English National Curriculum

Y6: English

National Curriculum of England Hands-On Education Activity
En6/1 Spoken Language
The objectives for Spoken Language are common across Key Stages 1 and 2.
    En6/1a listen and respond appropriately to adults and their peers
      En6/1b ask relevant questions to extend their understanding and knowledge
        En6/1c use relevant strategies to build their vocabulary
          En6/1d articulate and justify answers, arguments and opinions
            En6/1e give well-structured descriptions, explanations and narratives for different purposes, including for expressing feelings
              En6/1f maintain attention and participate actively in collaborative conversations, staying on topic and initiating and responding to comments
                En6/1g use spoken language to develop understanding through speculating, hypothesising, imagining and exploring ideas
                  En6/1h speak audibly and fluently with an increasing command of Standard English
                    En6/1i participate in discussions, presentations, performances, role play/improvisations and debates
                      En6/1j gain, maintain and monitor the interest of the listener(s)
                        En6/1k consider and evaluate different viewpoints, attending to and building on the contributions of others
                          En6/1l select and use appropriate registers for effective communication
                            En6/2.1 Word Reading
                            • The objectives for Reading are common across Years 5 and 6.
                            En3/2.1a apply their growing knowledge of root words, prefixes and suffixes (etymology and morphology) as listed in Appendix 1, both to read aloud and to understand the meaning of new words they meet
                              En6/2.2 Comprehension
                                En6/2.2a develop positive attitudes to reading, and an understanding of what they read, by:
                                1. continuing to read and discuss an increasingly wide range of fiction, poetry, plays, non-fiction and reference books or textbooks
                                2. reading books that are structured in different ways and reading for a range of purposes
                                3. increasing their familiarity with a wide range of books, including myths, legends and traditional stories, modern fiction, fiction from our literary heritage, and books from other cultures and traditions
                                4. recommending books that they have read to their peers, giving reasons for their choices
                                5. identifying and discussing themes and conventions in and across a wide range of writing
                                6. making comparisons within and across books
                                7. learning a wider range of poetry by heart
                                8. preparing poems and plays to read aloud and to perform, showing understanding through intonation, tone and volume so that the meaning is clear to an audience
                                  En6/2.2b understand what they read by:
                                  1. checking that the book makes sense to them, discussing their understanding and exploring the meaning of words in context
                                  2. asking questions to improve their understanding of a text
                                  3. drawing inferences such as inferring characters' feelings, thoughts and motives from their actions, and justifying inferences with evidence
                                  4. predicting what might happen from details stated and implied
                                  5. identifying main ideas drawn from more than 1 paragraph and summarising these
                                  6. identifying how language, structure, and presentation contribute to meaning
                                    En6/2.2c discuss and evaluate how authors use language, including figurative language, considering the impact on the reader
                                      En6/2.2d distinguish between statements of fact and opinion
                                        En6/3.1 Spelling
                                        • The objectives for Writing are common across Years 5 and 6.
                                        En6/3.1a use further prefixes and suffixes and understand the guidance for adding them
                                          En6/3.1b spell some words with ‘silent’ letters
                                            En6/3.1c continue to distinguish between homophones and other words which are often confused
                                              En6/3.1d use knowledge of morphology and etymology in spelling and understand that the spelling of some words needs to be learnt specifically, as listed in Appendix 1
                                                En6/3.1e use dictionaries to check the spelling and meaning of words
                                                  En6/3.1f use the first 3 or 4 letters of a word to check spelling, meaning or both of these in a dictionary
                                                    En6/3.1f use a thesaurus
                                                      En6/3.2 Handwriting and Presentation
                                                      • Pupils should be taught to write legibly , fluently and with increasing speed by:
                                                      En6/3.2a choosing which shape of a letter to use when given choices and deciding whether or not to join specific letters
                                                        Pupils should be taught to write legibly , fluently and with increasing speed by:
                                                        En6/3.2b choosing the writing implement that is best suited for a task
                                                          En6/3.3 Composition
                                                            En6/3.3a Plan their writing by:
                                                            1. identifying the audience for and purpose of the writing, selecting the appropriate form and using other similar writing as models for their own
                                                            2. noting and developing initial ideas, drawing on reading and research where necessary
                                                            3. in writing narratives, considering how authors have developed characters and settings in what pupils have read, listened to or seen performed
                                                              En6/3.3b Draft and write by:
                                                              1. selecting appropriate grammar and vocabulary, understanding how such choices can change and enhance meaning
                                                              2. in narratives, describing settings, characters and atmosphere and integrating dialogue to convey character and advance the action
                                                              3. précising longer passages
                                                              4. using a wide range of devices to build cohesion within and across paragraphs
                                                              5. using further organisational and presentational devices to structure text and to guide the reader
                                                                En6/3.3c Evaluate and edit by:
                                                                1. assessing the effectiveness of their own and others’ writing
                                                                2. proposing changes to vocabulary, grammar and punctuation to enhance effects and clarify meaning
                                                                3. ensuring the consistent and correct use of tense throughout a piece of writing
                                                                4. ensuring correct subject and verb agreement when using singular and plural, distinguishing between the language of speech and writing and choosing the appropriate register
                                                                  En6/3.3d proofread for spelling and punctuation errors
                                                                    En6/3.3e perform their own compositions, using appropriate intonation, volume, and movement so that meaning is clear
                                                                      En6/3.4 Vocabulary, grammar & punctuation
                                                                        En6/3.4a develop their understanding of the concepts set out in Appendix 2 by:
                                                                        1. recognising vocabulary and structures that are appropriate for formal speech and writing, including subjunctive forms
                                                                        2. using passive verbs to affect the presentation of information in a sentence
                                                                        3. using the perfect form of verbs to mark relationships of time and cause
                                                                        4. using expanded noun phrases to convey complicated information concisely
                                                                        5. using modal verbs or adverbs to indicate degrees of possibility
                                                                        6. using relative clauses beginning with who, which, where, when, whose, that or with an implied (ie omitted) relative pronoun
                                                                        7. learning the grammar for years 5 and 6 in Appendix 2
                                                                          En6/3.4b indicate grammatical and other features by:
                                                                          1. using commas to clarify meaning or avoid ambiguity in writing
                                                                          2. using hyphens to avoid ambiguity
                                                                          3. using brackets, dashes or commas to indicate parenthesis
                                                                          4. using semicolons, colons or dashes to mark boundaries between independent clauses
                                                                          5. using a colon to introduce a list
                                                                          6. punctuating bullet points consistently
                                                                            En6/3.4c use and understand the grammatical terminology in Appendix 2 accurately and appropriately in discussing their writing and reading.
                                                                              Classical Poetry Topic

                                                                              How does Hands-On Education help fulfil my year six English curriculum requirements?

                                                                              Hands-On Education offers a comprehensive approach to fulfilling Year Six English curriculum requirements through engaging and interactive activities. The program covers key areas such as spoken language, reading, writing, and vocabulary development, aligning with the National Curriculum objectives. Through creative writing exercises, critical analysis of diverse texts, and grammar-focused lessons, students develop essential literacy skills. The curriculum emphasizes practical, hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to articulate their thoughts clearly, engage in discussions, and participate in debates. By integrating various subjects and using high-quality texts, Hands-On Education ensures that Year Six students receive a well-rounded English education that prepares them for the challenges of secondary school. The program also focuses on developing students' ability to write for different purposes, use advanced punctuation correctly, and understand complex grammatical structures, all while fostering a love for language and literature.

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                                                                              Coverage of the National Curriculum for Year One to Year Six

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                                                                              Our program offers comprehensive coverage of the National Curriculum for children in Year One to Year Six. We believe that learning should be engaging and enjoyable for children, and we strive to provide activities that are not only fun, but also effective in imparting knowledge.

                                                                              While our program does not cover all sections of the National Curriculum, such as swimming and computer science, we ensure that every lesson, worksheet, and video within our range is thoroughly fulfilled. You can find the curriculum guides for each year group on our website.

                                                                              Additionally, our team has fully mapped out each year group's curriculum, allowing you to use it as an independent reference to the National Curriculum of England. We understand the importance of providing parents and teachers with activities that work, and our program is designed to do just that.

                                                                              How does the Year 6 curriculum incorporate persuasive writing?

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                                                                              In Year 6, the English National Curriculum incorporates persuasive writing as a vital component of the writing curriculum, focusing on helping students articulate their opinions and arguments effectively. Students learn that persuasive writing aims to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint or action, requiring them to present logical reasoning and supporting evidence. The curriculum guides them in organizing their writing, typically beginning with an engaging introduction that captures the reader's attention and presents a clear thesis statement. This is followed by body paragraphs that provide reasons and evidence to support their viewpoint, while also anticipating and addressing counterarguments. Finally, students conclude their pieces by summarizing key points and including a call to action or a thought-provoking statement.

                                                                              To enhance their understanding of persuasive writing, students are taught various techniques and language styles, such as using rhetorical questions, emotive language, and varied sentence structures to strengthen their arguments. Practical activities play a significant role in this learning process; for instance, brainstorming sessions encourage group discussions on topics they feel passionate about, helping them develop strong arguments. Additionally, students are guided in researching facts that support their opinions, fostering critical thinking skills. Writing workshops provide structured lessons where they practice drafting persuasive essays or letters, often utilizing graphic organizers to plan their work. They may also analyze examples of persuasive texts to identify effective techniques.

                                                                              Moreover, students have opportunities to present their persuasive pieces orally, enhancing their speaking and listening skills while building confidence in public speaking. Assessment of persuasive writing typically occurs through independent tasks that allow teachers to evaluate students' understanding of the genre and their ability to apply the skills learned. This assessment may be part of broader evaluations like SATs at the end of Year 6. Overall, the Year 6 curriculum not only teaches students how to write persuasively but also equips them with essential communication skills applicable across various contexts.

                                                                              How is English covered in the English National Curriculum for year six students?

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                                                                              In Year 6, the English National Curriculum emphasizes three core areas: Reading, Writing, and Speaking and Listening. This stage is crucial as it prepares students for secondary education and enhances their literacy skills.

                                                                              Reading

                                                                              Students in Year 6 are expected to engage with a diverse range of texts, including:

                                                                              • Fiction: Both contemporary and classic literature from various cultures.
                                                                              • Poetry and Plays: Preparing and performing pieces to demonstrate understanding through expression.
                                                                              • Non-Fiction: Including biographies, journalism, and persuasive writing.

                                                                              Key skills developed include:

                                                                              • Inferring characters' feelings and justifying these inferences with textual evidence.
                                                                              • Discussing the use of figurative language by authors.
                                                                              • Distinguishing between fact and opinion.

                                                                              Writing

                                                                              Writing instruction focuses on enhancing students' abilities to express their ideas clearly and creatively. Key components include:

                                                                              • Mastery of spelling, including silent letters and challenging homophones.
                                                                              • Use of grammatical structures such as semi-colons, colons, dashes, and hyphens.
                                                                              • Development of narrative skills, including character description and dialogue writing.
                                                                              • Structuring texts effectively with organizational devices like headings and bullet points.

                                                                              Students are encouraged to assess and improve their writing, fostering confidence in various forms of writing—fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.

                                                                              Speaking and Listening

                                                                              The curriculum underscores the importance of spoken language in developing students' overall literacy. Year 6 students are taught to:

                                                                              • Speak clearly and confidently in both formal and informal contexts.
                                                                              • Engage in discussions that involve elaborating on ideas, justifying opinions, and participating in debates.
                                                                              • Use a range of vocabulary appropriately to enhance communication.

                                                                              Assessment

                                                                              At the end of Year 6, students take Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) that evaluate their proficiency in reading, grammar, punctuation, spelling, and mathematics. These assessments help gauge their readiness for secondary education.

                                                                              In summary, the Year 6 English curriculum aims to equip students with essential literacy skills that will serve them throughout their education. The focus on reading a variety of texts, improving writing techniques, and developing effective speaking skills prepares students for the challenges ahead.

                                                                              How does the Year 6 curriculum address creative writing?

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                                                                              In Year 6, the English National Curriculum places a strong emphasis on creative writing, encouraging students to express their imaginations and develop their narrative skills. The curriculum outlines specific objectives that guide teachers in fostering creativity through various writing forms, including stories, poetry, and personal narratives. Students are taught to structure their writing effectively, incorporating elements such as character development, setting descriptions, and plot progression.

                                                                              The curriculum encourages the use of figurative language and diverse sentence structures to enhance creativity and engage readers. Students learn to employ techniques such as dialogue and descriptive imagery to bring their narratives to life. Additionally, they are introduced to the writing process, which includes planning, drafting, revising, and editing their work. This structured approach helps students articulate their ideas coherently while allowing room for creativity.

                                                                              Practical activities play a vital role in developing creative writing skills. For instance, students may participate in group brainstorming sessions or collaborative writing exercises that stimulate their imagination. They might also engage in prompts that challenge them to write from different perspectives or alter the endings of well-known stories. Such activities not only foster creativity but also build confidence in their writing abilities.

                                                                              Furthermore, the curriculum encourages students to share their work with peers, promoting a supportive environment where they can receive constructive feedback. This sharing aspect is crucial for enhancing their understanding of audience and purpose in writing. Overall, the Year 6 curriculum aims to cultivate a love for creative expression while equipping students with essential writing skills that will serve them throughout their academic journey.

                                                                              What role does storytelling play in Year 6 creative writing lessons?

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                                                                              Storytelling plays a significant role in Year 6 creative writing lessons, serving as a foundational tool for enhancing students' writing skills and fostering their creativity. By engaging in storytelling, students develop a "sense of story," which is crucial for both reading and writing. This practice lays the groundwork for understanding narrative structure, character development, and plot progression, all of which are essential elements of effective creative writing.

                                                                              In the classroom, storytelling activities encourage students to articulate their thoughts and ideas more vividly. They learn to use descriptive language and figurative expressions, which enrich their narratives. For instance, when students listen to or participate in storytelling, they are exposed to various styles and techniques that can inspire their own writing. This exposure not only motivates them to write but also helps them refine their use of dialogue and sensory details, making their stories more engaging .

                                                                              Moreover, storytelling fosters a collaborative environment where students can share their unique experiences and perspectives. This sharing not only enhances their self-esteem but also builds a sense of community within the classroom. As they tell stories to one another, they receive feedback and encouragement, which further develops their confidence in writing.

                                                                              Incorporating storytelling into creative writing lessons also allows students to practice essential skills like brainstorming and revising. By verbally narrating their stories before committing them to paper, they can experiment with different ideas and structures, leading to more polished written work. Overall, storytelling serves as a dynamic vehicle that not only enhances students' narrative abilities but also deepens their understanding of language and expression in creative writing.

                                                                              What are the key components of the Year 6 English curriculum?

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                                                                              The Year 6 English curriculum encompasses several key components designed to enhance students' language proficiency and literacy skills. The curriculum is structured around three main strands: Language, Literature, and Literacy.

                                                                              Language

                                                                              This component focuses on the mechanics and structure of the English language. Students learn about various parts of speech, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs, which are essential for constructing grammatically correct sentences. They explore complex grammatical rules, punctuation, and syntax to improve their writing clarity. Vocabulary development is also emphasized, with students acquiring new words and understanding their meanings through exercises and reading materials. Additionally, they are introduced to figurative language techniques, such as metaphors and similes, which enhance their creative writing.

                                                                              Literature

                                                                              The literature strand aims to foster a love for reading and an appreciation for diverse literary works. Students engage with a variety of texts, including fiction, poetry, plays, and non-fiction from different cultures and time periods. This exposure helps them analyze themes, characters, and plot structures while developing critical thinking skills. Students learn to make connections between their experiences and those of characters in the texts. They also practice discussing how authors use specific language features to convey messages and evoke emotions.

                                                                              Literacy

                                                                              The literacy component integrates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. In reading, students are encouraged to explore a wide range of texts and engage in guided reading sessions to enhance comprehension. Writing activities include crafting narratives, persuasive texts, and reports, where they apply their knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. Students learn to structure their writing using organizational devices like headings and bullet points. Speaking and listening skills are developed through discussions and presentations that require them to articulate their ideas clearly while engaging with peers.

                                                                              Overall, the Year 6 English curriculum is designed to provide a balanced approach that combines these three components, preparing students for future academic success by enhancing their communication skills and fostering a deep appreciation for literature.

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