English

The English Department

Within the academy we strive to create a learning environment, curriculum, experiences and relationships in which all individuals can find expression, be nourished and developed. The academy commits itself to creating an environment for everyone that is characterised by our core values of Truth, Justice, Forgiveness, Generosity and Respect.

English KS3
We aim to ensure that English skills are developed within a supportive environment and that creativity and independence are encouraged. Members of the English Department share a love of their subject and a determination to provide English lessons for all our pupils that are lively, stimulating and challenging. The skills developed in English are central for access to the full curriculum. Literacy and communication skills are essential if students are to leave school equipped to deal with the demands of modern life. The English Department strive to develop these skills in each and every student. We aim to engage students in activities that will capture their interest and encourage them to take an active part in their learning.

English teachers aim to ensure that all students learn:

  • to communicate effectively in speech and writing,
  • to understand and respond imaginatively and critically to what they hear,
  • to read and experience a variety of media
  • to enjoy both modern and classical literature in all its forms

The aim is that the students should acquire regular habits of reading, writing and taking part in speaking and listening activities. Through this work they will be helped to develop their skills in these areas. We hope they will also enjoy their lessons and their homework.

STUDENTS WILL READ:
a range of stories, novels, poetry, plays, non-fiction and media texts.
 STUDENTS WILL NEED TO:
  • show that they can understand what they have read
  • take part in class and group discussion activities
  • produce a range of different types of writing, e.g. stories, poems, plays, letters and opinion writing
  • plan their writing
  • write clearly and accurately
  • learn to check and edit their writing
  • use ICT as a tool for research and to enhance writing skills
  • develop their note taking skills
  • give a short talk to the class
  • take part in some problem based learning and develop their research and organisational skills.

 

PARENTS CAN HELP BY:
  • reading and commenting on students’ written work
  • listening to students reading aloud from their library book
  • discussing the books that are brought home
  • helping students to learn their individual spelling lists.

 

English KS4

STUDENTS WILL STUDY:

AQA GCSE English Language
Curriculum Progress Leader: Mrs Jardine

GCSE 9-1     2 exams     1 Non-Examination Assessment

Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading & Writing (50%)   1 hour 45 minute written exam

Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints & Perspectives (50%)   1 hour 45 minute written exam

Non-examination Assessment: Spoken Language

Links to further information:

English Language and GCSE English language and GCSE English literature

 

AQA GCSE English Literature

Curriculum Progress Leader: Mrs Jardine

GCSE 9-1      2 exams

Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th-century novel (40%)   1 hour 45 minute written exam

Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry (60%)   2 hour 15 minute written exam

Links to further information:

English Literature and GCSE English language and GCSE English literature