English study is mandatory in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.
Students learn about the English language through written, spoken and visual texts of increasing complexity as they progress through their schooling.
An understanding of the English language is central to how we communicate and essential for intellectual, social and emotional development.
The study of English should develop a love of literature and learning and be challenging and enjoyable. It develops skills to enable students to experiment with ideas and expression, to become active, independent and lifelong learners, to work with each other and to reflect on their learning.
Rationale
English/Literacy develops student's knowledge, skills expertise in the understanding of the English language and literature. It is based on an approach to language that describes the ways that people use language:
· To interact with others
· To create and interpret texts
· To develop understanding about the world and ourselves
L3K and L3S1:
Language, Learning and Literacy (L3) is a research-based program that is implemented in Kindergarten, Year One and Year Two classrooms during the literacy session, targeting students reading and writing. Students receive explicit instruction in small groups for both reading and writing, ensuring that their individual needs are being targeted. This program is supported by an Instructional Leader as part of the Early Action for Success (EAfS) program.
SMART Spelling:
Shortland Public School staff are trained as SMART Spelling practitioners. SMART Spelling incorporates both the systematic teaching of spelling each week and also personal words. Words are taught in patterns as much as possible, where teachers choose a range of words (from simple to complex) from a suggested list in the program. Students are then guided to choose from that list, to meet different needs. Teachers use their strong professional knowledge to give meaningful feedback to students about their spelling in writing, teaching at the point of need.
Premier's Reading Challenge:
Shortland Public School is an active participant in this yearly challenge due to the quality of the texts selected. It enables students to set goals in regard to the number of books read and they receive encouragement to participate in the reading of texts selected for their quality.
This program is co-ordinated by the school's librarian.
Learning and Support Teacher - LsT:
This teacher works closely with classroom teachers to support the development of individual or group activities targeted to identified student’s needs. The LsT also supports teachers through assessment in literacy and numeracy.
Assessment and Reporting:
Reporting procedures are according to the Department of Education and Training guidelines and are completed twice a year. Parents are able to request an interview to discuss their child's progress through the front office.