Wordslayers (English)

Year 7 – Skellig Novel Study

Year 7 students have been engaged in their study of Skellig, 

exploring characterisation and thematic elements within the novel. As part of their learning, students created their own interpretations of key characters using play-doh, allowing them to physically represent and reflect on character traits and symbolism. This hands-on approach supported deeper engagement with the text and encouraged creative responses to literature.

Year 8 - Creative Writing: Coraline

Year 8 students concluded the term with imaginative diary entries written from Coraline’s perspective. These responses showcased strong engagement with voice and character. 

See below for the ways this student effectively captures Coraline’s emotional shift from curiosity to fear:

Year 9 - Creative Writing Unit: 

• ‘Writing for Your Life (Survival)’

   

Year 9 students have completed their unit on survival writing, producing a range of imaginative and technically sophisticated compositions. 

A standout work, Twister, demonstrates a strong command of descriptive language and tension:

“The house groaned, a roar like a freight train charging straight at our town… The sky turned a sickly green.”

This student employs vivid imagery, auditory symbolism, and figurative language to 

construct a highly immersive representation of a natural disaster. The use of sensory detail effectively situates the reader within the experience, while the structural shift at the conclusion introduces a reflective dimension, revealing the event as a dream.

Looking Ahead

Across all year groups, students have demonstrated continued growth in both analytical 

and creative writing. The next phase of learning will focus on refining structural control, strengthening analytical depth, and extending students’ capacity to write with precision and purpose.