English

English

Intent

We aim to deliver a high quality English curriculum that gives children the best possible opportunities to become confident, literate, successful members of society with a deep love and understanding of the English language and literature. We believe the development of literacy skills is central to improving a child's life chances. Teachers have high expectations for all children to achieve and enjoy English and to be able to use the skills they have acquired in a range of contexts. We strive to ensure all children can communicate clearly in spoken and written form and become masters of language.

Implementation 

We use high quality texts from a range of types including texts with archaic language, Non-Linear Time Sequences, Complex Narratives, Symbolic/figurative language and resistant texts. Teachers choose a text from a list of novels and they are studied for a term in KS2 and half a term in KS1. All elements of the English curriculum are linked to the chosen text. This ensures children have a deepened understanding of the text and skills are contextualised ready for writing.

We understand that transcription skills and language composition are important for children to become competent writers.  All elements of the English curriculum are taught in weekly SPaG lessons, dictation lessons and writing lessons around their chosen text. This ensures children have a deepened understanding of the text and taught skills are contextualised in their writing. We use high quality texts from a range of types including texts with archaic language, Non-Linear Time Sequences, Complex Narratives, Symbolic/figurative language and resistant texts. Teachers choose a text from a list of novels and they are studied for a term in KS2 and half a term in KS1. 

How can I support my child with English?

• Promote a love of reading by sharing books together

• Seize opportunities to read for a purpose eg in the supermarket, road signs, window posters etc.

• Provide opportunities for your child to practise their phonics/spelling homework. Be creative eg making words in the environment; making word pyramids or spelling stairs; rainbow writing; use fancy letters of different fonts; saying your words in a silly voice; cheer leading chants.

• Find opportunities for your child to write for different purposes eg a letter or email to grandparents; shopping lists, recipes, little notes; making little books and stories; keep a diary.

• Celebrate your child’s work and achievements at every possible chance. Promote taking pride in their work eg good handwriting to make it easy for the reader.