English

Years 4, 5 and 6

In the Junior Years, we focus on:

• Talking
  Class and group discussions, debating, presentations, etc
  
  
• Listening
  Listening to and discussing stories, games, following instructions, etc
  
  
• Writing
  Handwriting, extended writing, grammar, punctuation and structure.
  
  
• Reading
  Structured and independent reading including skills development using a variety of genres.

These skills are integrated into a meaningful curriculum, aimed at producing individuals who are both confident and competent in the English Language. We continually assess these skills, ensuring progression at an individual level.

Years 7 and 8

The Year 7 and 8 English scheme follows the National Curriculum, Key Stage 3 and the Common Entrance syllabus. We aim to encourage fluency, competence, confidence and enjoyment in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Oral work becomes an integral element for written work.

A variety of different texts are covered with each year group, including poetry, prose, plays and factual material. Diverse forms of writing are studied in order to foster an awareness of appropriate styles, content and register, for varying purposes and audiences.

Work is always differentiated in order to take into account the individual needs of pupils.

The English course is designed to provide a base for continuing the study of language and literature and encourages independent study and learning, including the use of the library, reference books, the Internet and ICT facilities. The pupils have access to wireless laptop computers, which are frequently used during the lessons and organised prep periods in the evenings.