Literacy and English

Language is at the centre of pupils' learning. It is through language that they gain much of their knowledge and many of their skills. High priority is, therefore, given to developing pupils' ability to use English language effectively.

Pupils are taught to listen carefully and effectively, talk confidently and fluently, read with understanding and enthusiasm, and write with expression and accuracy.  In this way, they will gain a sound knowledge of how language works and will become familiar with the many ways in which it is used.

It is also important that pupils learn to present written work in a way that can be easily understood, paying attention to punctuation, grammar, handwriting and spelling.

Active and collaborative approaches such as Literacy Circles are used to encourage competence in the key areas of literacy. Initially children learn to read and write using their phonics skills and sight vocabulary. At this stage a reading book from structured schemes is used to consolidate skills. During Primary 3 novels and literacy circle roles are introduced.  Literacy Circles encourage the children to take responsibility for their own learning by reinforcing literacy skills in a collaborative group. In some cases novels may support the cross-curricular work of the class, for example,  Flat Stanley and the Great Egyptian Grave Robbery may complement a social studies topic focussing on the Egyptians.