English
AIMS:
The English Department aims to…
- Develop students’ ability to use English effectively in both its written and spoken form;
- Provide an opportunity for students to engage with a range of fiction and non-fiction texts;
- Encourage students to form valued opinions and respond critically to information they may read or hear in the media and,
- Equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in daily life beyond the classroom and the working environment.
KEY STAGE 3
Students have the opportunity to study a range of engaging topics, such as: Prose, Non-fiction Texts, Poetry, Spoken Language and Advertising. Each topic has been chosen carefully to mirror the GCSE English Language course and allow for a structured progression between the key stages.
Good communication skills are at the forefront of Key Stage 3 study. Speaking and Listening tasks are embedded into units of work to allow students to grow in confidence before entering GCSE level.
The English Department also provide Key Stage 3 students with access to an array of newly stocked fiction and non-fiction texts. We encourage all students to read novels that are suitably challenging and to develop a lifelong love of reading.
KEY STAGE 4
At Key Stage 4 we follow CCEA’s GCSE English Language course. This two year course provides opportunities for assessment throughout Year 11 and 12. Students will be assessed on their Reading, Writing and Speaking and Listening skills.
English Literature is also offered at Key Stage 4. Students will study a variety of literature including the Study of Prose, Poetry and Drama.
Essential Skills is offered to a selection of students to further support their learning.
KEY STAGE 5
Students are given the option to study A Level English Literature. This stimulating course involves an in-depth study of a range of texts across a variety of time periods and cultures. Students will be assessed through external examination and controlled assessment.