English
Statement of Intent
Through Jesus, light of the world, we ignite the spark of curiosity,
creativity and individuality.
At Killinghall, we believe that a high-quality English curriculum is of vital importance. We strive to provide an inspirational English curriculum for our children that allows them to develop into confident, creative writers, readers and communicators. We understand that developing strong literacy skills in primary school plays a key role in the ability of children to successfully navigate the later years of their school life, and indeed the years beyond education. Therefore, our carefully sequenced, broad and balanced curriculum, underpinned by inclusive practice, provides our children with the opportunity to build on their experiences in order to achieve their goals.
Our high-quality English curriculum inspires our pupils to:
* read easily, fluently and with good understanding
* develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information
* read a variety of fiction, non-fiction texts and poems
* 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.
Writing at Killinghall
How do we teach writing?
We teach transcription and composition through our writing curriculum. Pupils are taught to form, articulate and communicate ideas, and then organise them coherently for a reader. Our teaching sequences inspire children to explore different purposes for writing, key elements of genres and to explore good quality examples to scaffold their own written work. Pupils learn to evaluate the effectiveness of their writing by editing, redrafting and sharing their thoughts and opinions, fully supported by adults and their peers. We aim for our children to leave our school with the ability to write using their own style of fast, fluent, legible and sustainable handwriting.
Holding our pens correctly
As soon as children are ready to start writing, we teach them how to hold their pencils correctly using the 'nip, flip and grip' technique.
Sitting effectively to write
At Killinghall, we focus not only on the content of what children write but also on the mechanics of writing itself. This includes ensuring that they sit correctly and hold their pens and pencils in the right way. Good posture and grip are essential for developing healthy writing habits, which can significantly impact their ability to write for longer periods without discomfort. Pupils are encouraged to sit like an effective writer in their best sitting position.
Oracy
At Killinghall, we understand that spoken language underpins the development of reading and writing. We know that the quality and variety of language that pupils hear and speak are vital for developing their vocabulary and grammar and their understanding for reading and writing. Therefore, through our inspiring curriculum we continually develop pupils' confidence and competence in spoken language and listening skills. Pupils are given plenty of opportunities to explain their understanding of books and other reading, and to prepare their ideas before they write. Regularly in Praise Assembly on a Friday, pupils share their work aloud in front of the rest of the school.
Spelling in Key Stage 2.
Spelling is taught on a weekly basis and each lesson has a main objective from the National Curriculum appendix for spelling. As part of our commitment to providing the best learning experiences for our children, at Killinghall we use Spelling Shed in Key Stage Two to enhance spelling skills in a fun and interactive way.
Spelling Shed is an engaging online platform designed to offer a wide range of activities that cater to different learning styles, making spelling practice enjoyable for everyone. Each child will have opportunities to play games, complete challenges, and earn rewards as they progress through various spelling lists tailored to their year group. This approach not only reinforces the spelling rules and patterns outlined in the National Curriculum but also encourages a sense of achievement and motivation in our students.
Each week, the class teacher sets the list of words the pupils are learning each week on Spelling Shed to practise at home as part of their homework and they will be able to monitor their progress. Consistency is key, and these short, regular sessions can significantly improve their confidence and proficiency.
Useful Websites
Coming soon...