ENGLISH LANGUAGE
Aims The English Language course develops knowledge , understanding and skills associated with reading , writing , speaking and listening in English . It explores language use in different kinds of local and global contexts , drawing on the students ’ own interests , backgrounds and experiences as a way to encourage a spirit of independent engagement .
Skills The course nurtures capable , thoughtful writers who can communicate meaningfully and accurately in a range of contexts and for different audiences and purposes . Emphasis is placed on oral as well as written uses of language and students are purposefully taught to present , to listen and to work productively with others . Time is also spent developing intrapersonal skills such as confidence , creativity and ethical integrity .
Content Students explore a range of fiction and nonfiction texts ( including letters , speeches and various kinds of media article ). The components of transactional , persuasive and expressive writing are examined , as well as the ways in which language is reflective of culture , society and identity . Typical examination questions will ask students to analyse the way pieces of writing create atmosphere , how rhetorical devices can be used as persuasive tools and the different levels on which texts can be compared with each other . Writing tasks might include composing a letter to a newspaper editor to complain about gender bias in the media , or a story with the title ‘ It was a decision that changed my life ’.
Enrichment Students are taken beyond the requirements of the examination syllabus through theatre trips , our Middle School Literary Society and Verve , our creative writing magazine , as well as lots of in-class focus on independent reading , and exploration of the language of film , media and political texts that reflect and shape the way we ‘ see ’ the world . The English Language course represents an essential part of students ’ formative development and teaches a wide range of skills that are necessary for study in the Sixth Form and at university , and for the workplace .
30 THE MIDDLE SCHOOL | AT SEVENOAKS