English is a Core National Curriculum subject. English lessons in the school aim to develop pupils’ skills in reading, writing and speaking and listening.

English is delivered at Redwood Park during four, forty minute lessons a week. Pupils are given the opportunity to work as a whole class, individually and in groups.

	Reading Pupils read and experience a wide range of texts, both classic and modern, fiction and non-fiction. Original texts and simplified versions are used, according to the needs of individual pupils. Texts with symbol support are used to support weaker readers. Pupils are encouraged to develop and use a range of reading strategies.
	Writing Pupils are encouraged to take pride in their written work, and present work neatly. Pupils write for a range of purposes, including real world tasks. One English lesson a week is devoted to word or sentence level work, to help pupils to improve their writing. The school has introduced the THRASS phonics programme to help pupils improve their spelling.
	Speaking and Listening. All pupils are encouraged to answer questions and express opinions during lessons. Pupils also practise their speaking and listening skills in role plays and group work.
	Marking Pupils work is marked according to the school marking policy. Pupils complete assessment tasks during each unit of work, which are marked according to National Curriculum criteria.
	Computers Computers are used in English to support learning and to help pupils present and edit work. One English classroom has been fitted with an interactive white board.
	Homework Pupils are set one piece of homework a week. This is contained within a homework book, for the scheme of work which is currently being studied. Pupils receive a new homework book each half term.

In year 10 and 11, pupils can work towards Unit Award Scheme certificates. From September 2006, pupils will be entered for the AQA English Entry Level Certificate.

Literacy

Every pupil at Redwood takes part in a daily literacy session. This occurs first thing in the morning, with the pupils’ tutor. Literacy aims to improve pupils’ basic skills, in order for them to be able to access the rest of the school curriculum more effectively.

	Reading During literacy, pupils will be heard read three times a week by an adult. Pupils are set reading targets to improve their skills. These range from basic decoding skills to more complex analytical skills. Pupils’ progress is recorded on their reading record sheets. Pupils read texts which are appropriate for their ability. Pupils also take part in group guided reading sessions.
	Spelling All pupils are set a weekly list of spellings from the school spelling scheme. Pupils are tested on these spellings during literacy sessions. Their progress is recorded on their spelling record sheets. Pupils are encouraged to learn their spellings at home.
	Homework Pupils are encouraged to learn their weekly spelling list at home. Pupils can also take their reading books home to practise.