The English Course
In English pupils are taught in their form groups in years 7 and 8 and in mixed groups for years 9, 10 and 11. Teaching is varied and flexible in approach and, ultimately, governed by the needs and responses of the pupils.
Our approach is thematic, modular or text based. Pupils within each module are given the opportunity to demonstrate their ability in the National Curriculum target areas of Speaking and Listening, Reading and Writing.
During Year 7 pupils also follow a Library Skills course for information retrieval and to encourage their own private reading.
Themes and Modules
In Year 7 our aim is to encourage pupils’ development of technique, creativity and oral ability and, at the same time, foster an appreciation of a range of English literature including prose, poetry and drama. Pupils are introduced to these differing elements of literature through both pre and post 1914 works by influential authors.
In Year 9 pupils study the play ‘Macbeth’ or the play ‘Much Ado about Nothing’ in preparation for the Key Stage Three test in English. Not only does this provide an excellent opportunity to experience Shakespeare’s work, but also serves as an introduction to the syllabus in Years 10 and 11.
Year 7 English
Pupils in this age range often find it easier to deal with those concepts closely related to their feelings, background and environment. However, we do not forget that areas such as fantasy can play an important part in their work. We also introduce the study of literary texts and begin to teach the skills needed for the study of English Literature.
Pupils receive homework once a week. This is usually written work but can be reading or learning homework.
We aim to challenge and extend pupils in a supportive environment which will give everyone the confidence to do their best.
Achievement
The aim of the English Department is to enter all pupils in Year 11 for external examinations in English and English Literature. We are pleased by the consistently high achievement of our pupils in GCSE examinations and we continue to strive to help all pupils achieve their potential in English.
Pupils in English lessons produce a high standard of work in all year groups. The results of our pupils in Year 9 reflect the standard of achievement in years 7, 8 and 9 and create a valuable grounding for GCSE.
