The Intent of our Writing Curriculum
At Ovingham First School, we believe all children should feel confident to express their ideas through the written and spoken word. We aim to plan an engaging curriculum where all children are engaged in writing activities. By focusing on the key areas from the National Curriculum (speaking and listening; writing; spelling, punctuation and grammar), we believe other aspects of learning will be unlocked for children and allow them to achieve their absolute best. Above all else, we want children to enjoy taking part in written and spoken activities and give them the confidence to complete tasks independently.
How we Implement our Curriculum
At Ovingham First School, English is taught daily from Reception to Year 4. Within these lessons children explore high quality texts in detail, taking part in class discussions to deepen their understanding. Children will be exposed to a range of genres and authors in order to have a broad experience of texts.
Throughout their school career, children have many opportunities to express their ideas in class discussions across the curriculum. Children are also given the opportunity to speak in front of an audience during school performances and church services throughout the year.
Pupils then write their own pieces using the key features which have been discussed. From an early age, children are encouraged to proofread their work carefully to check for errors. By the time children get to Key Stage 2, they will plan, draft and edit independently, enabling them to fully take part in the writing process. We believe it is essential that they consolidate these skills so children are given the opportunity to write extended pieces in subjects across the curriculum. This may involve writing a set of instructions for a science experiment or writing a diary entry as Florence Nightingale.
As children move through the school they are exposed to higher level punctuation and grammar in line with the expectations in the National Curriculum (see progression of skills document). Within planning, teachers ensure there are some discrete grammar lessons where the children learn how different elements of grammar and punctuation are used in writing. Throughout the year, children are given the opportunity to apply and use these features independently.
The Impact of our Curriculum
Through our planning process and passion for the subject, we want our children to feel confident in the written and spoken word.
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Children can write for a range of audiences and purposes, thinking carefully about the features they need to include. They can apply this knowledge across the curriculum.
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Children enjoy taking part in the writing process and take pride in the work they produce. Work is shared regularly in whole class assemblies and celebrated as a school community.
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As children move through their school career, they can write for sustained periods of time. Initially, children can respond to feedback from teachers and then become more independent in proof reading and editing themselves.
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Through targeted interventions within classes, children are given the opportunity to rehearse and refine key skills in writing. They are encouraged to apply this knowledge in all writing tasks and are given appropriate resources and prompts to achieve their targets.
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Children are able to take part in class discussions across the curriculum, explaining their ideas clearly. Throughout their time in school, children are encouraged to perform in front of others and are proud of their achievements.
