAC9E8LA07 Language
investigate how visual texts use intertextual references to enhance and layer meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references in advertisements and discussing their impact on layering meaning; for example, the interrelationship of words and images
Content descriptorAC9E8LE02 Literature
share opinions about the language features, literary devices and text structures that contribute to the styles of literary texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration comparing reviews of a literary text and evaluating opinions that challenge or support personal opinions
- Elaboration reflecting on and evaluating opinions and arguments about aspects of literary texts including characterisation, setting and plot
Content descriptorAC9E8LE06 Literature
create and edit literary texts that experiment with language features and literary devices for particular purposes and effects
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration creating short stories focusing on characters and dialogue
- Elaboration combining literary devices to evoke a reader response
- Elaboration collaborating with a peer, which may include using online spaces, to write a short script with 2 characters, focusing on dialogue choices for each character
- Elaboration editing the imagery and word choices when creating a literary text and reflecting on the effect of those changes
Content descriptorAC9E8LY02 Literacy
use interaction skills for identified purposes and situations, including when supporting or challenging the stated or implied meanings of spoken texts in presentations or discussion
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration participating in pair, group, class, school and community speaking and listening situations, including informal conversations, discussions, debates and presentations
- Elaboration listening to a conversation or speech, identifying the point being made, and explaining the tone and manner of presentation
- Elaboration using effective strategies for dialogue and discussion in range of formal and informal contexts, including speaking clearly and coherently and at appropriate length, asking questions about stated and implied ideas, and restating and summarising main ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LY07 Literacy
plan, create, rehearse and deliver spoken and multimodal presentations for audiences and purposes, selecting language features, literary devices, visual features and features of voice to suit formal or informal situations, and organising and developing ideas in texts in ways that may be imaginative, reflective, informative, persuasive and/or analytical
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration integrating multimodal features in a spoken presentation to support the audience’s understanding
- Elaboration choosing vocabulary and sentence structures, and using literary devices such as similes, metaphors and personification to meet perceived audience needs; for example, when debating a topic or creating a voiceover for a media presentation
- Elaboration selecting features of voice, such as tone, volume, pitch and pace, with particular attention to the effects these may have on audience reaction and acceptance of the ideas presented
- Elaboration collaborating with peers to develop a persuasive advertising campaign about a contemporary issue
With different purposes and for audiences, they discuss, express and elaborate on ideas with supporting evidence.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA01 Language
recognise how language shapes relationships and roles
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration understanding that group identities are formed through language that reflects shared values, beliefs and behaviours, and through language choices that engender solidarity such as specialist terminology, acronyms and terms of address; for example, teenage groups and sportspeople have adopted particular words and ways of communicating
- Elaboration exploring the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Map of Indigenous Australia and identifying language names that inform relationships to Country/Place
Content descriptorAC9E8LA02 Language
understand how layers of meaning can be created when evaluating by using literary devices such as simile and metaphor
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying how authors use rhetorical devices that reveal the dark or serious aspects of a topic in humorous or amusing ways; for example, by making a statement but implying or meaning the opposite (irony), exaggerating or overstating something (hyperbole), imitating or mocking something (parody), and making something appear less serious than it really is (understatement)
Content descriptorAC9E8LA04 Language
understand how cohesion in texts is improved by strengthening the internal structure of paragraphs with examples, quotations and substantiation of claims
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration writing paragraphs of extended length that explain, substantiate and exemplify a particular viewpoint
Content descriptorAC9E8LA08 Language
identify and use vocabulary typical of academic texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying the vocabulary of academic report writing on a topic; for example, the use of words such as “evidence”, “consequence”, “contradiction” and “acknowledge” for the topic “sustainability”
- Elaboration comparing and contrasting vocabulary choices in academic texts, considering how they are used to create precise information or convey abstract ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LE02 Literature
share opinions about the language features, literary devices and text structures that contribute to the styles of literary texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration comparing reviews of a literary text and evaluating opinions that challenge or support personal opinions
- Elaboration reflecting on and evaluating opinions and arguments about aspects of literary texts including characterisation, setting and plot
Content descriptorAC9E8LE03 Literature
explain how language and/or images in texts position readers to respond and form viewpoints
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration discussing how a complex picture book combines words and images to position readers to respond
- Elaboration sharing opinions about how a film positions the viewer to respond to a character
Content descriptorAC9E8LY02 Literacy
use interaction skills for identified purposes and situations, including when supporting or challenging the stated or implied meanings of spoken texts in presentations or discussion
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration participating in pair, group, class, school and community speaking and listening situations, including informal conversations, discussions, debates and presentations
- Elaboration listening to a conversation or speech, identifying the point being made, and explaining the tone and manner of presentation
- Elaboration using effective strategies for dialogue and discussion in range of formal and informal contexts, including speaking clearly and coherently and at appropriate length, asking questions about stated and implied ideas, and restating and summarising main ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LY03 Literacy
analyse and evaluate the ways that language features vary according to the purpose and audience of the text, and the ways that sources and quotations are used in a text
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating an author's use of language features to present an opinion about those features
- Elaboration evaluating the use of sources and quotations and presenting an opinion about how an author has supported an idea
Content descriptorAC9E8LY07 Literacy
plan, create, rehearse and deliver spoken and multimodal presentations for audiences and purposes, selecting language features, literary devices, visual features and features of voice to suit formal or informal situations, and organising and developing ideas in texts in ways that may be imaginative, reflective, informative, persuasive and/or analytical
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration integrating multimodal features in a spoken presentation to support the audience’s understanding
- Elaboration choosing vocabulary and sentence structures, and using literary devices such as similes, metaphors and personification to meet perceived audience needs; for example, when debating a topic or creating a voiceover for a media presentation
- Elaboration selecting features of voice, such as tone, volume, pitch and pace, with particular attention to the effects these may have on audience reaction and acceptance of the ideas presented
- Elaboration collaborating with peers to develop a persuasive advertising campaign about a contemporary issue
They select and vary text structures to organise, develop and link ideas.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA03 Language
explain how texts are structured depending on their purpose and how language features vary, recognising that some texts are hybrids that combine different genres or elements of different genres
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising how texts such as critical responses to texts, expositions, text interpretations and discussions are typically structured to achieve their purpose
- Elaboration discussing how the placement of images and written text in a linear or non-linear way, such as online texts, is used differently in a variety of texts for a purpose
- Elaboration explaining the structure and language features of texts such as narratives, literary recounts, memoirs, drama scripts, types of poems, formal speeches, comparisons and creative responses, discussions and debates, and explaining how these structures and language features support their purpose
Content descriptorAC9E8LA04 Language
understand how cohesion in texts is improved by strengthening the internal structure of paragraphs with examples, quotations and substantiation of claims
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration writing paragraphs of extended length that explain, substantiate and exemplify a particular viewpoint
Content descriptorAC9E8LY04 Literacy
analyse how authors organise ideas to develop and shape meaning
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration identifying the structure of ideas in a range of texts
- Elaboration examining texts that structure ideas according to proposition and support, cause and effect, and compare and contrast, and determine their effectiveness
- Elaboration exploring texts that attempt to solve problems in a particular way; for example, organising information by considering strengths as well as problems that arise from an approach
- Elaboration analysing how the organisation of a webpage shapes its meaning
Content descriptorAC9E8LY07 Literacy
plan, create, rehearse and deliver spoken and multimodal presentations for audiences and purposes, selecting language features, literary devices, visual features and features of voice to suit formal or informal situations, and organising and developing ideas in texts in ways that may be imaginative, reflective, informative, persuasive and/or analytical
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration integrating multimodal features in a spoken presentation to support the audience’s understanding
- Elaboration choosing vocabulary and sentence structures, and using literary devices such as similes, metaphors and personification to meet perceived audience needs; for example, when debating a topic or creating a voiceover for a media presentation
- Elaboration selecting features of voice, such as tone, volume, pitch and pace, with particular attention to the effects these may have on audience reaction and acceptance of the ideas presented
- Elaboration collaborating with peers to develop a persuasive advertising campaign about a contemporary issue
They select and vary language features including literary devices, and/or multimodal features and features of voice.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA01 Language
recognise how language shapes relationships and roles
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration understanding that group identities are formed through language that reflects shared values, beliefs and behaviours, and through language choices that engender solidarity such as specialist terminology, acronyms and terms of address; for example, teenage groups and sportspeople have adopted particular words and ways of communicating
- Elaboration exploring the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Map of Indigenous Australia and identifying language names that inform relationships to Country/Place
Content descriptorAC9E8LA02 Language
understand how layers of meaning can be created when evaluating by using literary devices such as simile and metaphor
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying how authors use rhetorical devices that reveal the dark or serious aspects of a topic in humorous or amusing ways; for example, by making a statement but implying or meaning the opposite (irony), exaggerating or overstating something (hyperbole), imitating or mocking something (parody), and making something appear less serious than it really is (understatement)
Content descriptorAC9E8LA03 Language
explain how texts are structured depending on their purpose and how language features vary, recognising that some texts are hybrids that combine different genres or elements of different genres
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising how texts such as critical responses to texts, expositions, text interpretations and discussions are typically structured to achieve their purpose
- Elaboration discussing how the placement of images and written text in a linear or non-linear way, such as online texts, is used differently in a variety of texts for a purpose
- Elaboration explaining the structure and language features of texts such as narratives, literary recounts, memoirs, drama scripts, types of poems, formal speeches, comparisons and creative responses, discussions and debates, and explaining how these structures and language features support their purpose
Content descriptorAC9E8LA06 Language
understand the effect of nominalisation in texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration highlighting examples of nominalisation in a range of texts including informative texts and explaining the impact on content and tone
- Elaboration nominalising relevant verbs in a series of sentences and discussing the impact of the change in tone on potential audiences
Content descriptorAC9E8LA07 Language
investigate how visual texts use intertextual references to enhance and layer meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references in advertisements and discussing their impact on layering meaning; for example, the interrelationship of words and images
Content descriptorAC9E8LA08 Language
identify and use vocabulary typical of academic texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying the vocabulary of academic report writing on a topic; for example, the use of words such as “evidence”, “consequence”, “contradiction” and “acknowledge” for the topic “sustainability”
- Elaboration comparing and contrasting vocabulary choices in academic texts, considering how they are used to create precise information or convey abstract ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LE06 Literature
create and edit literary texts that experiment with language features and literary devices for particular purposes and effects
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration creating short stories focusing on characters and dialogue
- Elaboration combining literary devices to evoke a reader response
- Elaboration collaborating with a peer, which may include using online spaces, to write a short script with 2 characters, focusing on dialogue choices for each character
- Elaboration editing the imagery and word choices when creating a literary text and reflecting on the effect of those changes
Content descriptorAC9E8LY07 Literacy
plan, create, rehearse and deliver spoken and multimodal presentations for audiences and purposes, selecting language features, literary devices, visual features and features of voice to suit formal or informal situations, and organising and developing ideas in texts in ways that may be imaginative, reflective, informative, persuasive and/or analytical
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration integrating multimodal features in a spoken presentation to support the audience’s understanding
- Elaboration choosing vocabulary and sentence structures, and using literary devices such as similes, metaphors and personification to meet perceived audience needs; for example, when debating a topic or creating a voiceover for a media presentation
- Elaboration selecting features of voice, such as tone, volume, pitch and pace, with particular attention to the effects these may have on audience reaction and acceptance of the ideas presented
- Elaboration collaborating with peers to develop a persuasive advertising campaign about a contemporary issue
They read, view and comprehend a range of texts created to inform, influence and/or engage audiences.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA01 Language
recognise how language shapes relationships and roles
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration understanding that group identities are formed through language that reflects shared values, beliefs and behaviours, and through language choices that engender solidarity such as specialist terminology, acronyms and terms of address; for example, teenage groups and sportspeople have adopted particular words and ways of communicating
- Elaboration exploring the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Map of Indigenous Australia and identifying language names that inform relationships to Country/Place
Content descriptorAC9E8LA03 Language
explain how texts are structured depending on their purpose and how language features vary, recognising that some texts are hybrids that combine different genres or elements of different genres
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising how texts such as critical responses to texts, expositions, text interpretations and discussions are typically structured to achieve their purpose
- Elaboration discussing how the placement of images and written text in a linear or non-linear way, such as online texts, is used differently in a variety of texts for a purpose
- Elaboration explaining the structure and language features of texts such as narratives, literary recounts, memoirs, drama scripts, types of poems, formal speeches, comparisons and creative responses, discussions and debates, and explaining how these structures and language features support their purpose
Content descriptorAC9E8LA04 Language
understand how cohesion in texts is improved by strengthening the internal structure of paragraphs with examples, quotations and substantiation of claims
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration writing paragraphs of extended length that explain, substantiate and exemplify a particular viewpoint
Content descriptorAC9E8LA07 Language
investigate how visual texts use intertextual references to enhance and layer meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references in advertisements and discussing their impact on layering meaning; for example, the interrelationship of words and images
Content descriptorAC9E8LA08 Language
identify and use vocabulary typical of academic texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying the vocabulary of academic report writing on a topic; for example, the use of words such as “evidence”, “consequence”, “contradiction” and “acknowledge” for the topic “sustainability”
- Elaboration comparing and contrasting vocabulary choices in academic texts, considering how they are used to create precise information or convey abstract ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LE01 Literature
explain the ways that ideas and points of view may represent the values of individuals and groups in literary texts, drawn from historical, social and cultural contexts, by First Nations Australian, and wide-ranging Australian and world authors
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration discussing representations of characters from historical contexts in literary texts; for example, discussing the romantic representation of the Australian swagman and the values it reflects
- Elaboration explaining attitudes and ideas about the natural world in literary texts drawn from contexts different to their own
- Elaboration explaining the ways texts by First Nations Australian authors represent unique ways of being, knowing, thinking and doing
Content descriptorAC9E8LE04 Literature
identify intertextual references in literary texts and explain how the references enable new understanding of the aesthetic quality of the text
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references through allusion or quotation in written texts and discussing how knowledge of other texts influences the reader’s understanding and appreciation
Content descriptorAC9E8LE05 Literature
analyse how language features such as sentence patterns create tone, and literary devices such as imagery create meaning and effect
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising that tone is influenced when an author uses active or passive voice
- Elaboration examining how writers use terse and relatively simple language choices or more elaborate and complex syntax, and how these influence meaning
- Elaboration recognising that First Nations Australian authors use words and language to set tone when writing or speaking about specific themes; for example, words used to set the tone when writing or speaking about Country/Place
Content descriptorAC9E8LY01 Literacy
identify how texts reflect contexts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying and explaining how social media texts reflect the context in which they are created
- Elaboration identifying how speeches for reconciliation reflect the context in which they are created
Content descriptorAC9E8LY03 Literacy
analyse and evaluate the ways that language features vary according to the purpose and audience of the text, and the ways that sources and quotations are used in a text
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating an author's use of language features to present an opinion about those features
- Elaboration evaluating the use of sources and quotations and presenting an opinion about how an author has supported an idea
Content descriptorAC9E8LY05 Literacy
use comprehension strategies such as visualising, predicting, connecting, summarising, monitoring, questioning and inferring to interpret and evaluate ideas in texts
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration reflecting on content by connecting and comparing information across and between texts
- Elaboration determining and applying criteria for evaluating the content of a website; for example, criteria for content and website purpose and its effectiveness
- Elaboration analysing the selection and composition of an image in a text and evaluating its effect on the credibility of the story
Content descriptorAC9E8LY08 Literacy
apply learnt knowledge to spell accurately and to learn new words
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration understanding the different ways complex words are constructed, and drawing on morphemic knowledge and knowledge of unusual letter combinations when spelling these words
- Elaboration understanding where to obtain the spelling of Aboriginal language words and Torres Strait Islander language words; for example, the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Map of Indigenous Australia, and the local First Nations Australian community
They explain how ideas are represented and how texts reflect or challenge contexts.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA05 Language
examine a variety of clause structures including embedded clauses that add information and expand ideas in sentences
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating how speechmakers influence audiences though embedded clauses to add information
- Elaboration exploring how clauses and embedded clauses can be used to express ideas more succinctly
Content descriptorAC9E8LA07 Language
investigate how visual texts use intertextual references to enhance and layer meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references in advertisements and discussing their impact on layering meaning; for example, the interrelationship of words and images
Content descriptorAC9E8LA08 Language
identify and use vocabulary typical of academic texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying the vocabulary of academic report writing on a topic; for example, the use of words such as “evidence”, “consequence”, “contradiction” and “acknowledge” for the topic “sustainability”
- Elaboration comparing and contrasting vocabulary choices in academic texts, considering how they are used to create precise information or convey abstract ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LA09 Language
understand and use punctuation conventions including semicolons and dashes to extend ideas and support meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration creating dialogue in drama showing interruptions, asides and pauses for effect
Content descriptorAC9E8LE01 Literature
explain the ways that ideas and points of view may represent the values of individuals and groups in literary texts, drawn from historical, social and cultural contexts, by First Nations Australian, and wide-ranging Australian and world authors
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration discussing representations of characters from historical contexts in literary texts; for example, discussing the romantic representation of the Australian swagman and the values it reflects
- Elaboration explaining attitudes and ideas about the natural world in literary texts drawn from contexts different to their own
- Elaboration explaining the ways texts by First Nations Australian authors represent unique ways of being, knowing, thinking and doing
Content descriptorAC9E8LE03 Literature
explain how language and/or images in texts position readers to respond and form viewpoints
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration discussing how a complex picture book combines words and images to position readers to respond
- Elaboration sharing opinions about how a film positions the viewer to respond to a character
Content descriptorAC9E8LE04 Literature
identify intertextual references in literary texts and explain how the references enable new understanding of the aesthetic quality of the text
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references through allusion or quotation in written texts and discussing how knowledge of other texts influences the reader’s understanding and appreciation
Content descriptorAC9E8LE05 Literature
analyse how language features such as sentence patterns create tone, and literary devices such as imagery create meaning and effect
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising that tone is influenced when an author uses active or passive voice
- Elaboration examining how writers use terse and relatively simple language choices or more elaborate and complex syntax, and how these influence meaning
- Elaboration recognising that First Nations Australian authors use words and language to set tone when writing or speaking about specific themes; for example, words used to set the tone when writing or speaking about Country/Place
Content descriptorAC9E8LY01 Literacy
identify how texts reflect contexts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying and explaining how social media texts reflect the context in which they are created
- Elaboration identifying how speeches for reconciliation reflect the context in which they are created
Content descriptorAC9E8LY03 Literacy
analyse and evaluate the ways that language features vary according to the purpose and audience of the text, and the ways that sources and quotations are used in a text
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating an author's use of language features to present an opinion about those features
- Elaboration evaluating the use of sources and quotations and presenting an opinion about how an author has supported an idea
Content descriptorAC9E8LY04 Literacy
analyse how authors organise ideas to develop and shape meaning
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration identifying the structure of ideas in a range of texts
- Elaboration examining texts that structure ideas according to proposition and support, cause and effect, and compare and contrast, and determine their effectiveness
- Elaboration exploring texts that attempt to solve problems in a particular way; for example, organising information by considering strengths as well as problems that arise from an approach
- Elaboration analysing how the organisation of a webpage shapes its meaning
Content descriptorAC9E8LY05 Literacy
use comprehension strategies such as visualising, predicting, connecting, summarising, monitoring, questioning and inferring to interpret and evaluate ideas in texts
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration reflecting on content by connecting and comparing information across and between texts
- Elaboration determining and applying criteria for evaluating the content of a website; for example, criteria for content and website purpose and its effectiveness
- Elaboration analysing the selection and composition of an image in a text and evaluating its effect on the credibility of the story
They explain the aesthetic qualities of texts.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA03 Language
explain how texts are structured depending on their purpose and how language features vary, recognising that some texts are hybrids that combine different genres or elements of different genres
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising how texts such as critical responses to texts, expositions, text interpretations and discussions are typically structured to achieve their purpose
- Elaboration discussing how the placement of images and written text in a linear or non-linear way, such as online texts, is used differently in a variety of texts for a purpose
- Elaboration explaining the structure and language features of texts such as narratives, literary recounts, memoirs, drama scripts, types of poems, formal speeches, comparisons and creative responses, discussions and debates, and explaining how these structures and language features support their purpose
Content descriptorAC9E8LA07 Language
investigate how visual texts use intertextual references to enhance and layer meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references in advertisements and discussing their impact on layering meaning; for example, the interrelationship of words and images
Content descriptorAC9E8LE03 Literature
explain how language and/or images in texts position readers to respond and form viewpoints
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration discussing how a complex picture book combines words and images to position readers to respond
- Elaboration sharing opinions about how a film positions the viewer to respond to a character
Content descriptorAC9E8LE04 Literature
identify intertextual references in literary texts and explain how the references enable new understanding of the aesthetic quality of the text
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references through allusion or quotation in written texts and discussing how knowledge of other texts influences the reader’s understanding and appreciation
Content descriptorAC9E8LE05 Literature
analyse how language features such as sentence patterns create tone, and literary devices such as imagery create meaning and effect
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising that tone is influenced when an author uses active or passive voice
- Elaboration examining how writers use terse and relatively simple language choices or more elaborate and complex syntax, and how these influence meaning
- Elaboration recognising that First Nations Australian authors use words and language to set tone when writing or speaking about specific themes; for example, words used to set the tone when writing or speaking about Country/Place
They explain how text structures shape meaning.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA03 Language
explain how texts are structured depending on their purpose and how language features vary, recognising that some texts are hybrids that combine different genres or elements of different genres
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising how texts such as critical responses to texts, expositions, text interpretations and discussions are typically structured to achieve their purpose
- Elaboration discussing how the placement of images and written text in a linear or non-linear way, such as online texts, is used differently in a variety of texts for a purpose
- Elaboration explaining the structure and language features of texts such as narratives, literary recounts, memoirs, drama scripts, types of poems, formal speeches, comparisons and creative responses, discussions and debates, and explaining how these structures and language features support their purpose
Content descriptorAC9E8LA04 Language
understand how cohesion in texts is improved by strengthening the internal structure of paragraphs with examples, quotations and substantiation of claims
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration writing paragraphs of extended length that explain, substantiate and exemplify a particular viewpoint
Content descriptorAC9E8LY03 Literacy
analyse and evaluate the ways that language features vary according to the purpose and audience of the text, and the ways that sources and quotations are used in a text
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating an author's use of language features to present an opinion about those features
- Elaboration evaluating the use of sources and quotations and presenting an opinion about how an author has supported an idea
Content descriptorAC9E8LY04 Literacy
analyse how authors organise ideas to develop and shape meaning
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration identifying the structure of ideas in a range of texts
- Elaboration examining texts that structure ideas according to proposition and support, cause and effect, and compare and contrast, and determine their effectiveness
- Elaboration exploring texts that attempt to solve problems in a particular way; for example, organising information by considering strengths as well as problems that arise from an approach
- Elaboration analysing how the organisation of a webpage shapes its meaning
They explain the effects of language features including intertextual references and literary devices, and visual features.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA03 Language
explain how texts are structured depending on their purpose and how language features vary, recognising that some texts are hybrids that combine different genres or elements of different genres
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising how texts such as critical responses to texts, expositions, text interpretations and discussions are typically structured to achieve their purpose
- Elaboration discussing how the placement of images and written text in a linear or non-linear way, such as online texts, is used differently in a variety of texts for a purpose
- Elaboration explaining the structure and language features of texts such as narratives, literary recounts, memoirs, drama scripts, types of poems, formal speeches, comparisons and creative responses, discussions and debates, and explaining how these structures and language features support their purpose
Content descriptorAC9E8LA05 Language
examine a variety of clause structures including embedded clauses that add information and expand ideas in sentences
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating how speechmakers influence audiences though embedded clauses to add information
- Elaboration exploring how clauses and embedded clauses can be used to express ideas more succinctly
Content descriptorAC9E8LA06 Language
understand the effect of nominalisation in texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration highlighting examples of nominalisation in a range of texts including informative texts and explaining the impact on content and tone
- Elaboration nominalising relevant verbs in a series of sentences and discussing the impact of the change in tone on potential audiences
Content descriptorAC9E8LA07 Language
investigate how visual texts use intertextual references to enhance and layer meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references in advertisements and discussing their impact on layering meaning; for example, the interrelationship of words and images
Content descriptorAC9E8LA08 Language
identify and use vocabulary typical of academic texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying the vocabulary of academic report writing on a topic; for example, the use of words such as “evidence”, “consequence”, “contradiction” and “acknowledge” for the topic “sustainability”
- Elaboration comparing and contrasting vocabulary choices in academic texts, considering how they are used to create precise information or convey abstract ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LA09 Language
understand and use punctuation conventions including semicolons and dashes to extend ideas and support meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration creating dialogue in drama showing interruptions, asides and pauses for effect
Content descriptorAC9E8LE03 Literature
explain how language and/or images in texts position readers to respond and form viewpoints
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration discussing how a complex picture book combines words and images to position readers to respond
- Elaboration sharing opinions about how a film positions the viewer to respond to a character
Content descriptorAC9E8LE04 Literature
identify intertextual references in literary texts and explain how the references enable new understanding of the aesthetic quality of the text
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references through allusion or quotation in written texts and discussing how knowledge of other texts influences the reader’s understanding and appreciation
Content descriptorAC9E8LE05 Literature
analyse how language features such as sentence patterns create tone, and literary devices such as imagery create meaning and effect
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising that tone is influenced when an author uses active or passive voice
- Elaboration examining how writers use terse and relatively simple language choices or more elaborate and complex syntax, and how these influence meaning
- Elaboration recognising that First Nations Australian authors use words and language to set tone when writing or speaking about specific themes; for example, words used to set the tone when writing or speaking about Country/Place
Content descriptorAC9E8LY03 Literacy
analyse and evaluate the ways that language features vary according to the purpose and audience of the text, and the ways that sources and quotations are used in a text
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating an author's use of language features to present an opinion about those features
- Elaboration evaluating the use of sources and quotations and presenting an opinion about how an author has supported an idea
They create written and/or multimodal texts, including literary texts for different purposes and audiences, expressing and advancing ideas with supporting evidence.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA02 Language
understand how layers of meaning can be created when evaluating by using literary devices such as simile and metaphor
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying how authors use rhetorical devices that reveal the dark or serious aspects of a topic in humorous or amusing ways; for example, by making a statement but implying or meaning the opposite (irony), exaggerating or overstating something (hyperbole), imitating or mocking something (parody), and making something appear less serious than it really is (understatement)
Content descriptorAC9E8LA04 Language
understand how cohesion in texts is improved by strengthening the internal structure of paragraphs with examples, quotations and substantiation of claims
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration writing paragraphs of extended length that explain, substantiate and exemplify a particular viewpoint
Content descriptorAC9E8LA05 Language
examine a variety of clause structures including embedded clauses that add information and expand ideas in sentences
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating how speechmakers influence audiences though embedded clauses to add information
- Elaboration exploring how clauses and embedded clauses can be used to express ideas more succinctly
Content descriptorAC9E8LA06 Language
understand the effect of nominalisation in texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration highlighting examples of nominalisation in a range of texts including informative texts and explaining the impact on content and tone
- Elaboration nominalising relevant verbs in a series of sentences and discussing the impact of the change in tone on potential audiences
Content descriptorAC9E8LA07 Language
investigate how visual texts use intertextual references to enhance and layer meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references in advertisements and discussing their impact on layering meaning; for example, the interrelationship of words and images
Content descriptorAC9E8LA08 Language
identify and use vocabulary typical of academic texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying the vocabulary of academic report writing on a topic; for example, the use of words such as “evidence”, “consequence”, “contradiction” and “acknowledge” for the topic “sustainability”
- Elaboration comparing and contrasting vocabulary choices in academic texts, considering how they are used to create precise information or convey abstract ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LA09 Language
understand and use punctuation conventions including semicolons and dashes to extend ideas and support meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration creating dialogue in drama showing interruptions, asides and pauses for effect
Content descriptorAC9E8LE01 Literature
explain the ways that ideas and points of view may represent the values of individuals and groups in literary texts, drawn from historical, social and cultural contexts, by First Nations Australian, and wide-ranging Australian and world authors
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration discussing representations of characters from historical contexts in literary texts; for example, discussing the romantic representation of the Australian swagman and the values it reflects
- Elaboration explaining attitudes and ideas about the natural world in literary texts drawn from contexts different to their own
- Elaboration explaining the ways texts by First Nations Australian authors represent unique ways of being, knowing, thinking and doing
Content descriptorAC9E8LE02 Literature
share opinions about the language features, literary devices and text structures that contribute to the styles of literary texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration comparing reviews of a literary text and evaluating opinions that challenge or support personal opinions
- Elaboration reflecting on and evaluating opinions and arguments about aspects of literary texts including characterisation, setting and plot
Content descriptorAC9E8LE03 Literature
explain how language and/or images in texts position readers to respond and form viewpoints
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration discussing how a complex picture book combines words and images to position readers to respond
- Elaboration sharing opinions about how a film positions the viewer to respond to a character
Content descriptorAC9E8LE04 Literature
identify intertextual references in literary texts and explain how the references enable new understanding of the aesthetic quality of the text
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references through allusion or quotation in written texts and discussing how knowledge of other texts influences the reader’s understanding and appreciation
Content descriptorAC9E8LE05 Literature
analyse how language features such as sentence patterns create tone, and literary devices such as imagery create meaning and effect
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising that tone is influenced when an author uses active or passive voice
- Elaboration examining how writers use terse and relatively simple language choices or more elaborate and complex syntax, and how these influence meaning
- Elaboration recognising that First Nations Australian authors use words and language to set tone when writing or speaking about specific themes; for example, words used to set the tone when writing or speaking about Country/Place
Content descriptorAC9E8LE06 Literature
create and edit literary texts that experiment with language features and literary devices for particular purposes and effects
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration creating short stories focusing on characters and dialogue
- Elaboration combining literary devices to evoke a reader response
- Elaboration collaborating with a peer, which may include using online spaces, to write a short script with 2 characters, focusing on dialogue choices for each character
- Elaboration editing the imagery and word choices when creating a literary text and reflecting on the effect of those changes
Content descriptorAC9E8LY01 Literacy
identify how texts reflect contexts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying and explaining how social media texts reflect the context in which they are created
- Elaboration identifying how speeches for reconciliation reflect the context in which they are created
Content descriptorAC9E8LY03 Literacy
analyse and evaluate the ways that language features vary according to the purpose and audience of the text, and the ways that sources and quotations are used in a text
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating an author's use of language features to present an opinion about those features
- Elaboration evaluating the use of sources and quotations and presenting an opinion about how an author has supported an idea
Content descriptorAC9E8LY04 Literacy
analyse how authors organise ideas to develop and shape meaning
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration identifying the structure of ideas in a range of texts
- Elaboration examining texts that structure ideas according to proposition and support, cause and effect, and compare and contrast, and determine their effectiveness
- Elaboration exploring texts that attempt to solve problems in a particular way; for example, organising information by considering strengths as well as problems that arise from an approach
- Elaboration analysing how the organisation of a webpage shapes its meaning
Content descriptorAC9E8LY06 Literacy
plan, create, edit and publish written and multimodal texts, organising and expanding ideas, and selecting text structures, language features, literary devices and visual features for purposes and audiences in ways that may be imaginative, reflective, informative, persuasive and/or analytical
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration experimenting with and editing text structures and language features; for example, paragraph order and content, and language choices to refine and clarify ideas
- Elaboration selecting vocabulary to position and persuade the reader; for example, adjusting language to show or acknowledge power
- Elaboration editing for accuracy of grammar, spelling and punctuation, and for meaning by experimenting with different order of ideas, a range of sentence structures, literary devices and vocabulary to clarify meaning for academic texts where appropriate
- Elaboration using conceptual maps or journals to plan and reflect on each stage of creating a written or multimodal text
Content descriptorAC9E8LY08 Literacy
apply learnt knowledge to spell accurately and to learn new words
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration understanding the different ways complex words are constructed, and drawing on morphemic knowledge and knowledge of unusual letter combinations when spelling these words
- Elaboration understanding where to obtain the spelling of Aboriginal language words and Torres Strait Islander language words; for example, the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Map of Indigenous Australia, and the local First Nations Australian community
They select and vary text structures to organise, develop and link ideas.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA03 Language
explain how texts are structured depending on their purpose and how language features vary, recognising that some texts are hybrids that combine different genres or elements of different genres
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising how texts such as critical responses to texts, expositions, text interpretations and discussions are typically structured to achieve their purpose
- Elaboration discussing how the placement of images and written text in a linear or non-linear way, such as online texts, is used differently in a variety of texts for a purpose
- Elaboration explaining the structure and language features of texts such as narratives, literary recounts, memoirs, drama scripts, types of poems, formal speeches, comparisons and creative responses, discussions and debates, and explaining how these structures and language features support their purpose
Content descriptorAC9E8LA04 Language
understand how cohesion in texts is improved by strengthening the internal structure of paragraphs with examples, quotations and substantiation of claims
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration writing paragraphs of extended length that explain, substantiate and exemplify a particular viewpoint
Content descriptorAC9E8LE06 Literature
create and edit literary texts that experiment with language features and literary devices for particular purposes and effects
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration creating short stories focusing on characters and dialogue
- Elaboration combining literary devices to evoke a reader response
- Elaboration collaborating with a peer, which may include using online spaces, to write a short script with 2 characters, focusing on dialogue choices for each character
- Elaboration editing the imagery and word choices when creating a literary text and reflecting on the effect of those changes
Content descriptorAC9E8LY06 Literacy
plan, create, edit and publish written and multimodal texts, organising and expanding ideas, and selecting text structures, language features, literary devices and visual features for purposes and audiences in ways that may be imaginative, reflective, informative, persuasive and/or analytical
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration experimenting with and editing text structures and language features; for example, paragraph order and content, and language choices to refine and clarify ideas
- Elaboration selecting vocabulary to position and persuade the reader; for example, adjusting language to show or acknowledge power
- Elaboration editing for accuracy of grammar, spelling and punctuation, and for meaning by experimenting with different order of ideas, a range of sentence structures, literary devices and vocabulary to clarify meaning for academic texts where appropriate
- Elaboration using conceptual maps or journals to plan and reflect on each stage of creating a written or multimodal text
They select and vary language features including literary devices, and/or multimodal features.
Content descriptorAC9E8LA02 Language
understand how layers of meaning can be created when evaluating by using literary devices such as simile and metaphor
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying how authors use rhetorical devices that reveal the dark or serious aspects of a topic in humorous or amusing ways; for example, by making a statement but implying or meaning the opposite (irony), exaggerating or overstating something (hyperbole), imitating or mocking something (parody), and making something appear less serious than it really is (understatement)
Content descriptorAC9E8LA03 Language
explain how texts are structured depending on their purpose and how language features vary, recognising that some texts are hybrids that combine different genres or elements of different genres
Elaborations (3)
- Elaboration recognising how texts such as critical responses to texts, expositions, text interpretations and discussions are typically structured to achieve their purpose
- Elaboration discussing how the placement of images and written text in a linear or non-linear way, such as online texts, is used differently in a variety of texts for a purpose
- Elaboration explaining the structure and language features of texts such as narratives, literary recounts, memoirs, drama scripts, types of poems, formal speeches, comparisons and creative responses, discussions and debates, and explaining how these structures and language features support their purpose
Content descriptorAC9E8LA05 Language
examine a variety of clause structures including embedded clauses that add information and expand ideas in sentences
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration evaluating how speechmakers influence audiences though embedded clauses to add information
- Elaboration exploring how clauses and embedded clauses can be used to express ideas more succinctly
Content descriptorAC9E8LA06 Language
understand the effect of nominalisation in texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration highlighting examples of nominalisation in a range of texts including informative texts and explaining the impact on content and tone
- Elaboration nominalising relevant verbs in a series of sentences and discussing the impact of the change in tone on potential audiences
Content descriptorAC9E8LA07 Language
investigate how visual texts use intertextual references to enhance and layer meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration identifying intertextual references in advertisements and discussing their impact on layering meaning; for example, the interrelationship of words and images
Content descriptorAC9E8LA08 Language
identify and use vocabulary typical of academic texts
Elaborations (2)
- Elaboration identifying the vocabulary of academic report writing on a topic; for example, the use of words such as “evidence”, “consequence”, “contradiction” and “acknowledge” for the topic “sustainability”
- Elaboration comparing and contrasting vocabulary choices in academic texts, considering how they are used to create precise information or convey abstract ideas
Content descriptorAC9E8LA09 Language
understand and use punctuation conventions including semicolons and dashes to extend ideas and support meaning
Elaborations (1)
- Elaboration creating dialogue in drama showing interruptions, asides and pauses for effect
Content descriptorAC9E8LE06 Literature
create and edit literary texts that experiment with language features and literary devices for particular purposes and effects
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration creating short stories focusing on characters and dialogue
- Elaboration combining literary devices to evoke a reader response
- Elaboration collaborating with a peer, which may include using online spaces, to write a short script with 2 characters, focusing on dialogue choices for each character
- Elaboration editing the imagery and word choices when creating a literary text and reflecting on the effect of those changes
Content descriptorAC9E8LY06 Literacy
plan, create, edit and publish written and multimodal texts, organising and expanding ideas, and selecting text structures, language features, literary devices and visual features for purposes and audiences in ways that may be imaginative, reflective, informative, persuasive and/or analytical
Elaborations (4)
- Elaboration experimenting with and editing text structures and language features; for example, paragraph order and content, and language choices to refine and clarify ideas
- Elaboration selecting vocabulary to position and persuade the reader; for example, adjusting language to show or acknowledge power
- Elaboration editing for accuracy of grammar, spelling and punctuation, and for meaning by experimenting with different order of ideas, a range of sentence structures, literary devices and vocabulary to clarify meaning for academic texts where appropriate
- Elaboration using conceptual maps or journals to plan and reflect on each stage of creating a written or multimodal text
This achievement standard describes the expected learning for Year 8 English. Use it to plan teaching and assessment with the Australian Curriculum v9.
At a Glance
| Strand | Substrand | CDs | Elaborations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language | Language for interacting with others | 2 | 3 |
| Language | Text structure and organisation | 2 | 4 |
| Language | Language for expressing and developing ideas | 5 | 8 |
| Literature | Literature and contexts | 1 | 3 |
| Literature | Engaging with and responding to literature | 2 | 4 |
| Literature | Examining literature | 2 | 4 |
| Literature | Creating literature | 1 | 4 |
| Literacy | Texts in context | 1 | 2 |
| Literacy | Interacting with others | 1 | 3 |
| Literacy | Analysing, interpreting and evaluating | 3 | 9 |
| Literacy | Creating texts | 2 | 8 |
| Literacy | Word knowledge | 1 | 2 |
| Total | 23 | 54 | |