At the beginning in Year 7, English is taught in mixed ability with 2 support groups on either side of the timetable. In years 8 to 11 students are in sets and there is an express group for the more able. Students in years 7 to 9 all have dedicated Library lessons where they are taught how to use the Library and given quiet reading time.

Key Stage 4
Students follow an integrated English Language and English Literature course through Year 9 and English Language and English Literature course or English course in years 10 and 11. Those students in sets 1-3 will follow English Language and Literature and those in sets 4 - 5 will follow English.

In English we create 2 Learning Pathways (English Language and Literature or English). Sets 1 to 3 will follow the English Language and Literature courses. These are the students whose attainment demonstrates the highest ability. The students who are invited into this group must be willing to put in extra time in exploring additional texts. Students who embark on the English course focus on English GCSE as a priority.

In yeas 9, the focus will be on controlled assessments with students completing the assessments for English Language and English Literature. In Year 10 the focus is on controlled assessments and the Unit 1 English exam. The focus in Year 11 is on the texts set for the Literature examination and the final controlled assessments.

The courses for all subjects are demanding, and students must be well organised and consistent in their efforts. Controlled Assessments produced throughout Years 10 and 11 cannot be redrafted so assessment contributing to the students' final grades will begin very early in the course.

Ways in which English and Media help students to prepare for the world or work :

• Accuracy in written and spoken communication.
• Confidence in public speaking/ formal speaking.
• Confidence in making presentations.
• Development of skills in writing reports/ memos/ formal letters.
• Development of skills in understanding tone, nuance and implication in writing.
• Development of own written skills in utilising tone, nuance and implication.
• Functional skills to allow students ease of access in relation to workplace activities.
• A clear understanding of the structure of the English language.
• Awareness of how visual media manipulates the way we view our world.

Mr L Simpson
Head of English Faculty

Links
Dictionary

Sample Schemes of Work
Inform, explain and describe
Argue, persuade and advise
Shrek
Spoken Language

Sample Lesson Plans
Lesson Plan 1 - Year 11 Say No
Lesson Plan 2 - Year 7 Shrek

Syllabus Specifications
AQA English
AQA Media
AQA English Language
AQA English Literature

Reading Lists
Author Links
Key Stage 3 Suggested Reading List
30 Books for Key Stage 3 Gifted and Talented Readers
Easier Reads