Literacy and English
Strong literacy skills are vital for success in all areas of education and in life beyond school. The Scottish Government estimates around one quarter of the adult population struggles with reading and writing. At Westmuir we work to develop pupils’ literacy skills to improve their chances in life.
Teaching and learning in the English department covers all areas of communication: reading, writing, talking and listening.
Reading
We use a wide variety of texts to engage pupils, such as short stories, novels, poetry, drama, films, non-fiction and online media. Additionally, pupils are encouraged to choose books that interest them for personal reading to develop their reading skills and promote an interest in literature.
Writing
Pupils participate in a variety of activities aimed at improving their spelling, grammar, vocabulary and expression. Pupils are also exposed to a wide variety of writing styles to help them produce a folio of their own work, including functional, informative, creative and personal pieces.
Talking and listening
Verbal communication skills are developed through a combination of group discussion and individual talk activities. Through these activities pupils learn to express themselves appropriately, sharing facts and opinions, and questioning those of their fellow pupils.
Parents and carers who want to support children’s progress in English should encourage reading at home. Reading in any form is helpful whether it is novels, non-fiction books, newspapers, magazines, comics or websites. Reading at home significantly improves children’s literacy and life chances.