English has a pre-eminent place in education and in society. A high-quality education in English will give students the opportunity to read a variety of increasingly challenging texts for information and for pleasure.
Students will continue to develop their knowledge of, and skills in, writing so that they can write academically and imaginatively equally well. Students will also be taught to control their speaking consciously and to use standard English.
Oratory skills will also be encouraged through student assemblies and outer community projects and presentations, so students can improve their oratory skills and gain confidence of speaking in front of a group. Artistic expression is also encouraged through the writing and presentation of poetry and music as well as artistic workshops and drama performances.
We want our students to display a good understanding and love for learning English; they will display this by:
• reading easily, fluently and with good understanding
• developing the habit of reading widely and often
• acquiring a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language
• appreciating our rich and varied literary heritage here in the U.K.
• writing clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style for a range of different contexts, purposes and audiences
• using discussion in order to learn
• being confident in making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate.
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Drama and will be incorporated into the English curriculum. It aims to unlock the use of imagination, intellect, empathy and courage. Through it, ideas, responses and feelings can be expressed and communicated; it is a practical subject and an intellectual discipline.
Through engagement in drama, students apply their imaginations and draw upon their own personal experiences. Their increasing knowledge and understanding of how the elements of drama work enables them to effectively shape, express and share their ideas, feelings and responses to various projects.
At Key Stage 3 the schemes of learning are designed using elements from the GCSE Drama & GCSE/BTEC Performing Arts curriculum, this allows students to experience exploration of plays & themes, historical and contemporary performance, creating their own performance and understanding how the creative industries work.
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