Junior Cycle English
English at Junior Cycle in Templeogue College focuses on developing students’ literacy, critical thinking and creativity as well as independent learning skills. Over three years, students engage with a wide range of texts, both literary and non-literary, while refining their writing and communication skills.
First Year
Students are introduced to a broad range of texts, including novels, plays, poetry, short stories and non-fiction. Emphasis is placed on reading for understanding, responding to texts and developing writing skills in both creative and functional ways. Students begin to explore personal response and engage in discussions on themes, characters and style. Currently, students study the texts The Recruit, The Field and Across the Barricades as well as a selection of poems in 1st year.
Second Year
Building on skills developed in 1st year, students analyse texts in greater depth and develop a more refined approach to critical thinking and personal response. They also begin working on oral communication, including presentations and group discussions. Writing skills are further enhanced, focusing on structure, coherence and style. Students complete CBA 1: Oral Communication in 2nd year. Currently, students study the texts The Outsiders, 12 Angry Men and a film as well as a selection of poems in 2nd year.
Third Year
Students prepare for the Junior Cycle English examination in June. They continue to study a variety of texts, strengthening their ability to evaluate and interpret language and themes. Emphasis is placed on refining both written and oral communication in preparation for assessment. Students complete CBA 2: Collection of Texts in 3rd year and submit an Assessment Task. Currently, post-covid arrangements are still in place so students are only required to complete one CBA and no assessment task is required. This may change in 2026. Currently, students study the texts Of Mice and Men, The Merchant of Venice and a film as well as a selection of poems in 3rd year. Higher Level students must study a Shakespearean text as part of their Junior Cycle.
Assessment
- Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs)*:
- CBA 1: Oral Communication Task (completed in 2nd year)
- CBA 2*: Collection of the Student’s Texts (completed in 3rd year)
- Assessment Task* (10% of final grade)
* Currently, post-covid arrangements are still in place so students are only required to complete one CBA and no assessment task is submitted. This may change in 2026.
- Final Written Exam (June)