Meet the department:
Mrs R Randles – Learning Manager
Miss K Trevor – Assistant Learning Manager
Mrs D Jones
Miss D Autiero
Mrs A Lawson
Miss E Smith
Mrs G Roberts
Mrs A Lloyd Williams
English
Key Stage 3
Year 7 is an exploration of excellent writing, both fiction and non-fiction. Pupils read work from a variety of acclaimed authors and use this to inspire their own creative writing. The key topics covered across the year are: Myths and Legends, Welsh Poets, Shakespeare’s Language and narrative and descriptive writing techniques.
As pupils progress into Year 8, they build upon the expertise and knowledge gained in Year 7. They will cover the skills needed for GCSE Literature and Language; from analysing Short Stories, evaluating techniques that create mood and atmosphere, to researching and writing a persuasive speech utilising persuasive device for effect. Key topics are Romeo & Juliet, Cynefin Poetry, Media, Suspenseful Stories and Exploration of novel writing.
Year 9 is a preparation year for GCSE; therefore, pupils explore the texts that they will study for English Literature at Key Stage 4, as well as practicing the reading and writing skills they will need for GCSE English Language. Our key texts are Of Mice and Men, An Inspector Calls and Heroes. Students will study a selection of poems and some of the themes of Macbeth to deepen their understanding of Shakespeare’s language in preparation for their GCSE NEAs. All Year 9 assessments are marked according to GCSE marking criteria, so that pupils are well prepared for the expectations of Key Stage 4.
Key Stage 4
The Key Stage 4 Literature GCSE Course concentrates on preparing students for their examination papers in English Literature. Three set texts will be studied for this qualification and as well as having the opportunity to discuss themes, characters and literary techniques, students will learn about the social and cultural contexts in which texts were written. Students will also be required to complete two Non-Examination Assessments, will learn how to write literary essays, and there will be considerable focus on past papers to facilitate a better understanding of the texts, to improve essay writing skills and of course, to best prepare the students for the examinations. The Language GCSE Course concentrates on preparing students for their examination papers in English Language. Students will have the opportunity to read and respond to a variety of texts as well as developing their understanding of different styles of writing. There will be two Speaking and Listening Non-Examination Assessments and there will be a focus on exam techniques and past papers to best prepare the students for the examinations.
