English is vital for communicating with others in school and in the wider world, and is fundamental to learning in all curriculum subjects. In studying English, pupils develop skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing that they will need to participate in society and employment. Pupils learn to express themselves creatively and imaginatively and to communicate with others confidently and effectively.
Literature in English is rich and influential. It reflects the experiences of people from many countries and times and contributes to our sense of cultural identity. Pupils learn to become enthusiastic and critical readers of stories, poetry and drama as well as non-fiction and media texts, gaining access to the pleasure and world of knowledge that reading offers. Looking at the patterns, structures, origins and conventions of English helps pupils understand how language works. Using this understanding, pupils can choose and adapt what they say and write in different situations, as well as appreciate and interpret the choices made by other writers and speakers.
English at King´s College, Murcia
English is a core subject and an important tool to allow pupils to access the curriculum. At Key Stage 3, English develops pupils´ reading, writing, and speaking and listening skills as they progress through the National Curriculum levels. Year 7 to 9 use the text books Edges 1, 2 and 3 as well as following a Termly theme; such as Shakespeare, Horror and Stories, Myths and Legends. We also read a range of poetry from different genres and one novel per term including Skellig, Boy, Chinese Cinderella and To Kill a Mocking Bird. Each pupil is assessed regularly and their work is levelled at least three times per term.
At Key Stage 4, pupils are prepared for the IGCSE in English Language and Literature at the end of Year 11. In Year 10 we focus on improving pupils´ reading and writing. We use the text book 'First Language English' to study a range of fiction and non-fiction texts, practise answers with quotes and analysis and write in a range of styles such as letters, diaries, articles and stories. Furthermore, we prepare the pupils for the Literature Exam by reading the novel, 'Of Mice and Men' and the play, 'A View From the Bridge' and practising essays on theme and character. In Year 11 we move on to the Edexcel Anthology which is a range of fiction and non-fiction extracts tested in the Language Exam. We also analyse the poems in the Anthology tested in the Literature Exam and revise the novel and play. Overall, we aim to thoroughly prepare pupils for both IGCSEs, fully develop their literacy skills and actively encourage their creativity.
Drama
Pupils have one Drama lesson a week from Year 6 to Year 9. Drama is an enjoyable subject and an excellent way of building pupils’ confidence, as well as giving them the opportunity to work in groups. Other benefits include allowing pupils to explore a range of topical issues, developing empathy skills and expressing their own opinions. We use a range of texts from playscripts to photographs or songs. In each year group pupils take part in a range of Drama activities such as role play, improvisation, hot seating, monologues and self and group evaluation.
