English

This term, students will dive into persuasive writing, beginning with an assessment task. They will receive targeted feedback to help them set specific learning goals to improve their writing skills.

Students will learn how to effectively plan and structure a persuasive text. They will explore the use of persuasive language features through the acronym AFOREST:Alliteration/Anecdotes, Facts, Opinions, Rhetorical Questions, Statistics, and Triples. They will be encouraged to incorporate these techniques to engage the reader and confidently express their opinions.

To strengthen their writing, students will also develop their ability to write cohesive paragraphs using the TEEL model:Topic sentence, Explanation, Evidence, and Link. This structure supports the development of clear, well-organised arguments.

In spelling, students will continue working on individual word lists as part of their homework. The formal spelling program follows a whole-school scope and sequence and involves explicit teaching across the following areas:

1. Phonological knowledge – understanding the sounds in words.
2. Morphological knowledge – understanding the meaningful parts of words (morphemes), such as base words, prefixes, and suffixes.
3. Etymological knowledge – understanding the origins of words.
4. Orthographic knowledge – understanding conventional spelling rules and patterns, including plausible and accurate grapheme combinations.

Students will focus on developing secretarial skills such as handwriting, proofreading, and editing, using a checklist to review their work. They will revisit punctuation and grammar and continue working on using complex sentences to enhance their writing.

During reading sessions, students will learn to read critically to identify the writer’s opinion and evaluate it based on supporting evidence and reasoning. They will practise identifying main ideas and supporting details, while analysing how key vocabulary, persuasive language features, and modality influence the reader’s perspective.

In speaking and listening, students will develop their ability to express their opinions through structured debates. These activities will support their reading comprehension and help them form strong arguments when writing persuasive texts.