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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 

 

Reading

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.

 

  • Phonics and Early Reading: In the early years, we the Read Write Inc phonics program to support children in decoding words and developing reading fluency.
  • Reading for Pleasure: We encourage reading for enjoyment by providing a wide range of books that reflect our diverse world and cater to all interests.
  • Comprehension Skills: As children progress, we focus on developing their comprehension skills, enabling them to understand, discuss, and reflect on what they have read.

 

Writing 

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.

  • They will have mastered a secure understanding of grammar and a knowledge of linguistic conventions for writing, reading and spoken language and mastered using punctuation to accurately communicate and avoid ambiguity.
  • The children’s handwriting will be fluent and cursive.
  • In addition, Knightlow children will be able to demonstrate an understanding and appreciation for our rich and varied British literary heritage and will have explored that of other cultures and traditions.

 

 

Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar (SPAG)

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.

  • Spelling: We teach spelling rules, common exception words, and encourage children to use spelling patterns to improve their writing.
  • Punctuation: We focus on the correct use of punctuation marks (full stops, commas, question marks, etc.) to make writing clear and readable.
  • Grammar: We ensure children understand sentence structure, parts of speech (nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.), and how to use grammar rules to enhance their writing.

 

 

Oracy

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.

  • Class Discussions: Through structured class discussions and debates, children learn to listen respectfully, share their opinions, and engage in thoughtful conversations.
  • Presenting Ideas: We encourage children to present their ideas confidently, whether it's through individual presentations or group work.
  • Drama and Role-play: Drama activities and role-play help children build their vocabulary, practice speaking in different contexts, and develop empathy.
  • Vocabulary: They will have developed a wide and rich vocabulary that includes language for the every-day; academic language for learning, ambitious language and technical curriculum language.

 

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.

 

 

Supporting English Learning at Home

 

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:

  • Read together regularly to improve fluency and comprehension.
  • Encourage writing through fun activities such as journaling, letter writing, or storytelling.
  • Practice spelling and grammar with word games, puzzles, and quizzes.
  • Engage in conversation to build vocabulary and oracy skills.

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.

Writing At Knightlow

 

 

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.

KS1 Parent Phonics Reading Workshop November 2024

KS1 Phonics Live Workshop for Parents

Phonics Sounds Video

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Story Green Words

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Speed Sounds From The Story Book

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Partner Practice

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Partner Read

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Hold A Sentence

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  • Knightlow C.of E. Primary School,
  • Hill Crescent, Stretton-on-Dunsmore,
  • Rugby, United Kingdom, CV23 9NF
  • Tel: 02476 543751
  • Email: admin3590@welearn365.com
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