English/Library

INTRODUCTION

English Language and Literature enables students to develop the skills they need to read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts, and write clearly. Our students will have the confidence to work collaboratively, challenge their own and others’ points of view and show empathy for those around them. By the end of their time with us, our students will have resilience, independence and a lifetime love of reading. In short, students at City Academy Norwich will achieve excellence and make the world a better place.

We have an excellent library which is regularly used by both students and staff. Each KS3 class has one lesson a week in the library. We also run reading challenges to actively encourage students to expand on their reading both in-school and at home. Students are able to take out books from the library, which is also open during break and lunch times.

KS3

English lessons build on the skills already established at KS2, and begin to develop the knowledge, skills and techniques students will require for GCSE.

Year 7

  • Greek myths and legends
  • Literary heroes and villains, with a focus on ‘Hamlet’
  • Challenges and opportunities, with a focus on ‘Wonder’.

Year 8

  • Conflict, with a focus on ‘Macbeth’
  • Presenting a viewpoint, with a focus on ‘Private Peaceful’
  • Exploring society, with a focus on ‘Trash’

Year 9

Year 9 begins to introduce GCSE content, which will be developed further during  KS4.  To introduce students to the core skills of analysis required for GCSE content, students will study ‘The Book Thief’, before moving onto the following GCSE content:

  • Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare
  • An Inspector Calls, Priestley
  • Power & Conflict Poetry

Within each unit, students also have the opportunity to be introduced to and develop English Language skills such as persuasive and creative writing.

Ks4

English Language

Students will respond to unseen texts. They will analyse the writer’s use of language and structure and will compare writers’ ideas and perspectives. They will write effectively using a range of techniques for purpose and effect.

English Literature

Students will study the following texts:

  • An Inspector Calls, J.B. Priestley
  • Poetry: Power and conflict
  • Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare
  • A Christmas Carol, Dickens

ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES

  • Fantastic World Book Day celebrations
  • Writing competitions throughout the year
  • Close links with UEA, with student ambassadors reading regularly with our pupils
  • FLY Festival of Literature at CAN
  • Visiting authors
  • Trips to the theatre

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES LINKED TO THIS SUBJECT

Competent written communication is needed in a diverse range of careers. The ability to communicate effectively and to understand other perspectives is useful in all jobs. More specific careers that require a further qualification in English are:

  • Journalism
  • Television work
  • Teaching
  • Publishing
  • Writing
  • Owning a business
  • Acting
  • Childcare
  • Publishing