So what do we do? What is our formula? We use a model that offers a high level of scaffolding of the writing experience.
As part of our approach we provide children with words to use in their writing. We refer to these sheets of words to use as word mats, and children have these available at the point of composition. Giving pupils words or phrases to start sentences with really helps them to get started. Different sentence starters are provided according to the style of writing that is being taught.
The writing tasks set relate to the texts that pupils study. Units of learning, with defined written outcomes, are created around high quality texts that are read and analysed in class. Most units last for two to three weeks and children engage in a range of preparatory activities based upon the book they are studying. We also ensure that pupils have frequent opportunities to write more independently, with limited support.
We feel it is important to support children to develop neat, attractive and consistent handwriting. The development of an efficient, legible style assists pupils in all forms of written recording. We want to help children with layout, presentation and the way they organise themselves on paper. If success is achieved here they have pride in their written work, tend to be better at spelling and are more motivated to write. Getting the right habits established early on is key to future success. We appreciate that some children find this more difficult than others and will offer additional support or alternative ways of recording when necessary.
Standards in handwriting are very high at our school. These subjects may or may not be taught separately within the curriculum but they are not taught in isolation from one another. For example, when children are involved in a Science activity, they may also be gaining experience helpful for their skills in mathematics and English. This is called a cross-curricular approach.
Standards of spelling have really improved at our school over the past few years. Pupils in Key Stage 1 and KeyStage 2 are given spellings to learn at home each week. They are also shown exactly how to learn them. Guidance about how to support your child with spelling, including some of the most common spelling patterns and the words that are most frequently spelt incorrectly (good ones to learn, as many are common words) is available by clicking the link below. Ideas for supporting children with spelling at home (the download takes a moment). The spelling programme for children:
11 Nov 2019
Every Thursday morning our Year 6 class are joining Miss Ashby at the Axe Valley Academy for cello lessons.
05 Apr 2019
05 Apr 2019
A World War One soldier visited for Year 5 and 6 to show them what it was like to live during this time.
