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Posted on June 6th 2024
Key Stage 3 Literacy Lessons: The Story So Far
Each term, as part of the English Department we run one library lesson per term with classes in Year 7, 8 and 9. Patricia Smith, our Resources Manager/Librarian, reports on some of the activities we've been doing in our library lessons this term.
Year 9 - Post 16 and careers
I worked with Year 9 on careers for their library lessons, supporting post-16 choices using Unifrog - an online platform that supports students in finding and applying for the best opportunities for them after secondary school, bringing together every step of the career process.
The Year 9 students who had regular library lessons know how to write their CVs and personal statements before exploring their Post 16 options. From students exploring their career interests to recording their skills to finding post-16 courses, apprenticeships and university courses to submitting applications, Unifrog can support them.
The platform influenced many Year 9 subject choices for GCSE in Year 10. Students selected options based on what would best suit their career and A Level options. Most Year 9 students have achieved or are on their way to achieving 100% for their completed activities.
Year 7 and 8 - Literacy
I used poetry, dynamic songs, story writing, and author visits to explore the topics Years 7 and 8 are learning about:
- Sci-fi versus Fantasy for our author visit
- Story writing to explore genres.
- Rap versus Poetry to explore rhythm and rhyme schemes.
We were privileged to be invited to an online meet and greet with author Malorie Blackman (pictured), author of books including Boys Don't Cry and many more. Thirty students from Year 8 eagerly anticipated the live stream with Ms Blackman, with a tangible level of excitement. At the end of the online visit, students felt uplifted and inspired by the Blackman's stories, insight, and resilience.
Each term, we use a different theme to explore topics. Recently, we used drama as a tool to examine the impact of a dystopian society, Victorian times and the Gothic era. We used drama as a tool to present a dystopian world.
Students use drama to present a dystopian world during their library lesson.
Year 7 and 8 students make the most of their library lessons by actively participating in tasks and discussions. It is great to hear students expressing their thoughts and opinions and sharing ideas. I am impressed by our students' enthusiasm and knowledge of subject areas, their understanding of information, and the improvements in their confident communication skills since the start of the academic year.
Patricia Smith, Resources Manager/Librarian
Mr Exley's Year 8 English lesson
Mr O'Brian's Year 8 English lesson
