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English
English is a core subject of the National Curriculum and is of paramount importance. Language is essential to learning, and the various skills taught in English lessons and practised and extended in other curriculum areas are essential tools for life. The teaching of English encompasses both the oral and written aspects of language.
Speaking and Listening
Throughout the Junior School girls are encouraged to listen effectively and to express themselves clearly in many situations, ranging from informal discussion to participation in dramatic productions. Through the practice of language skills for many purposes they become articulate and confident speakers.
Reading and Writing
Fluent reading is vital and progress is carefully monitored. Flexible reading strategies are taught; these are essential for pupils in meeting the demands of all areas of the curriculum. Reading for pleasure is highly valued and is actively promoted. Through their written work, pupils develop the skills needed to express ideas and to organise writing for a wide range of purposes. Accuracy in spelling, grammar and punctuation, as well as a high standard of handwriting and presentation, are all important aspects of work in English and the skills taught are carefully fostered in other lessons.
Assessment
Standardised tests are used at the start of the year to assess pupils' level of ability and to identify any areas of difficulty. Assessment is ongoing throughout the year and progress is carefully monitored. Formal assessment takes place in the Summer Term through year group tests in comprehension, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
The Year 3 Roald Dahl Galleries trip - Pupil Report
On the Friday 8th June Year 3 went to the Roald Dahl Galleries in Aylesbury. We went on the coach and it took about an hour and a half to get there. When we got there, we had a snack. Then we went in to the Romans Exhibition, there were activities and puzzles to do. We were in groups and in our groups, we went to the shop and the toilet. We had to bring £5 or less, there was stationery and allsorts!
Then we had a school provided lunch on the grass in a tent (canopy).
After lunch we played two games of 'SPLAT!'
In our two groups, we went in different rooms. Group No 1 went in to the gallery, there were puzzles and games. Group No 2 went in to a room with Mr Fox's tunnel, The Peach, and Matilda's library. Then we swapped rooms. Then it was time to go. We went on the coach back to school.
My favourite thing was the shadow room because it was really clever. We could leave our shadows behind on a special wall. I also liked Mr Fox's tunnel. There were interesting things like bones and fossils that I did not realise were in tunnels. I would recommend a visit to other people because I learnt a lot and there were fun activities.