Howells School

Our aim is to ensure that all pupils achieve a high standard of literacy that   enables them to flourish in all curriculum areas. Our Leavers by the age of 11 will have developed into sophisticated, accurate users of the English language who speak effectively - fluent, clear and cogent - and listeners - attentive and understanding.

We broadly follow the National Literacy Framework for KS1 to KS2. The school uses a range of approaches to teach reading and writing but predominantly synthetic phonics. English  at Howell's is taught to 5 to 8 year olds by class teachers and 9 to 11 year olds by a subject specialist. Our classrooms provide a stimulating environment and a broad range of texts, supported by multimedia resources, to encourage literacy. Our well-stocked library is very popular.

Children are given guided reading of suitable texts, fiction and non- fiction in small, assessed groups. Progression is a vital part of the learning process and teachers employ a wide range of strategies to accommodate each year group's challenges. By the end of Middles year, aged 7, the children complete grammar and spelling work as well as writing stories and completing comprehension tasks, all of which are differentiated according to ability.

As the children progress effective writing - for a range of purpose and audience - is practised, as is imaginative writing. The use of appropriate spelling, punctuation and grammar is encouraged throughout.

Oral and Dramatic Work

English embraces, in addition to reading and writing, the important skills of speaking and listening. Good oral skills enhance a child's understanding of language and its use in communication. These are encouraged and developed at every stage of the literacy process.

There are, furthermore, many opportunities throughout the year for children of all ages to perform - both in class and to an audience. These include assemblies, drama activities and productions. In addition all children participate in the English Speaking Board scheme.