While pupils are accessing the RWI phonics programme, they will be taught writing during Phonics lessons. Additionally pupils are given independent opportunities to apply the skills they have learned. From Y2, pupils access English lessons where they continue to be taught skills from the National Curriculum. Independent writing is assessed, using our academy assessment grids, each half term as a minimum.
The writing framework has been designed to ensure pupils have the opportunity to write for a range of audiences and purposes as well as using a range of stimulus to drive and inspire writing. Writing lessons provide opportunities for pupils to write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences.
Spelling is taught through the ‘Active Spelling’ approach. Active Spelling uses the principles of mnemonics, images and verbal reasoning to aid both the retention of spellings and to develop a breadth of vocabulary. The sessions are led by each class teacher four times a week, for 15 minutes. In each lesson children recall previously learnt spellings to aid retention of spelling patterns and rules. Children are then taught different strategies to help them to learn new spellings that they become increasingly able to apply independently.
To fully understand the spelling patterns, Active Spelling uses orthography (the way a word looks), phonology (the way a word sounds), morphology (the meaning of the word), etymology (the origin of the word, which country and language it originates from), and graphology (how it feels to write). They then check and apply.
Grammar and punctuation is predominantly taught through the ‘Active English’ approach from Year 2 onwards. Active English is an approach to teaching grammar which uses images as visual clues for children to remember various grammatical terminology and use. It is a daily programme of 15 minutes which runs at the beginning of the English lesson.
There are clear sections of Recall and Learn, Read and Respond and Create and Reflect. As they move into Year 5/Year 6 the Active English program develops so that the grammar and punctuation are applied to their writing focus. This supports the children’s ability to apply their skills considering the audience, purpose, and intended effect.
