High quality texts are at the heart of our English curriculum. Teachers model the writing and planning process through writing sessions in English, where ideas are collected and developed. Children work in groups, pairs or individually to write narrative and non-narrative texts based on a range of appropriate genres. Grammar and punctuation are contextually taught in English lessons as well as recapped during daily grammar meetings. Spelling rules are also taught during these grammar meetings. Spellings rules are taught from the National Curriculum and delivered using CUSP.
At Ranelagh, we believe that handwriting is a progressive skill that builds up over time. It is important that children have the opportunity to refine their handwriting skills so that it reduces cognitive load when completing writing tasks. We aim for our children to leave in Year 6 with the ability to write using their own style of fast, fluent, legible and sustainable handwriting (Penpals).
In order to teach handwriting, we follow the Penpals for Handwriting scheme. In KS1, handwriting takes place three times a week and in KS2, handwriting is delivered daily. We acknowledge the importance of building on prior learning and providing children with the opportunity to revisit previously learnt skills.