English & Literacy at Phoenix
The English & Literacy curriculum at Phoenix places emphasis on confidence, self expression and functional communication whether students are verbal or non-verbal.
Class teachers work in conjunction with our Literacy Coordinator to deliver student-centred, creative teaching approaches in line with the National Curriculum modes of reading, writing, and speaking and listening.
National Curriculum Focus
Each term takes one of the above as a focus to ensure students have equal opportunities to excel and develop in each mode. Our 2012-2013 program is as follows:
Autumn 2012 Speaking and Listening
Spring 2013 Reading
Summer 2013 Writing
Phoenix School Reading Scheme
In addition to their regular English and Literacy lessons, all students complete 15 minutes of guided reading per day as part of our Phoenix School Reading Scheme (PSRS). Student’s progression is assessed fortnightly and at the end of the academic year. Books used are part of synthetic phonics programs that are tailored to their ability, age and interests. Furthermore, students who require additional literacy instruction receive one-to-one intervention lessons with our English specialist once a week.
Sensory Theatre
English & Literacy is supplemented with our unique Sensory Theatre program. Each lesson corresponds with the themes students study in English lessons. This program allows students to experience a sensory story and encourages functional communication while enhancing their comprehension skills.
Cross-curricular links.
Finally, creativity is nurtured within English & Literacy through links with Expressive Arts subjects such as Drama, Art and special events including the Expressive Arts Festival, World Book Day and World Poetry Day. Our Sensory Theatre also includes links to Numeracy and Science curriculums in a tangible and functional context.