English Writing and Spelling

To be a competent writer, learners need a range of skills which co-ordinate to allow for fluent, legible and accurate script. Writing is taught at Pyrgo through units for grammar, spelling and handwriting. Learning to write different text-types is linked to wider curriculum learning for context.   

To be a competent writer, learners need a range of skills which co-ordinate to allow for fluent, legible and accurate script. Writing is taught at Pyrgo through units for grammar, spelling and handwriting. Learning to write different text-types is linked to wider curriculum learning for context. 

The English Framework for Pyrgo identifies the progression and mapping of text-types for writing. 

Spoken Language is prioritised at Pyrgo and the programme of Chatta is used successfully from Reception to Year 6, children are expected to develop confident spoken language skills for a range of purposes. 

Writing skills  

Writing skills are taught in Reception by encouraging children to develop skills in communication, storytelling and motor skills. Writing for pleasure and purpose ensures a positive attitude in the early developmental stages. Gross and Fine Motor skills are developed alongside the spoken language and phonics skills which emerging writers need. 

Writing skills are covered daily during Literacy lessons and supported by cross-curricular writing tasks to deepen and practise skills. Pupils are able to develop accuracy and confidence as writers through daily guided writing sessions with teachers. Extended writing opportunities are given for pupils to demonstrate their skills and develop written style from Year 2, increasing the range and competence of different written styles from Year 3 to Year 6. 

Handwriting is taught from letter formation as part of the phonics programme to joined handwriting skills once formation is automatic. We then move on to teaching the Nelson handwriting programme. The expectation is that all pupils have fluent, neat and legible handwriting from Year 1. Pen Licences are awarded in Key Stage 2, once pupils can demonstrate consistent accuracy in joined fluent handwriting. 

Spelling skills

Spelling skills are taught from the earliest stages of Read Write Inc through to Year2. In Key Stage 2, spelling skills are taught through Prime Ed which is a phonetic spelling programme that focuses on spelling strategies using a variety of activities and games.