Literacy is still the focus for our teaching of English.

Reading

During part of the Literacy Hour the children read together from a variety of fiction, non-fiction and poetry texts.  They share and develop understanding and enjoyment of reading.  Teachers work with groups to teach basic skills; they also teach children to read thoughtfully for deeper understanding, to develop questioning and critical skills, and to use their reading to support work in other curriculum areas.

Writing

During the Literacy Hour, the children are taught grammar, the features of different types of fiction and non-fiction texts, and spelling strategies.  These teaching sessions are followed up with opportunities for he children to write in ways which practise and develop the skills taught.  Handwriting is also taught and practised, to develop skill and pride in presentation.

Speaking and Listening

Children are taught to listen thoughtfully as an essential skill during Literacy Hour, as in other curriculum areas.  Working in groups enables children to develop confidence in speaking clearly.  In group and class discussion, during the Literacy Hour and in other curriculum areas, particularly PSHE, children are taught to express thoughts, feelings and opinions, and to listen and respond to the views of others thoughtfully and respectfully.

Reading Outside the Literacy Hour

Children are encouraged to read widely for pleasure, as well as to reinforce and extend their reading skills. Opportunities are given in class for quiet reading, individually or with a friend.  Children have regular paired reading sessions, where older and younger children enjoy books together.  Teachers read regularly to their class to develop understanding and enjoyment of literature. 

The lower school (years 3 and 4) undertake extra guided reading sessions to develop skills and understanding.

The school library provides a comprehensive selection of fiction, poetry, picture and non-fiction books for reading at school and home.  At school children are also able to read books from themed collections on loan from the School Library Service.   Each classroom has a reading corner, and a selection of books for children to borrow.

Writing Outside the Literacy Hour

In Science, History, Geography and other curriculum areas, children have opportunities to use and extend the skills learned in the Literacy Hour, in meaningful and appropriate contexts.