n NSW, Year 10 English marks the culmination of Stage 5 and plays a critical role in preparing students for the demands of Stage 6. At this point, students are expected not only to understand texts but to analyse how meaning is shaped through language, form, and structure. From a tutoring perspective, staying on track in Year 10 English is less about content knowledge and more about developing disciplined habits of thinking and writing.

One of the most significant challenges Year 10 students face is managing the jump in expectations outlined by the NSW English syllabus. Tasks increasingly require students to compose sustained analytical responses, integrate textual evidence smoothly, and demonstrate an understanding of context and purpose. Many students struggle because they approach each assessment as a standalone task rather than as part of an ongoing skill-building process. In tutoring sessions, I emphasise that skills such as paragraph structure, thesis development, and textual analysis are transferable across modules and text types. Confidence is another recurring issue. By Year 10, students are expected to form independent interpretations and justify them with evidence. However, many hesitate to trust their ideas, fearing they are “wrong.” Explicitly teaching strategies such as unpacking directive verbs, annotating assessment questions, and linking techniques to meaning helps students feel more secure in their responses. When students understand that NESA values well-supported interpretations rather than fixed answers, their engagement improves.
Consistency is key to staying on track. Regular, low-pressure practice—such as refining topic sentences or analysing a single quotation—can significantly improve writing over time. Encouraging students to actively apply teacher feedback to future tasks is particularly important, as it aligns with the NSW emphasis on reflection and improvement.

Ultimately, Year 10 English in NSW is about building the skills and confidence students need to transition successfully into senior English. With clear structure, targeted support, and a focus on process, students are far more likely to remain engaged, organised, and prepared for the challenges ahead.

Anthea Preketes