At St Matthews we are committed to fostering strong literacy skills, and this year we continue to focus on developing students’ writing abilities. Writing is a crucial skill that empowers students to express their ideas clearly, think critically, and communicate effectively across all subjects and beyond the classroom.

Our school-wide literacy initiative is evidence based following the Guidance Report ‘Improving literacy in secondary schools’ which provides recommendations to support students in improving their writing through structured strategies and targeted teaching. Teachers across all Key Learning Areas have set a focus and are incorporating explicit writing instruction into their lessons, ensuring that students receive consistent support and practice.

Stage 4

Students continue to focus on paragraphing by developing sentence structure, strengthening vocabulary and using evidence to support arguments. In Maths the literacy focus is on explaining and communicating mathematical reasoning. 

Stage 5

Students are increasingly exposed to the use of NESA key verbs such as identify, explain, analyse, and evaluate. By explicitly teaching these verbs and their application in writing, students will develop a clearer understanding of how to structure their responses effectively in different subjects.

Stage 6

Students continue to break down and respond to complex questions by following the 7 steps. Furthermore, we are increasing our focus on incorporating the use of sample responses and exemplars. Seeing successful examples helps students understand what is achievable and provides a reference point for further developing their own writing and mathematical reasoning. Sample responses encourage students to evaluate writing quality, recognise effective techniques, and apply them to their own work.

Parents and caregivers can also play a vital role in supporting this initiative. Encouraging students to write at home, discussing their ideas, and reviewing their work together can reinforce the skills they are developing in class. By strengthening writing skills, we are equipping our students with the tools they need for academic success and lifelong communication. We look forward to seeing their growth and achievements throughout the year.

Year 11 Business Studies and Legal Studies students co-constructing a response to a short answer question after evaluating work samples.

Year 12 Mathematics Advanced students complete practice HSC questions in exam-like conditions and then use the marking criteria and sample response to peer mark.

Melodie Coleman | Literacy Coach