English
Aims
The English Programmes of Study are delivered by a dedicated team of experienced subject specialists with a proven track record in preparing pupils of all abilities for a range of public examinations including GCSE English Language and Literature.
Staff
Mrs C Gwynne - B.A.(Hons)., P.G.C.E /Head of Department /Subject Teacher
Mrs CL Patton - B.A.(Hons)., P.G.C.E /Assistant Senco /Subject Teacher
Mrs C Johnston – B.A(Hons)., P.G.C.E, M.Ed /Subject Teacher
Mrs E MacCombe – M.A.Ed., B.Ed. / Subject
Teacher
Miss Lynsey Jones - BA(Hons), PGCE
In English, we seek to foster an appreciation of a varied range of literature; to encourage pupils to become independent readers; to develop a range of writing skills for different purposes and to promote creativity. Pupils are offered a variety of educational opportunities both within and beyond the classroom including drama workshops, theatre visits, media simulations, competition work, public speaking and debating.
English classes are set. This arrangement allows for the provision of smaller teaching groups for those pupils who require additional support. In addition, setting allows us to promote high achievers at any time throughout the academic year and to ensure that all pupils are working at a pace suitable to their needs.
All in the English Department work tirelessly to ensure that each pupil reaches their full potential. Exam results at both Key Stage 3 and Key stage 4 are excellent and well in excess of the Northern Ireland average for schools of this type.
Our most recent inspection report praised the work of the department commenting on the good quality of teaching. Lessons were described as imaginative and pupils were engaged in stimulating and challenging activities.
KS4/KS5 Options
Please watch the videos below to find out what GCSE Journalism and GCE English Literature entails.
Course
Content
Assessment
GCSE English Language
Studied in conjunction with English Literature (2 GCSEs) Allows pupils to demonstrate their ability to use English in real life contexts using a skills based approach.
40% Controlled Assessment
60% External Exam
GCSE English Literature
Studied in conjunction with English Language. (2 GCSEs) Requires candidates to explore texts from a personal perspective and offers an experience of:
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Literature Today
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Literature Globally
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The Literary Heritage
20% Controlled Assessment
80% External Exam
OCN NI Level 1 and Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication
Speaking and Listening
Internally set, internally marked, and internally verified by the Centre. Externally moderated by OCN NI.
Reading and Writing
Externally set and externally marked end test. One combined reading and writing paper.
CCEA GCE English Literature
AS1: The Study of Poetry 1900 - Present and Drama
External written examination
60% of AS
24% of A Level
AS2: The Study of Prose Pre 1900
External written examination
40% of AS
16% of A Level
A2 1: Shakespearean Genres
External written examination
20% of A Level
A2 2: The Study of Poetry Pre 1900 and Unseen Poetry
External written examination
20% of A Level
A2 3: Internal Assessment
Internal assessment
Students complete a 2500-word essay
20% of A Level
Skills developed through the study of English
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Effective Communication
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Team Work
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Time Management
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Reading Skills
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Writing Skills
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Understanding and Evaluation
Careers linked with English
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The study of English is essential for all careers