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In the old HSC, texts tended to be studied in isolation and as a representative of a particular literary genre such as drama, poetry and novel. They were to be studied as single texts, and anything to do with the social, political, biographical, or cultural conditions in which they were created was labelled in the syllabus as "information", not to be used in the examination (BOS, 1982b, p.10).
While these literary genres are still important text requirements, they are seen as a means to an end and not an end in themselves. Instead, they are studied within the context of an Area of Study, modules and electives. Individual texts are therefore one example of the subject matter. Here is an example from the English (Standard) Course.
| Module | Elective | Text |
|---|---|---|
| Contextual frame & processes needed to understand the subject matter | The subject matter | One example of the subject matter |
| Experience through language | Elective 1 | Prescribed |
| This module helps students understand how our perceptions of and relationships with others and the world are shaped in language. | how narrative shapes perceptions | Students must study one of a choice of 3-4 texts per elective. These texts cover a range of literary and non-literary genres. |
| Elective 2. | Student choice | |
| the interpersonal nature of dialogue | Students must also choose other texts as a basis for comparison. These should include a range of forms, modes and media. | |
| Elective 3 | ||
| the various ways images shape meaning |