English

English Program at Gable Hall School:

The English program at Gable Hall School emphasises communication as the cornerstone of empowerment, transformation, and connection to the broader world. Understanding the English language and its literature is seen as a means to achieve these goals.

Intent: The English curriculum is designed to ensure that all students:

Can communicate effectively through both speaking and writing.
Develop a love of reading to foster cultural, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual growth, enabling them to acquire knowledge and build on existing understanding.
Cultivate a love for words and acquire language skills essential for full participation in society.
Adopt the use of Standard English with correct grammar in appropriate contexts.

Implementation: To achieve these goals, teachers at Gable Hall School will:

Plan and deliver a scheme of work focusing on the progression of skills, knowledge, and understanding over time in reading, writing, and speaking.
Utilise a wide range of engagement strategies, including the integration of technologies, to motivate students and ensure effective learning.
Provide opportunities for independent and group work, allowing students to showcase their abilities in various contexts.
Develop strategies and support to ensure all students:
Develop the habit of reading widely and regularly for both pleasure and information.
Acquire a broad vocabulary.
Possess understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing, and spoken language.
Appreciate the rich and varied literary heritage.
Model effective writing to ensure clarity, accuracy, and coherence in a range of contexts, purposes, and audiences.
Plan regular opportunities for students to engage in discussions and make formal presentations with increasing sophistication.
Teach students to consciously control their speaking and writing, using Standard English.
Teach students the vocabulary needed to discuss reading, writing, and spoken language, along with elements of spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Model how to understand the relationships between words, nuances in meaning, and the development of understanding and ability to use figurative language.

Impact: The English program anticipates the following impact on students:

Make good progress from their starting points and achieve well academically.
Develop a lifelong love of reading for both pleasure and learning.
Communicate opinions and feelings confidently in various contexts.
Write fluently to effectively communicate ideas and emotions to others.

A Curriculum Aligned with Excellence

Our crafted schemes of work align seamlessly with the National Curriculum, catering to students across Key Stages 3 and 4. This journey encompasses poetry, drama, prose fiction, non-fiction, and topical issues, painting a holistic portrait of the literary landscape. For those who wish to explore further, Key Stage 5 opens pathways to AS and A2 levels in English Literature and English Language and Literature.

Nurturing Lifelong Learning Skills

At the heart of our approach lies the development of effective learning skills. Our students engage in regular testing, discussions, and questioning, fostering a deep understanding of key concepts. This journey isn't linear; where misconceptions arise, we retrace steps to ensure clarity. Study skills are seamlessly woven across subjects, harnessing the power of contextual connections.

A Literacy Odyssey

Literacy is the cornerstone of our English curriculum. The threads of literacy are interwoven within our schemes, underpinning success across subjects and life's myriad contexts. We nurture students to wield language artfully, presenting themselves eloquently and communicating adeptly.

English Beyond the Classroom

Our commitment doesn't halt within four walls. Enrichment activities abound, from the creative writing club to the book club. Theatre comes to life through immersive experiences, with local and national productions and in-house workshops. Our pursuit of inspiration knows no bounds as we continually innovate to enrich the learning journey of our students.

In essence, English isn't just about words on pages; it's a journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth. Our students emerge as confident communicators, adept thinkers, and adept writers, ready to navigate the complex landscape of the 21st century. With every chapter they explore, every word they pen, they step closer to realizing their potential as architects of the future.

Key Stage 3

Nurturing Literacy Proficiency at Key Stage 3: A Journey of Empowerment

At Key Stage 3, our unwavering commitment to a 'back to basics' philosophy serves as the bedrock of our endeavor to equip every pupil with the essential literacy skills that serve as the gateway to unlocking the world of reading and writing across the academic spectrum. We instill a culture of meticulous proofreading and self-assessment in English, fostering an intimate connection between pupils and their own written expressions.

Unveiling Literary Horizons

Our dedication extends beyond the rudiments; it encompasses the pursuit of literary horizons, both contemporary and timeless. We sculpt a learning environment where pupils immerse themselves in a tapestry of modern and classic literature. Amidst this literary tapestry, we equip them with the tools to dissect writers' intricate use of language, nurturing a nuanced understanding of narrative craftsmanship.

Empowering Analysis: A Foundation for Expression

A cornerstone of our approach is the cultivation of analytical prowess. Our pupils learn to read between the lines, extracting both substance and subtlety from fiction and non-fiction works. This ability serves as the bedrock for the writing endeavors they undertake at Key Stage 3. A thorough understanding of narrative structure and language nuances enriches their own expressions.

A Multifaceted Writing Odyssey

Our curriculum is a tapestry of diverse writing forms and purposes, ranging from the artistry of letter writing to the persuasive power of speeches. Pupils embark on a journey of varied writing forms, honing their prowess in descriptive prose, persuasive arguments, and beyond. This multifaceted approach nurtures a versatility that prepares them for the intricate demands of real-world communication.

In essence, Key Stage 3 is the crucible where literacy mastery takes root, blossoming into a powerful tool that empowers pupils across disciplines and beyond the classroom. As they engage with literature, wield language, and craft written expressions, they journey toward a horizon where words aren't just symbols on pages; they are the vessels of empowerment and transformation.

KS3 Curriculum Map

Key Stage 4

Elevating English Mastery at Key Stage 4: A Path of Challenge and Achievement

At Key Stage 4, our cohorts embark on a journey of English Language and Literature, navigating the intricacies of AQA English Language and Edexcel English Literature examinations for GCSE. Under the new GCSE grading system, they'll be evaluated on a scale from 9 to 1, reflecting their profound comprehension and articulation of the subject matter. In this voyage, the examinations bear the hallmark of being 'closed text,' entailing that pupils won't have access to their studied texts during the assessment. This unique challenge underscores the paramount importance of their revision prowess in the lead-up to the examination.

Empowering STEPS Students: A Holistic Approach

For our esteemed STEPS group, the journey encompasses a multidimensional approach. Alongside their GCSE English Language and Literature, they will embark on the AQA Functional English Level 1 qualification. This comprehensive specification is designed to fortify their communication prowess across reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The assessment is anchored in real-world contexts, ensuring that students can proficiently wield their skills in practical situations across life, learning, and work.

In essence, Key Stage 4 is a juncture of rigorous challenges and transformative growth. With each step, students ascend the ladder of proficiency, embracing the nuances of language, literature, and practical communication. As they prepare to wield their knowledge and skills in the examinations, they're not merely revising; they're refining their ability to articulate their understanding, fostering a connection between their minds and the subject matter that transcends the confines of the classroom.

KS4 Curriculum Map

Key Stage 5

The English Department currently delivers 2 courses at A Level.
The OCR syllabus is offered for English Literature and is designed to build on what students already know from GCSE. It will encourage the development of critical awareness and understanding of individual works of literature. Students will also explore the relationships between texts, developing an understanding of the significance of cultural and contextual influences on readers and writers. Ultimately, the course allows students to develop the valuable transferable skills of sustained research and composition.

We also offer the OCR syllabus for English Language and Literature. Students will study a wide range of interesting and engaging literary and non-fiction texts. Students will explore narrative techniques in a prose study, produce original non-fiction creative writing, and build knowledge of non-fiction genres. Explore and make connections between texts using the analytical concepts and methods they learn during the course.

Language and Literature A Level Curriculum Map

Literature A Level Curriculum Map

SMSC in English

SMSC, BV and Protected Characteristic development in English at Gable Hall School - Click Here

Spiritual Development in English:

The English department enriches students' spiritual development by exploring a diverse range of literature that stimulates discussion and debate. For instance, the study of the classic novel 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' encourages contemplation on the dichotomy of good and evil and the impact of one's conscience. This literary exploration allows students to ponder the consequences of moral choices, applying these reflections to their own lives.
Creative writing and the study of poetry offer students a platform to reflect on their personal beliefs, fostering a unique relationship with language. Writing serves as a means of self-expression, providing students with a reflective and creative outlet to experiment and explore.

Moral Development in English:

In Year 7, the curriculum includes 'A Christmas Carol,' a literary work that encourages moral thinking by highlighting values such as goodwill, humility, and kindness. Students analyse characters and events to understand the repercussions of negative actions.
While studying fiction, students are exposed to diverse perspectives, fostering empathy for characters. For example, the study of Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' prompts discussions on topics like the dangers of power and ambition.
Class readers at Year 7 and 8 tackle moral questions related to race, homelessness, alcoholism, and sexism, prompting students to produce their own writing. Non-fiction writing tasks, such as creating newspaper articles, leaflets, reports, and reviews, help students apply fictional insights to real-life scenarios.

Social Development in English:

English lessons encourage cooperation and teamwork by facilitating group work, listening to presentations, and engaging in discussions. Real-world issues encourage students to contemplate the world beyond school, allowing them to voice opinions on topics that may impact their future, such as the proposal for a new supermarket in the local area. Students take on roles and argue various points of view.
Opportunities are provided for students to speak in different contexts, addressing a range of real-life issues and applying their learning to future careers and life after school. Peer assessment plays a vital role, promoting focused feedback between students, who support and encourage each other while reflecting and providing advice based on their individual methods for success.
Students are empowered to be independent, self-reliant, and responsible for their own learning. Debating skills are nurtured, encouraging students to present logical arguments with respect, rationality, and thoughtfulness.

Cultural Development in English:

Students learn about respecting diversity through the study of poetry from various cultures, many of which illuminate the challenges faced by those in impoverished or less fortunate circumstances. This exploration allows students to appreciate different cultures and empathize with their experiences.
The study of Victorian literature offers students insights into British history and culture, fostering an appreciation for the nation's heritage.
Speaking and listening activities create opportunities for students to share their own experiences and gain an appreciation for their peers' perspectives and life experiences.
Theatre trips, visits from published authors, and the viewing of plays in performance on DVDs provide all students with access to cultural activities, enriching their cultural experiences and broadening their horizons.

In summary, the English curriculum at Gable Hall School is designed to holistically nurture students' SMSC development, encouraging spiritual exploration, ethical considerations, social engagement, and cultural appreciation, thereby preparing them for both literary and life adventures.