Diary Dates

Writing

Our aim is that all children:

  • to write with increasing independence and understanding of the writing process
  • develop a wide range of writing skills
  • write creatively, for pleasure and academically
  • are excited and motivated to write and express themselves
  • write for a range of audiences and purposes – using different forms and voices
  • plan, draft, discuss and reflect on their writing
  • use correct grammar and punctuation
  • read and internalise a diverse bank of stories / texts (ethnicity, gender, age and interests) which support them in developing their imagination, vocabulary and writing skills

At West Hill, children are taught using the Literacy Tree approach, which provides book-based planning sequences, Writing Roots, which embed complete curriculum coverage and engage children to write with clear audience and purpose The Teach Through a Text pedagogy is the backbone of each sequence.

All writing starts with immersion in quality texts and an exciting hook to make sure that children are engaged and motivated to write creatively.  The approach moves from dependence towards independence to develop the ability in children to write creatively and powerfully.

Teachers model the writing process in daily shared writing sessions. The lessons are delivered using a variety of methods including shared writing (modelled writing and contributions from the children), guided writing (writing in small groups with support) and skills lessons (focus on spelling, grammar, and punctuation). There are regular opportunities for children’s writing and ideas to be shared, displayed, published, and celebrated.

To ensure the progression of skills and knowledge, the genres of writing are specifically taught to each year group and the purpose and audience of the writing is explicit. The text types include: narrative, poetry, recount, information, explanation, instruction and persuasion.

At the end of each ‘unit’ – once all the teaching, modelling and internalisation has taken place – there is an opportunity for children to produce a final, independent piece of work.

The teaching of grammar and punctuation is fully embedded in the writing process. Grammar skills are appropriate to the text type that the children are focussing on.

Pupils learn how to write with confidence, fluency, and accuracy. Effective writers employ a wide range of skills to make them successful. Children learn to use their skills of handwriting and spelling (transcription) idea generation and planning (composition) and grammar and punctuation (mechanics)

In the Early Years we follow the Read Write Inc scheme. From the earliest stages of writing, children are taught how to count sounds on their fingers and how to use sound buttons to support their early writing skills. We encourage children to ‘have a go’ at writing as soon as possible and to use their phonic skills. We provide a wide variety of opportunities for child-initiated and role-play writing.

As soon as children can form most letters correctly and have a good pencil grip, we teach a fluent and legible handwriting style that empowers children to write with confidence and creativity in line with our ‘Handwriting Policy’.

Please click on the link below for our Handwriting Scheme:

https://www.letterjoin.co.uk/