English at Ordsall Primary School

At Ordsall Primary School, English is a core subject and underpins all areas of learning. We use the National Curriculum as the framework for our teaching of English, ensuring that pupils develop the language knowledge and skills they need to succeed across the whole curriculum.

Through high-quality teaching of English, we aim to ensure that all pupils can communicate effectively, develop a love of reading, and write with confidence, accuracy and purpose.

Our Approach to English

The National Curriculum provides the framework for pupils’ development in Key Stages 1 and 2 and organises English into the following key areas:

• Spoken Language

• Reading

• Writing

• Handwriting

• Vocabulary, Grammar and Punctuation

These areas are taught explicitly and revisited regularly so that pupils build secure, transferable knowledge and skills over time.

In addition, phonics is taught systematically using Read, Write, Inc., ensuring that pupils develop secure early reading and spelling skills. This programme supports pupils to decode accurately, build fluency and develop confidence as readers.

Lesson Design in English

English lessons at Ordsall Primary School follow our whole-school lesson design, which provides a consistent structure for learning while allowing teachers to adapt teaching to meet pupils’ needs.

Lessons typically include:

• Big Picture – pupils are introduced to the purpose of the learning and how it fits within their wider English learning.

• Revisit – prior knowledge, vocabulary or skills are revisited to support new learning.

• Teach – new learning is taught explicitly through clear explanation and modelling.

• Learning Together – pupils practise new skills with guidance, discussion and support.

• Independent – pupils apply their learning independently, with appropriate challenge and scaffolding.

• Reflect – learning is reviewed, misconceptions are addressed and key ideas are reinforced.

This lesson design supports pupils to build knowledge and skills progressively in reading, writing and spoken language.

Spoken Language

We place a strong emphasis on spoken language as the foundation for learning. Pupils are taught to:

• speak clearly and confidently using Standard English

• articulate ideas and justify opinions with reasons

• ask questions to deepen understanding

• listen carefully and respond appropriately to others

• build and use ambitious vocabulary

• adapt their language for different audiences and purposes

Through discussion, explanation and structured talk, pupils develop their thinking and organise their ideas, supporting both learning across the curriculum and the development of effective writing.

Reading and Writing

Reading and writing are taught as essential, interlinked skills.

Reading
Pupils are taught to:

• read fluently and with understanding

• access a wide range of fiction, non-fiction and poetry

• develop comprehension skills

• read for pleasure and develop positive reading habits

Alongside phonics teaching in the early stages, pupils continue to develop fluency, comprehension and a love of reading as they progress through school.

Writing
Pupils are taught to:

• write clearly and at length for a range of purposes

• use accurate spelling, punctuation and grammar

• adapt their writing to different forms and audiences

Writing includes narratives, explanations, descriptions, comparisons, summaries and evaluations, allowing pupils to rehearse, consolidate and extend their understanding across subjects.

Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling

Grammar, punctuation and spelling are taught within English lessons and also through stand-alone sessions. This ensures that pupils develop a secure understanding of language conventions and are able to apply this knowledge accurately and confidently in their writing across the curriculum.

Vocabulary Development

Vocabulary development is central to our English curriculum and underpins learning across all subjects.

Pupils are supported to:

• acquire and use a wide and ambitious vocabulary

• make links between known and new words

• explore shades of meaning and word choice

• understand subject-specific and academic language

Explicit teaching of vocabulary supports pupils’ comprehension, spoken language and written expression, enabling them to communicate precisely and effectively.