In 2016, we carried out a consultation with teachers and other key stakeholders on the refresh of the Scottish set text list for National 5 and Higher English. Based on the findings of this consultation, we have now published a refreshed set text list for implementation in session 2018-19. This is a minor refresh, which provides opportunities for new texts to be studied, while also ensuring a minimal impact on resources. A web-based consultation* on which texts should be used (which included providing the opportunity for respondents to make additional suggestions). The following report details the findings of our consultation and provides more information on how we gathered the views of teachers and stakeholders. All centres were notified of the consultation in advance of it being carried out. As well as commenting on a suggested list of texts, respondents were given the opportunity to suggest Scottish texts they thought should be included. As a result of these discussions, we further increased the number of titles in each genre (drama, prose poetry) to include a wide representation of both established and more recent Scottish writers.

The Higher English Course provides learners with the opportunity to develop listening, talking, reading and writing skills that will enable them to understand and use language. Building on literacy skills, Learners will develop their understanding of the complexities of language by studying a wide range of texts and building on their literacy skills. The course also develops high levels of analytical thinking and understanding of the impact of language. The Qualification Design Team (QDT) for English, which consistedof Principal Teachers and Faculty Heads of English, as well as other key stakeholder representatives, commented on the suggested list and also discussed a list submitted by the Association of Scottish Literary Studies (ASLS) nominated representative on the QDT. This was followed by practitioner focus groups (x8) which looked at the outcomes of the web consultation and associated issues. During the 2011/2012 exam diet, theteam of examiners was asked to draw up a listof Scottish texts commonly answered on by candidates in the previousIntermediate 1 and Intermediate 2 English exams.Detailed work was undertaken by an SQA English Subject Working Group (SWG) to finalise the list of set Scottish texts (in the categories of prose, drama and poetry). The SWG had been tasked to look at the suitability of texts for assessment, to consider overlap between National 5 and Higher, and to finalise the list. The SWG also looked across the list for National 5 and Higher English to ensure there is a balance of familiar, established texts as well as texts which are more recent. The SWG consisted of current practitioners (from schools and colleges) and SQA examiners.

Ashbrook then presented their findings to a Special Joint Curriculum Area Review Group/Qualification Design Team Meeting. Read the Ashbrook report (1.08 MB).Between September ¿ November 2012 we used an external consultancy agency (Ashbrook Research and Consultancy) to independently gather practitioners¿ views. There were two parts to this consultation: