English
English is one of the first subjects to come under the microscope. Whether in pre-tests, 11+ or 13+ Common Entrance Exams, all children need to feel confident with their reading and writing skills and be able to transfer this knowledge across the subject spectrum. Grammatical errors stick out a mile so let’s iron them out ahead of time and make sure they stick for life.
11+
Schools will vary in their requirements and it is always worth checking with them directly on the detail. As a guide, the English papers at 11 plus will be divided into three sections: a passage to read and answer questions on to assess comprehension, a grammar section to test punctuation and parts of speech, and then a composition section to show off their creative skills. Senior Schools may choose to examine with just two of these papers.
13+
For Common Entrance, our tutors break down the reading and writing elements into manageable exercises. Children develop skills at their own pace and, as confidence grows, they start to experiment effectively with all kinds of written language in their creative expression. Exercises in grammar and syntax ensure that each individual has a strong foundation for continued learning. Through reading extracts from an assortment of poetry, prose and plays, the aim is to encourage a genuine interest in a diverse range of literature and language. Our tutors place deliberate emphasis on enjoyment in each session; work is purposeful and a pleasure.
GCSE
English provides the foundation for success in all IGCSE subjects and almost all students attending independent schools will study for two qualifications: (1) English Literature and (2) English Language. Prep School Tutors have extensive experience of teaching towards both qualifications for numerous exam-board specifications. Armed with this knowledge and an understanding of their student’s learning style, Prep School Tutors are able to tailor their support sessions, helping to cover the content of the courses but also to help practise the examined skills as set out in the relevant assessment objectives.
In general terms, English Literature requires students to study a selection of prose, poetry and drama texts and demonstrate an understanding of a ‘writer’s craft’. A Prep School Tutor will ensure that their student has a robust understanding of their set texts, revising content where necessary in an interactive and engaging manner. Similarly, students will develop their ability to write sophisticated and logical commentaries on the effects of language, critically analysing the construction of meaning within their set texts with flair and individuality. Writing tasks are often performed in ‘real-time’ whereby students are provided with instant feedback from their tutor on the content and style of their writing using collaborative online tools. The skills honed through these collaborative writing exercises can then be confidently applied to exam-style, timed writing exercises and supervised coursework tasks.