English is one the most popular subject completed in the VCE. All VCE students must complete English. Check out our tutor’s Alan’s experience and how got a 50.
What score did you achieve in VCE English?
I achieved a raw study score of 50 in English in 2021.
How did you study for VCE English? What techniques did you use to study?
As I mentioned earlier, feedback was at the core of my English study. I constantly shared ideas and drafts to get fresh perspectives. But one thing I think many students overlook – especially in highly competitive environments – is that your cohort is not your competition. Share your best ideas with your classmates. If you do, people will return the favour. And often, a new perspective from a peer can unlock more depth in your own writing.
What is your advice for VCE English students for the SACs?
Get as much feedback as possible. I know this might sound obvious, but it was the single most important factor in my improvement. Whether it's a teacher, tutor, or someone you trust, share everything you write with them. Take their feedback seriously, refine your work, and show it to them again. This cycle of constant improvement, rather than settling for your first draft, is what I believe separates top students. Reworking the same ideas isn’t lazy, as long as you’re learning and applying the feedback.
It doesn’t always have to be full essays. Working through paragraphs or extended ideas can be just as valuable.
If you’re serious about improving, go beyond what your teacher sets for the whole class. But remember, you’re not alone. Make use of the support around you
Text Analysis and Creating Text
When it comes to text analysis and creative SACs, my advice is simple: never walk into the SAC needing to come up with something completely new on the spot. While it may seem daunting to prepare for every possible prompt, you'll quickly realise how narrow the scope of questions VCAA can ask really is.
Start by compiling as many prompts as you can, ask your teacher, search online, or look through past papers. For each prompt, jot down three potential arguments, even if they're not fully developed. Whenever you find that an idea can be reused, do it, but make sure you adapt it to suit the new context or wording of the prompt.
Argument Analysis
A common trap in argument analysis is retelling the article. Don’t fall into it. Your job is not to summarise, but to explain and analyse. I followed the rule of discussing 2-3 pieces of evidence per paragraph, max. Instead of listing techniques, focus on what the evidence is doing – what effect it’s trying to have, and how it positions the audience. Almost over-explain what the author is trying to do.
Also, be precise in describing the audience. Don’t just say "conservatives" – tailor your description based on the article. Is the evidence your discussing aimed at older or younger people, wealthier or poorer, emotionally involved or completely opposed, acknowledge that. These details show a deeper understanding a lot of students understand but fail to articulate
What is your advice for VCE English students for the end of year exams?
Use reading time to its full potential. I believe the best way to maximise your score is to maximise your writing time. In those first few minutes, reassure yourself that you have three main points for the text analysis and decide on your premise for the creating texts response. That way, when you return to those tasks, you already have a plan.
Then move to your argument analysis. Mentally map out how you’ll divide the article and what specific pieces of evidence you’ll focus on. As soon as the writing time begins, you should be writing – not planning.
It’s difficult, yes, but if you practice doing this in practice exams, it will make a huge difference. Even a few extra minutes can have a major impact on your final score.
What resources did you use for VCE English?
Yes, past high-scoring responses were my #1 resource. They're absolute goldmines. Read them, analyse them, borrow ideas and structure, then make them your own. There’s no better way to understand what high quality work looks like than to study examples of it.
How did you balance study with the rest of your life during VCE?
My experience might have been a bit different since I graduated in 2021, during COVID. That made finding balance even more important. Year 12 is significant, but so are the other parts of your life – your friendships, sport, downtime, and passions. You shouldn’t have to give up who you are just for your ATAR.
One habit I’ve carried into university is time-limiting my study. For example, if I set a three-hour study limit for the night, I stop once I reach that, no matter what I get done. It’s a great way to beat procrastination because it creates a clear reward: once you’re done, you get to relax. It helped me stay motivated and focused.
Any other comments you would like to share?
A lot of people don’t like English but unfortunately, we all have to do it. Try to write about things that at least interest you a bit. Trying to make it as fun as possible can make all the difference.
