Principles and Practice

Literacy is fundamental to all areas of learning, as it gives access to the wider curriculum and increases opportunities for the individual in all aspects of life.

What are the aims of this course?

The Literacy and English course is designed to support learners in:

• continuing development and consolidation in a range of literacy skills
• increasing independence in applying these skills, and the ability to use them across a widening range of contexts in learning and life
• in reading, increasing the length and complexity of texts studied (for example the text’s ideas, structure and vocabulary)
• in talking and writing, increasing the length, complexity and accuracy of learner responses
• increasing awareness of how to apply language rules effectively

What is meant by literacy?

In defining literacy for the 21st century we must consider the changing forms of language which our children and young people will experience and use.  Accordingly, the definition takes account of factors such as the speed with which information is shared and the ways it is shared. Within Curriculum for Excellence, therefore, literacy is defined as:

the set of skills which allows an individual to engage fully in society and in learning, through the different forms of language, and the range of texts, which society values and finds useful.

 The literacy experiences and outcomes promote the development of skills in using language, particularly those that are used regularly by everyone in their everyday lives. These include the ability to apply knowledge about language. They reflect the need for young people to be able to communicate effectively both face-to-face and in writing through an increasing range of media. They recognise the importance of listening and talking and of effective collaborative working in the development of thinking and in learning.

What learning and teaching approaches will I experience?

You will be taught using a variety of different skills, from teacher-led to group work to individual research projects. In addition, you will have the opportunity to undertake some project based work which will be cross-curricular in its nature.

What assessments are available?

You will notice that we are able to offer presentation and recognition of attainment at a number of levels.  This allows us to offer the correct level of study for each learner.

Pupils will work towards the National 3, 4 and National 5 qualifications.

How will I be assessed?

Learners will be assessed using a combination of classwork, folios, and external examinations.  The exact combination of attainment evidence will vary depending on the course and level of study.

Teachers will keep pupils informed on a regular basis of the work they are required to complete.

 What are the homework requirements?

Homework will vary depending on the needs of the course being undertaken, however, pupils will be expected to read regularly as preparation for upcoming lessons, and also as research on topics being studied.

What might the course lead to in the future?

Studying English at a more advanced level.

Employment.

College or other training.