English
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” - Dr Suess
English: Intent, Implementation and Impact
In our English Department, we believe that developing a student’s love of the subject should be at the heart of their learning experience. We pride ourselves on delivering engaging lessons that are tailored to the individual needs of our students.
We understand that many students may not have had a positive experience of studying English in the past and we make it our mission to provide an engaging and focused learning environment that enables students to rediscover their love of English language and literature to achieve their potential. Students who are successful learners in English can enjoy increased achievement across other areas of the curriculum.
At Key Stage 3 we focus on developing Reading, Writing and Speaking & Listening skills, exploring both fiction and non-fiction texts, including both pre-1914 ad contemporary literature, poetry and drama. Throughout each module, teachers focus on the development of a particular skill set and, using a range of teaching resources, allow for differentiation across a spectrum of abilities. Working in small groups enables us to adapt to the students’ needs whilst ensuring they are appropriately challenged to reach their potential.
Students will also study spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPaG) to reinforce and build on their learning. Students may also study Phonics where it is appropriate to their needs.
Students are assessed when they first join the school to determine their reading age and spelling ability in order to ensure they are working in the appropriate learning group. Further assessments will be made at the end of each module and on an annual basis to monitor their academic progress.
At Key Stage 4, students will work towards a recognised qualification that will prepare them for life beyond Batchwood School. These qualifications include AQA GCSEs in English Language and Literature, AQA Entry Level Certificate in English and AQA English Functional Skills. These qualifications can allow students the opportunity to continue their education at college, apply for apprenticeship or successfully enter the workplace.
Entry Level Certificate
Step up to English helps students to build basic and relevant literacy skills vital for life after school.
Batchwood offers both Silver Step (Entry Level 1 and 2) and Gold Step (Entry Level 3). This qualification is achieved purely in-class through a choice of themed papers assessing skills in reading, writing and speaking and listening.
Functional Skills
Functional Skills is offered to many of our students and can be entered at both Levels 1 and 2. It gives students practical skills for life, learning and work and is equivalent to GCSE grades D - G at Level 1 and GCSE grades A – C at level 2.
It aims to ensure students have good communication skills in reading, writing as well as speaking and listening. Level 2 allows students the opportunity to create a presentation on their chosen topic, building confidence in public speaking – a great asset in today’s climate.
AQA GCSE English Language
Students studying this course will develop skills to read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts and to develop their own writing clearly.
Assessment consists of two equally weighted exams, assessing reading and writing skills as well as a separate spoken language assessment, which does not form part of their GCSE.
AQA GCSE English Literature
Our English Literature course aims to inspire, challenge and motivate students in their love of literature. Students will study a range of texts including a Shakespeare play, a 19th Century novel, a modern text as well as a range of poetry.
Assessment is made through two closed-book exams where students can show their knowledge, skills and understanding through extended responses.
Their Last Breath
by Millie
Walking through the tunnel of death,
Choking up their last breath.
Hell is the game,
Who is to blame?
Mars is our god, our ruler,
He led us here, there’s nothing crueller.
Heavy weight upon our backs,
From the condiments in our sacks.
Approaching the hand of hell,
Holding our noses from the smell.
A man is hurt; he’s crying.
Looks as if he’s dying.
He grabs me, drowning in blood,
He falls back to the mud.
We watch his face go pale,
His family awaits the mail.
Waiting here in shock,
God looks down to mock.
We suffered and died in pain,
Who is to blame?
