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.

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.