English
Welcome to the English Homepage
"Books are a uniquely portable magic.” - Stephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
Intent: In the English Department we will instil a love of reading, writing and creative thinking in our students, allowing them to form articulate ideas and express themselves knowledgeably. We encourage enquiring minds, and believe that a curriculum should challenge its audience as well as inform them on social, emotional and cultural issues. Through a range of inspiring texts that reflect the diversity of identities, cultures and humanity’s experiences on a global scale, students will develop empathy for people and places beyond the limits of their own realities.
Subject Principles:
- Diverse Literary Exploration: Our curriculum offers a rich tapestry of texts from various cultures, time periods, and perspectives, providing students with both windows into other experiences and mirrors reflecting their own. This diversity in text selection nurtures empathy, cultural awareness, and a broader understanding of the human experience.
- Critical Thinking and Analysis: Students are consistently challenged to engage deeply with texts, developing their ability to analyze, interpret, and form articulate responses. We emphasize the importance of evidence-based argumentation and contextual understanding across all units.
- Creative Expression and Writing Development: Regular opportunities for creative writing and personal expression are integrated throughout the curriculum. Students develop their writing skills across various genres and purposes, building both technical proficiency and creative flair.
- Language as a Tool for Change: Our curriculum emphasizes the power of language in shaping thoughts, influencing others, and driving social change. Students learn to critically evaluate rhetoric and develop their own persuasive communication skills.
- Thematic Connections and Real-World Relevance: Key themes such as identity, power, conflict, and transformation are explored across different texts and years, encouraging students to make connections between literature and their own lives, as well as broader societal issues.
- Inclusive and Ambitious Learning: We provide a curriculum that is ambitious for all students, with lessons designed to have high ceiling, allowing every student to be challenged and to progress. Support and extension materials are available to ensure all students can access and excel in the curriculum.
- Oracy and Collaborative Learning: Regular opportunities for discussion, debate, and presentation are embedded throughout the curriculum, developing students' confidence in expressing ideas verbally and collaboratively constructing meaning.
Mr Elliot Weeks
Head of Department
eweeks@brimsham.com
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