In Year 8 pupils hone their skills, allowing them to explore more challenging literature with increasing confidence. We expect to see pupils develop critical approaches to texts and recognise that there are often alternative interpretations. Central to their learning is an understanding of the power and influence of written and spoken communication.
We read novels, plays, poems and non-fictional texts such as diaries and newspapers; these texts are provided on a loan basis by the department. Pupils need to bring to their English lessons a personal reading book, as we usually begin with 5-10 minutes of silent reading. This can, of course, be a library book.
Explore key themes such as war, justice, power, grief, love and religion
Continue to develop close textual analysis, commenting on the writer’s choice of language
Begin to explore alternative interpretations of the texts
Develop an informed personal response to the texts
Explore a selection of persuasive pieces
Develop an understanding of the key elements of persuasive writing
Produce a piece of persuasive writing
Explore historical and cultural context
Become familiar with Shakespearean language
Develop an understanding of Shakespeare’s use of language, structure and stagecraft
Develop an understanding of how Morpurgo uses linguistic devices for impact and use them in their own writing.
Continue to improve their punctuation, spelling and grammar
Continue to expand their vocabulary
Explore the language and images used in children’s advertisements to consider if they reinforce gender stereotypes
Create a gender neutral advertising campaign
Persuasive writing:
Write a letter to a friend persuading them to go on holiday with you.
Private Peaceful suggested title:
How does Morpurgo use language and structure to create a sense of panic in the gas attack?
Explorations in creative writing:
Write a description of a winter’s day, as suggested by the picture.
Romeo and Juliet:
How does Shakespeare use language to present Lord Capulet in Act 3, scene 5?
Explorations in creative reading and writing :
Adjusted paper which is age appropriate:
One short comprehension question
One question on language
One question on structure
A piece of descriptive writing based on an image.
Writer’s viewpoints and perspectives:
Create a gender neutral advertising campaign
If you have any queries about this curriculum, please contact: Mrs Sarah Scanlon, Head of English, on ss@farlingtonschool.com