English

English unites the important skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening as well as opening the door to the world of the written word. Good oral skills enhance a child's understanding of language and the way language can be used to communicate. These are encouraged and developed at every stage of the literacy process.

It is our aim to provide every opportunity for children to become literate. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and the National Literacy Framework for KS1 and KS2. The school uses synthetic phonics and a range of other approaches to teach reading and writing. Every classroom provides a stimulating environment in which literacy is encouraged. Our classrooms provide a broad range of texts: these are enhanced by a well-stocked library, the Internet, CD Roms and multimedia resources.

Our philosophy is that Lynams children should:

• Read and write with confidence, fluency and understanding
• Have understanding of the sound and spelling system
• Have fluent and legible cursive handwriting
• Have an interest in words and their meanings and an ever increasing vocabulary
• Know and be able to write in a range of genres including poetry and fiction.
• Understand, use and be able to write a range of non-fiction texts
• Plan, draft, revise and edit their own writing as appropriate to the age group
• Be interested in all types of books, read with enjoyment
• Through reading and writing, develop their powers of imagination and critical awareness

Oral and Dramatic Work

There are many opportunities during the year for children at all stages to perform, both in class and to an audience. These include assemblies, drama activities and productions. In Year 3 children learn a poem each week to help their voice projection, expression and self-confidence. This routine culminates in a competition for the Daisy Pratt Poetry Prize.

On many occasions throughout the year the gym is converted into a theatre. A typical year might see Reception performing a Nativity play at the end of the Christmas term, and a concert in the Summer. Year 1 participate in the carol service at Christmas and perform a play in the Spring term. Years 2 and 3 also take part in a carol service, and both perform their year group play in the Spring and Summer Term respectively.

Year 3 put on their production in the Lynam Hall at Bardwell Road. This enables the children to begin to feel part of that larger scene a few months ahead of joining it.