Subject Overview

English at Savio Salesian College provides pupils with functional skills to communicate effectively, unlock lifelong prospects as well as opportunities to engage with texts, think critically and gain an appreciation of unfamiliar contexts.

A range of strategies are used to cater to the needs of individual learners, making use of technology and creative approaches to help pupils enjoy English.

Pupils are expected to complete one homework task per week and are encouraged to read widely outside of school to build their vocabulary and imagination, as well as improving understanding and concentration skills.

Here are some suggested websites to support learning in English:

http://learnenglishteens.britishcouncil.org/skills

http://www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise/english

http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/z3kw2hv

Key Stage 3 Overview (Years 7-9)

Pupils follow the national programme of study, the aims of which are that pupils

• read easily, fluently and with good understanding
• develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information
• acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language
• appreciate our rich and varied literary heritage
• write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences
• use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas are competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate.
  

This is achieved through:

Reading

• develop an appreciation and love of reading, and read increasingly challenging material independently
• understand increasingly challenging texts
• read critically
  

Writing

• write accurately, fluently, effectively and at length for pleasure and information
• plan, draft, edit and proof-read
  

Grammar and Vocabulary

• pupils will learn to consolidate and build on their knowledge of grammar and vocabulary
  

 Spoken English

• pupils will learn to speak confidently and effectively 

Key Stage 4 Overview (Years 10-11)

QUALIFICATIONS:
AQA GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
AQA GCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE

At Key Stage 4 all pupils are given the opportunity to achieve two GCSEs, following the AQA specification in English Literature and English Language. The courses are taught over two years and pupils will be awarded a grade between 9-1.

English Language

Pupils sit two examinations: all texts in the examinations for English Language are unseen.