Literacy Key Principles

At Harrogate High School, we are committed to fostering literacy skills that empower students to succeed in all areas of life. Our literacy strategy focuses on key principles that enhance communication, comprehension, and writing skills, preparing students for academic and real-world success.

1. Oracy

Oracy, or the ability to speak fluently and effectively, is a key focus in every lesson. By encouraging structured talk, we help students build their vocabulary, improve their thinking, and enhance their written communication.

  • Key Strategies:
    • Think, Pair, Share
    • Paired Reading
    • Share and Scribe
    • Opinion Continuum

Students are encouraged to answer questions in full sentences, engage in discussions, and develop metacognitive skills with teacher support.

2. Reading

Form Time Reading

  • Goals: Develop vocabulary, fluency, and expose students to high-quality literature.
  • Focus Areas: Cultural capital and understanding others’ experiences.
  • Practice: Form tutors read to students three times a week, 10 minutes each session.

DEAR (Drop Everything and Read)
Every week, students participate in a DEAR session, replacing a regular lesson on a rotating schedule. This time is designed to:

  • Combat the "Matthew Effect" (students who struggle with reading fall further behind).
  • Build a love for reading and broaden cultural experiences.
  • Strengthen the school community through shared reading experiences.

 

3. Extended Writing

Writing is a complex skill, and we aim to support students by breaking down the writing process into manageable steps. We focus on the three main components of writing: composition, transcription, and executive function.

  • Support Strategies:
    • Pre-writing activities
    • Classroom talk to rehearse ideas
    • Planning strategies and sentence starters (e.g., PEEL)
    • Modelling and collaborative writing
    • Ongoing review and editing of writing

 

4. Vocabulary

A strong vocabulary is crucial for academic success. Students need a vocabulary of at least 50,000 words to thrive in school and beyond. Our vocabulary instruction is designed to build a deep understanding of words and how they work.

  • Vocabulary Instruction:
    • Explicit Teaching of subject-specific and academic vocabulary.
    • SEEC Model:
      • Select key words in a text
      • Explain meanings and usage
      • Explore word history, roots, synonyms/antonyms
      • Consolidate through practice and application

By focusing on vocabulary, we help close gaps between disadvantaged students and their peers, enabling all students to thrive academically.

Click here for more information on our Literacy Key Principles