English underpins pupils' achievements across the curriculum, building the confidence and accuracy in communication that is vital in school and in life.
The principle focus for teaching English in Primary School is to encourage high standards of language and literacy amongst all children. Equipping students with a variety of literature: fiction and non-fiction, and a solid grasp of the spoken and written language all comes together to increase their love of learning, especially in the English subject.
English is known as a core subject; therefore, it is compulsory for students to be taught English up until at least their GCSE or IGCE Examinations. In the Primary years, throughout Key Stages 1 and 2, children are taught to read and write through the use of phonics. Year 1 children all complete a Phonics Screening Test during the summer term to determine whether they need extra support with their reading. The Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 SATS also entail a large quantity of English questions, particularly with reading. In addition, spelling, punctuation and grammar (also known as SPaG).
The principle focus for teaching English at Key Stage 3 is to embed the core skills into students before they reach Key Stage 4.
Reading fluently, writing coherently and developing a wide vocabulary are a few of those skills. Students are encouraged to read as often as possible, not just for information but also for pleasure. A range of literature is encouraged from Shakespeare to modern day texts, however, choosing literature which they enjoy in their own time, can spark a love for reading and in turn, enhance their own grammar.
Spoken language will also emerge; through reading out loud in a classroom environment to undertaking formal presentations to their peers.
The principle focus for teaching English at Key Stage 4 is to build upon those skills they have been practicing throughout Key Stage 3; reading, writing, grammar and spoken English.
Reading should be more challenging, with poetry becoming a main source of literature. Students will analyse various sources of literature and be able to create their own opinions and debates. Students will practise their own formal writing, in addition to their creative writing using the imagination, wide vocabulary and literary terminology.
Spoken Language is also assessed at GCSE level, students should be able to speak effectively and confidently using Standard English.
The aim of the A-Level English Language course is to develop students' interest in and enjoyment of English, through learning about its structures, functions, development and variations, and their ability to apply linguistic frameworks to a wide variety of texts, to investigate and research language use, and to express themselves with increasing confidence, accuracy and sophistication.
The aim of the A-Level English Literature course is to develop students' interest in and enjoyment of English Literature, through reading widely, critically and independently and thus to gain a wider sense of the scope of literary study.
