Media release
VCE Student Wins Chance to Compete in National Plain English Award
[31July 2006]
A year 12 VCE student from Mount Scopus Memorial College, Daniel White today won the Victorian State Final of the Plain English Speaking Award.
Daniel’s prepared speech and an impromptu talk won him the right to represent Victoria at the National Plain English Speaking Award in Brisbane on Monday, August 21.
Daniel was one of six finalists from across Victoria who talked their way through regional and semi-finals in the award, which is co-ordinated by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority and supported by the Australia-Britain Society.
Daniel had some stiff competition from the runner up, Melbourne High School Captain, Alexander Chapman. The other four state finalists included Patricia Niklas, MacRobertson Girls’ High School; Kate Ottrey, Ballarat and Clarendon College; Geoffrey Pascoe, Mildura Senior College; and Isabelle Prentice from Ruyton Girls’ School.
The students were challenged to present a speech on a social issue using the clearest and most succinct language possible.
Some 193 Victorian students from government, independent and Catholic schools have entered the competition this year.
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority chief executive John Firth said the competition helped students build self-confidence.
“The aim of the competition is to encourage students to use plain English, avoiding clichés and other expressions that can reduce the power of language,” Mr Firth said.
“The VCE strongly encourages the development of students’ oral communication skills and it is pleasing to see a diverse range of accomplished speakers emerging from schools across the state.”
The Plain English Speaking Award began in Victoria in 1977.The State Final took place at the Treasury Theatre, 1 Macarthur St, Melbourne, from 10am to midday on Friday, July 28.
Media enquiries: Justin Shortal, Public Affairs Manager, VCAA on 03 96514646 / 0437 002 945
