English
The proficient use of English is central to all areas of our curriculum. In studying English pupils develop skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. It enables them to express themselves creatively and imaginatively and to communicate with others effectively.
Pupils learn to become enthusiastic and critical readers of stories, poetry and drama, as well as non-fiction and media texts. The study of English helps pupils understand how language works by studying its patterns, structures and origins. Using this knowledge, pupils learn to choose and adapt what they say and write in different situations.
We follow the requirements of the national Curriculum, Common Entrance and we prepare pupils for scholarship to Public Schools.
The skills of speaking and listening with confidence are encouraged though discussions, readings, presentations and recordings. Drama is incorporated as an extension of language work and the range of activities includes, improvisation, scripting and performing plays and responding to performances. In Years 4, 5 and 7 children participate in the English Speaking Board’s assessment while year-group plays are performed by years 3, 6 and 8.
Reading is taught and encouraged through a wide variety of methods and the development of fluency, prediction, understanding and expression is emphasised. As fluency is developed the emphasis shifts to advanced reading at text level. Comprehension skills are developed and both Reading and Spelling levels for all pupils are assessed annually.
Attention is given to language work and to the correct use of grammar, punctuation and spelling. This is developed in conjunction with writing, where the pupils are taught to write appropriately and imaginatively in a variety of genres, as well as in specifically structured lessons. In addition, they are taught to use the dictionary, thesaurus and other information sources available in libraries and on computers.
Information and Communication Technology is incorporated where appropriate in lessons and specific sessions take place in the ICT suite with specialist staff on hand to work alongside the English teacher. PC’s are available in all of the teaching rooms.
