English

The Internet is just one more stage in the long history of finding ways to use language in order to:

Communicate information and ideas.
Persuade, argue and analyse.
Inspire.

Language is the tool by which humans express their creativity, their deepest thoughts and innermost concerns. In the English Department, we explore the range of language: in poetry, literature, drama, non-fiction and media. English is not just a subject, it is more a way of life. There are countless opportunities for everyone to develop their own communication skills - the most vital skill we need in work or leisure. For example, confidence in the spoken word is a key to success in many fields, and there are debates as well as scope for preparing for oral assessments in GCSE, enough to ensure that everyone develops this confidence.

The curriculum itself has great breadth and variety. Here the students meet the finest writers of the English language - from Shakespeare to Shaw, from Austin to Eliot, from Chaucer to the poets of the twentieth century. Students develop their own skills at writing poems, stories, speeches and letters and at creating newspapers, with the aid of desktop publishing.

The love of reading, once developed, stays with you for life. English unlocks the doors to literature and encourages readers to pursue their personal interests and develop their appreciation and response. Reading lists recommend books from various cultures, the Writers' Circle and the Magazine give students the chance to extend their writing skills or to respond to the magic of others' writing.

We're concerned primarily with the active study of English literature but girls are assessed on their ability to talk and write about the subject. We encourage girls to make a personal response: through wide reading and constructive discussion they develop original thinking and critical habits of mind. In developing original creative work, a sensitivity to language, analytical skills and public speaking, and IT enhancement, girls are challenged in an exciting and relevant way.

The pupils in Key Stage 3 are encouraged to develop various literacy skills which will help them to prepare for their SATS and eventually for their GCSEs. Furthermore in Key Stage 3 importance is put on linguistic skills, creative writing, reading and communication skills.

Pupils are assessed through their classroom performance and by various exams.

In Key Stage 4 (14-16 year olds)pupils start their GCSE programmes. Pupils are taught the National Curriculum as laid down by the selected Examination Board. All work, such as assignments and class work in Key Stage 4 are recorded and assessed. These marks will contribute towards the final exam result.

English at Madani Girls School has much to offer. The excellent results prove what can be achieved by developing a love of literature and by the acquisition of varied and effective skills in speaking, listening and writing. Whatever the students' particular interests, and however they wish to communicate, they will find just the right outlet through English at Madani Girls School.