English at Key Stage 3 has two primary objectives: enhance learning from KS2 and prepare learning for KS4. With this in mind, schemes of works at Key Stage 3 are designed to complement fundamental skills in all key stages. In each year of KS3, pupils study a variety of fiction and non-fiction literature to enhance their reading, writing and spoken language aptitudes. The content of the curriculum has been developed around the 2014 NC Programme of Study for English (see KS3 Curriculum Overview).
Key Stage 4 or GCSE is a crucial stage in a pupil’s academic life. At Jamiatul Ummah, the English department teaches the AQA GCSE specification believing it to be both engaging and challenging. English is divided into English Language and English Literature.
Speaking and Listening tasks no longer count towards the GCSE grade (2012 onwards). However, as they are separately assessed and graded, pupils are required to complete a video-recorded task based on a presentation.
At Jamiatul Ummah, pupils are given opportunity to develop and enhance their drama and role play skills as part of their English lessons. Schemes of works are designed to give as many opportunities as possible for pupils to enrich their appreciation and application of drama and dramatic techniques. Where such possibilities arise, they are referenced in the relevant curriculum planning documents (see curriculum overviews).
Reading is at the heart of the English Department. At Jamiatul Ummah, we encourage all pupils to read widely and frequently. We have two initiatives which aims to promote reading:
Independent Learning Reading List
Using Skoolmis to monitor and manage the programme, all pupils are encouraged to read from a selected list for each year group. For more details, click here.
DEAR Time (drop-everything-and-read)
Every week, pupils in Y7-Y10 are required to read during their lesson time. The lesson varies on a weekly basis to minimise impact on subject learning. Reading is encouraged as a class rather than individual reading. For more details, please click here.