What will my child learn in this subject?

Our Ethos

As English teachers we have a responsibility to develop the literacy skills needed to access learning and employment. We also have the privilege of helping our young people become thoughtful, compassionate citizens through the exploration of a wide range of literature. By studying high quality texts and having high expectations regarding pupils’ learning potential, our curriculum will allow them to develop the speaking, thinking, critical reading and writing skills needed to live successful and happy lives.

Our Aims

5 Year Plan 

By the time pupils complete their studying of English at Ecclesfield School, they will be critical thinkers, analytical readers and excellent communicators both verbally and on paper. Pupils will have been given the opportunity to engage with, enjoy and then produce a wide range of fiction and non-fiction literary texts in lessons and through their personal reading for pleasure which we will support by making use of our vibrant school library. We will ensure, in order to develop our pupils’ cultural capital and SMSC skills ensure that a diverse range of writers are included in our Curriculum. Pupils will also have experienced a wide range of enrichment opportunities, such as going to the theatre, taking part writing workshops, working with guest speakers and being taught by post-16 specialists.

Skills

• Pupils will be highly skilled users of the English language, being able to adapt their speech and writing for a variety of purposes and audiences.
• Pupils will be able to understand, infer and analyse a variety of texts, written or spoken.
• Pupils will be able to construct an effective argument both verbally and in the written form.
• Pupils will be able to work both independently and collectively.
• Pupils will be active listeners and effective speakers.

Knowledge

• Pupils will know and be able to use a wide range of Tier 2 and 3 vocabulary in order to allow them to articulately express their thoughts and feelings.
• Pupils will know and be able to effectively use the language features expected in a wide range of text types / purposes / genres in order to communicate with success.
• Pupils will have studied writers belonging to the literary canon and understand how they have influenced later works and societal reform.
• Pupils will understand how social and historical context impacts on a text.
• Pupils will understand how to structure examination responses.
• Pupils will know the importance of being critical thinkers, avid readers and lifelong learners.