English
In this section, the English department provides an overview of the KS3 curriculum and resources to aid revision and support progress.
Department Contacts
Staff | Role | |
---|---|---|
Mrs L Field | Head of Department | Lynne.Field@thewisbechacademy.org |
Purpose of Study
English is a core component of the National Curriculum, covering the key skills students need to be confident readers and communicators. English lessons at TWA aim to spark students’ curiosity, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a deep appreciation for the written and spoken word. English lessons develop students’ skills in analysing a range of complex texts, writing a range of fiction and non-fiction texts with confidence and accuracy and speaking and listening with increasing confidence. At TWA, we aim to instil a lifelong love of reading and writing, giving our students the tools to thrive.
What makes English at TWA Special?
The English teachers at TWA are passionate about sharing their love of literature with students, striving to ignite the same enthusiasm and curiosity they feel for their subject. They understand the critical role that reading and writing play in shaping future academic and economic success. To this end, they are committed to breaking down barriers and making these essential skills accessible to all learners.
The texts that we study are chosen to provide opportunities to explore both classical and modern literature whilst developing students’ critical analysis, creative writing, and communication skills. Cross-curricular links with subjects such as History, Drama and RE are made clear, developing students’ understanding of the world they live in.
Aims of the English Curriculum
The English curriculum at TWA is designed to build a robust foundation of literary knowledge and appreciation across various genres, providing regular opportunities for students to develop their writing skills through writing exercises that focus on critical analysis, creative expression, and clear and accurate communication. In addition, students practise their speaking and listening skills through a range of activities which encourage a deeper understanding of the texts they have read and offer opportunities to explore a range of increasingly complex ideas and scenarios.
Overview of the Year 7 Curriculum
Our Year 7 English curriculum provides a foundation of knowledge and skills which will support students in their future learning. Students will explore the following topics:
- Victorian Life – students explore this key period in literary history by reading a range of fiction and non-fiction texts, developing their understanding of how texts interact with their contexts.
- Private Peaceful – in this novel study students will read a novel as a class, exploring character and narrative development and writing creatively.
- Introduction to Shakespeare – in this unit, students learn about Shakespeare’s characters through a range of extracts. We also explore Shakespeare’s ideas and themes and the historical and social context of his writing.
Throughout the year, students use Sparx Reader for their homework. This platform allows students to access a wide library of books through the online platform. Students can access books anywhere and at any time, allowing them to develop a love of reading that goes beyond their assigned homework. In addition, TWA run a Student Journalism club as well as a range of English-themed competitions including Young Writers poetry and prose competitions and Reading Challenges.