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English
A dynamic department which aims to inspire a life-long love of language and literature whilst equipping pupils with the communication skills they need to thrive, at Westbourne and beyond.
At Key Stage 3, pupils have three English lessons a week, studying a wide range of texts and subject matter. Texts are frequently updated so that pupils experience material that is fresh, dynamic and relevant to the world around them. The KS3 curriculum also exposes students to many of the skills required for success at GCSE. They explore and produce different types of writing and in all tasks, students are encouraged to develop a broader vocabulary which should equip them for the demands of both the KS4 syllabus and life beyond.
Typically, each year, pupils will be exposed to a variety of literature. They will study a class novel, analyse a range of poetry (including some from different cultures), read and analyse pre-1914 prose and study a Shakespeare play. They will also read and analyse a variety of non-fiction texts and learn how to write for a variety of audiences and purposes.
At Key Stage 4 pupils follow a hybrid syllabus of AQA for English Language and Pearson Edexcel International GCSE for English Literature. The department has a wealth of experience in both teaching and examining the AQA GCSE Language course and historically, has secured excellent results. The GCSE Language course culminates in two examinations based on previously unseen texts. Pupils are required to analyse language and structure, evaluate texts, compare viewpoints and write both creatively and persuasively.
The majority of pupils at Key Stage 4 will also study the Pearson Edexcel International Literature GCSE. This course offers the same rigour as the AQA syllabus but it also encourages pupils to engage with a wider range of texts from around the world alongside texts from the English literary heritage. In addition, this syllabus allows students to opt for a coursework module which counts for 40% of the final grade. This option enables us to ensure more personalised learning with coursework tasks tailored to the needs of the individual pupil.
Literature Exam Texts:
- Anthology Poetry: Pearson Edexcel International GCSE English Anthology.
- Modern Prose: Texts include Of Mice and Men, To Kill a Mockingbird and Things Fall Apart.
- Literature Coursework Texts:
- Literary Heritage Texts: Texts include Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth and Great Expectations.
- Modern Drama: Plays include A View from the Bridge, An Inspector Calls, Kindertransport and Death and the King’s Horseman.
Whilst the English Department at Westbourne prides itself on its excellent results and its ability to ensure every pupil achieves the best grades they can, we also aim to instil in them a life-long love of reading, writing and performance. With this in mind, the department offers pupils a wealth of extra-curricular activities in which they can become involved. They may opt to be a pupil librarian, join a book club or enter one of the many creative writing competitions which we run. Pupils in Yr 9-11 can become a member of the Westbourne Word team, our pupil led magazine which is published each half term. We take advantage of Sheffield’s excellent theatres and frequently run trips to see plays at a variety of venues. Pupils are often given the opportunity to become involved in creative writing or poetry workshops, some of which are run by our own Higher Achieveing Pupil's (HAP's) Scholars.
Outside of the classroom, pupils are encouraged to read widely for pleasure. During their Middle School years, pupils complete several independent and group reading challenges which require all pupils to read a range of texts at home. All pupils complete a reading log to track their reading progress and every Wednesday, Senior School tutor time is given over to The Midweek Read
