English

English at Barlby encompasses all the skills students need to succeed in their studies and to be culturally aware global citizens. During Years 7 and 8 students study a range of literature, both hailing from literary heritage and contemporary authors. Language and structure is a key focus, with students creating their own fiction and non-fiction texts, developing an appreciation for mature and sophisticated style. Students are encouraged to read widely at every opportunity and enjoy taking part in trips and events to showcase their achievements.

English at KS3 is broad and engaging, with a variety of rich and inspirational texts to discover. Students study Shakespeare, modern plays, seminal literature, poetry, 19th century texts and non-fiction. The focus of study is not only on the analysis of language, structure and form but also challenges students to think critically and draw comparisons between issues in the texts and the wider world. Writing is taught and assessed regularly, with an emphasis on shaping texts to purpose, audience and context.

At KS4, students study for AQA GCSE English Language and English Literature. The course is 100% examination. The specification is designed to inspire students, while providing appropriate challenge as well as support to access the material where needed. Students develop the skills they need to read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts and write clearly.

The language exam comprises two equally-balanced papers, each assessing reading and writing in an integrated way:

Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading and writing

Paper 2: Writers’ viewpoints and perspectives

The literature exam also comprises two papers, but focus on different genres of texts, ranging from modern plays to poems from our literary heritage:

Paper 1: Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

Paper 2: J B Priestley’s An Inspector Calls, and the study of collected poetry and unseen poetry.

Keep in touch
Subject Lead for English is Mrs Sergeant who can be contacted by email at l.sergeant@bhs.hlt.academy