English Curriculum Intent
Knightlow recognises the ultimate importance of the development of English knowledge and skills at the heart of all learning in order to be able to access life in all its fullness (John ch10 v10).
Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing are crucial for communication, and as such Knightlow’s curriculum is designed to both kindle the children’s enjoyment and drive their knowledge, understanding and skills in these across the breadth of learning. Through a combination of discrete English lessons, integrated learning topics and whole school projects and events Knightlow children develop their knowledge and skills in an interactive, creative and engaging way. Through an English curriculum that builds on fundamental key-skills systematically, whilst also providing opportunities to explore, imagine and invent we are confident that by the end of Key Stage Two Knightlow children will have acquired and mastered the following:
English Curriculum Implementation
Children will develop reading fluency and a wide range of reading comprehension skills that enable them to understand thematic, contextual, inferential, literal, structural and vocabulary focused questions. They will understand the value of reading for building knowledge and empathy and enhancing their own wellbeing. But most importantly Knightlow children will have developed a love and hunger for reading that inspires habits to read widely and often, for enjoyment, information and for life.
Knightlow children will understand the value of writing clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences.
A solid understanding of spelling, punctuation, and grammar is essential for clear, effective communication. Our SPAG lessons are engaging and interactive, ensuring children are equipped with the tools to write confidently and accurately.
Oracy – the ability to express oneself through spoken language – is a vital skill for every child. At Knightlow, we place a strong emphasis on developing children's speaking and listening skills. Children will develop fluent discussion skills that will aid and enhance learning and help them to articulate ideas and understanding clearly, using a well-considered and broad vocabulary.
English Curriculum Impact
The effective teaching of English will impact upon the pupils in the following ways:
• They will be able to read easily, fluently and with good understanding at the appropriate level.
• They will develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information.
• They will acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language at the appropriate level.
• They will appreciate our rich and varied literary heritage
• They will write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences at the appropriate level.
• They will develop a good stamina for reading and writing.
• They will use discussions in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas.
• They are competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate.
We believe that learning is a partnership between home and school. Here are some ways you can support your child’s English development at home:
We are committed to providing an English curriculum that is both challenging and enjoyable, helping every child to grow into a confident, skilled communicator.
The Literacy Tree - English Scheme
Through use of The Literary Tree Curriculum we have mapped the coverage of the entire English Programme of Study for KS1 and KS2 for Writing and Reading Comprehension, as well as meeting the needs of the statutory 2021 Early Years Framework. In many cases objectives are covered more than once and children have opportunities to apply these several times over the course of a year, as well as to consolidate prior knowledge from previous years. This approach supports children to think deeply and develop skills with depth. Where needed, planning sequences should be adapted, personalised and differentiated by the school to ensure all access arrangements can be made to support children with the requirements.
Author Visit - James Campbell
We were lucky enough to recently have a visit from a children's author. The children were enthralled with James Campbell! There were belly laughs galore as we listened to his stories. James Campbell wanted to pass on that he had a lovely experience at Knightlow and recognized what a lovely, welcoming school we are.
Soon after discovering he could not be a duck James Campbell decided to make children laugh for a living. He now travels around primary schools and literary festivals, telling funny stories and encouraging children to write their own stuff.
James has been on the BBC1 show, Child of Our Time, and CBBC's Blue Peter, where he taught children how to craft their own jokes. Kids love him so much that he has his own Comedy4Kids show called The Funny Thing About... where he talks about this hilarious new book.
Whole School Text - The Snowman
During the run up to Christmas, we embarked on a whole school writing challenge! Each class immersed themselves in Raymond Brigg's beautifully illustrated text 'The Snowman'. This beautiful, wordless story has inspired creativity and imagination across every class. Using the book as a writing stimulus, students have written their own stories, created descriptions, and even invented new adventures for the characters. It's been a wonderful way for our students to explore their writing skills while sharing the magic and wonder of The Snowman.
Check out some of the stunning work they produced.
Phonics Scheme
The phonics scheme that we use at Knightlow is Read Write Inc. It is a structured programme designed to ensure that all children learn to read with fluency and accuracy through engaging phonics sessions.
Teaching Sounds
The 44 sounds and corresponding letters are introduced and taught systematically.
Teaching Words
Children learn to blend sounds to read words. Then they use short ‘ditties’ to practise early reading and writing before being taught more letter-sound correspondences.
Developing Reading and Writing
Children read a series of levelled decodable texts, both fiction and nonfiction, and complete integrated writing activities including spelling, grammar, vocabulary and handwriting practice.
Levelled Progression
Ongoing assessment means that any children that are struggling are identified and supported to ensure that all children make the best progress.