English
This Term
This half term KS3 have taken on a survival mission to find Bruce (our school dog). We are exploring non-fiction texts so we are being creative in our English sessions. We are using Newspapers and letters to find clues and have also enjoyed a scavenger hunt. Being active in English has helped learners to connect with English in a new way.
KS4 Learners have been focusing on engaging with their GCSE paper one, working together to craft key response.
As a whole school we are also reading daily and engaging with groups texts such as "Noughts and Crosses" and "The Wizards of Once". This is helping to build valuable discussions within our tutor groups and exposing learners to a broad spectrum of new vocabulary. Reading is a vital skill that will support our learners to access opportunities both now and moving into adulthood.
Curriculum Intent:
Reading is the golden thread that runs through the English curriculum. The aim is that all students will see themselves as “readers” and through this develop a broader vocabulary and be able to use what they read as a model for their own writing.
Students will: read literary fiction and non-fiction to develop critical reading skills and techniques; develop their creative writing skills and write in a variety of forms for a range of different audiences and purposes; benefit from speaking and listening opportunities for discussion, debate and presentation.
KS3
At KS3 the curriculum is built around themes and big ideas whilst building confidence in reading and writing skills which will lead them towards qualifications at KS4. Half termly topics are structured around the skills examined at GCSE whilst also enjoying texts from literary traditions and authors. The curriculum offers the opportunity to study contemporary and historical plays, poetry, novels and short stories to develop an understanding and appreciation of different forms and genres.
KS4
At KS4 students will have the opportunity to build on the knowledge and skills that they have acquired in KS3. They will develop skills in language and structural analysis, evaluation and comparing and contrasting across a range of texts. They will also further develop their creative and transactional writing skills.