English For Parents

Pupils are taught reading, writing, speaking and listening and SPAG (Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar).

The learning of writing comprises of two strands-transcription (spelling and handwriting) and composition (articulating ideas and structuring them in speech and writing). Our regular handwriting practice promotes legible, joined, consistent handwriting writing throughout the school. We use the Nelson Handwriting scheme to teach handwriting from EYFS to year 6. In KS1, spelling progression is linked to the learning of sounds (phonetic knowledge). Children are supported to learn to read and write through the use of Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised - a systematic, synthetic programme. In KS2, spelling is taught using Spelling Shed - a structured spelling programme that builds on children's early phonic knowledge and focuses on learning spelling rules and conventions. We follow Essential Writing for our English lessons which comprises high quality texts, including digital media and short films, to enhance children's vocabulary, creativity and knowledge of and ability to use figurative language in their writing. Grammar and punctuation are also taught so that children learn to control their speaking and writing consciously and have an increasing command of Standard English. Across the school, we have introduced Petersfield Perfect Prose to support children's learning about sentence structure.

Oracy continues to be a focus for our school after our work on the Talking Together Oracy project in 2018. Oracy is the ability to communicate effectively and lack of oracy skills can be a significant barrier to children’s attainment. Oral communication links well to all areas of the curriculum and is an essential life skill. Both research and our experience have shown that good oracy leads to higher order thinking and deeper understanding which support children’s progress in all areas of the curriculum.

Please see our document below 'Oracy Information: How to develop your child's oracy skills at home' to support oracy in the home. Speaking and listening opportunities are encouraged across the whole curriculum. In KS1 we encourage pupils to participate in showcasing their homework projects, presentation of their work to a group, drama activities and in class discussions. In KS2, pupils participate in discussions as a class, opportunities to prepare a talk, presentations on a topic and participate in debate and discussion.

Following the introduction of our new English scheme this academic year, Mrs Parkinson (our English lead) has updated our English policies and these will be added to the website after the upcoming Governing Body meeting.

Moving On Up