ENGLISH

Welcome to the Somervale School English Department

At Somervale School, our English curriculum is designed to foster literacy through reading, writing, and oracy across Key Stage 3 (KS3) and beyond.

Year 7 begins with a unit on the roots of English, examining the language's evolution from the 5th to the 17th century. Students read texts from various periods, comparing Old, Middle, and Modern English, and research the origins of their names to present to the class. Term 2 focuses on ancient myths and legends, where students re-write tales like Perseus and Medusa, exploring traits of heroes and villains. In Term 3, we study The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis, which highlights the impact of language in a contemporary Afghan context. Term 4 is dedicated to nature poetry, where students learn poetic techniques and write their own verses. Term 5 shifts to non-fiction about the planet, encouraging students to express their opinions persuasively. Finally, Term 6 culminates with A Midsummer Night’s Dream, connecting back to the roots of English.

Year 8 builds on Year 7’s foundation. We start with Animal Farm by George Orwell, analyzing dystopian techniques and the author's intentions. In Term 2, we explore non-fiction crime writing, allowing students to craft their own texts using genre conventions. Term 3 delves into WWI poetry, where students identify poetic techniques and historical context. In Term 4, we explore gothic literature, culminating in students writing their own stories. Term 5 features Coram Boy, a modern adaptation, where students learn dramatic techniques and perform excerpts. We conclude with dystopian fiction, revisiting themes from earlier in the year.

In Year 9, we address relevant contemporary issues, starting with Boys Don’t Cry by Malorie Blackman, which tackles peer pressure and relationships. Term 2 focuses on rhetoric, developing students' persuasive writing and speech skills. Term 3 introduces Small Island by Andrea Levy, exploring the challenges of the Windrush generation. In Term 4, students engage with Identity Poetry, enhancing their understanding of self-expression through poetic techniques. Term 5 features Romeo and Juliet, where students analyze themes of duty and relationships. Finally, Term 6 focuses on non-fiction creative writing, encouraging exploration of British culture and identity.

In Year 10, we prepare students for the AQA GCSE English Language and Literature exams. The year begins with poetry from the AQA Power and Conflict Anthology, and students develop creative writing skills for their Language Paper 1 exam. In Term 2, we read A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, enhancing analytical skills and quotation memorization. Term 3 revisits poetry from the anthology and prepares students for the reading section of the Language Paper. Term 4 features An Inspector Calls by JB Priestley, focusing on quotations and contextual details. In Term 5, students prepare for the spoken language assessment, delivering presentations. Term 6 emphasises revision and unseen poetry to prepare for exams.

In Year 11, we intensify GCSE preparation, focusing on the reading section of the Language Paper 2. Students read a variety of texts to prepare for their exams, with extensive revision in Term 2 following mock assessments. Term 3 introduces Macbeth as the final literature set text, leading into further revision and final mock exams.

Overall, our curriculum offers a diverse range of topics and genres, encouraging students to develop their literacy and oracy skills, fostering curiosity, and promoting creativity. If you have any questions about our English curriculum, please feel free to contact me at jvale@somervaleschool.com.