At SMC, we want our pupils to develop their passion for writing and for them to develop the ability to express both their imagination and understanding through their written work. We aim for our pupils to become capable writers, with an ability to write for different purposes and audiences and for them to have the ability to draft, edit and improve their own work with increasing independence as they move through the school.

Our writing curriculum is underpinned by Pie Corbett’s Talk for Writing programme. A key feature of this is that children internalise the language structures needed to write through ‘talking the text’, as well as close reading. The approach moves from dependence towards independence, as detailed below. This approach is taught alongside spelling, punctuation and grammar work (SPaG) with clear links made where applicable.

All teachers throughout school use the structure below as a basis for their teaching of writing: needs:

Imitation

This stage involves children unpicking text features of the genre they are studying. They hear the text and ‘talk the text’, using actions, to help them internalise the language structures and vocabulary required. The children analyse the features that have helped to make the text effective and construct a ‘writer’s toolkit’ as a class to support their own writing. The link between reading and writing is strongly emphasised and children are encouraged to ‘magpie’ ideas and vocabulary from texts they read. They can then utilise these in their own writing at a later stage.

Innovation

Children move on to ‘innovating’ (changing) a text. This may include the use of tools such as story maps, mind mapping, ‘box it up’ plans and shared writing. The teacher models how to develop their writing by highlighting key vocabulary and phrases and referring back to the key features needed within that genre during shared or guided writing. Children are encouraged to edit and improve their work through ‘polishing’. They may also make suggestions for improvements to others’ work.

Invention

This stage allows children to apply what they have learned through imitation and innovation by producing their own independent work. Teachers use the invention stage as an opportunity to assess children’s independent writing and their application of taught skills and features.

Handwriting

We set high expectations for all of our children to take pride in their work and move towards using a fluent, cursive handwriting style.

Spelling

Spelling is taught daily in school. Children are strongly encouraged to practise spellings at home each week and lists are sent home and put onto Google Classroom. Pupils who are identified as needing additional support with spelling receive interventions that are tailored to address their gaps.

Speaking and listening

Pupils are provided with opportunities in all areas of the curriculum to develop skills in spoken language. Children are supported in developing their ability to express their thoughts and ideas across the curriculum through speaking and listening activities, including through drama and role play which further develops their acquisition of vocabulary and the understanding of linguistic conventions.

Mrs Holmes ~ Writing Lead