Mosman Public School has a comprehensive English policy, strongly supported by systematic, explicit teaching/learning programs. Our aim is not only to develop competence in the use of the English language but also a positive attitude and an understanding of the importance that language plays in our lives. Our program follows the New South Wales Board of Studies syllabus and covers the strands of reading, writing, talking and listening. We follow a sequential program in all strands from Kindergarten to Year 6, providing all students with the opportunity to develop to their full potential.

A copy of the school’s policy is available on request and the syllabus can be obtained from the Board of Studies website on www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au.

Below are examples of some of the programs we operate in each strand of English:

Reading

• students taught to read using a systematic, explicit, sequential program which encompasses phonic skills, word recognition and whole of language,
• books specifically graded for the level of reading ability,
• individual student testing to monitor reading levels,
• reading groups, particularly for younger students, using parent helpers,
• home reader programs to support classroom learning,
• intensive programs to support students experiencing difficulty with reading,
• enrichment programs for those who are advanced readers,
• encouraging students to participate in the Premiers Reading Challenge,
• entering students from Years 3-6 in University Competitions.

Writing

• students taught to write in all text types following a sequential program K-6,
• exposure to a wide variety of literary styles,
• author visits to the school,
• entering students from Years 3-6 in University Competitions,
• handwriting taught in an explicit, sequential program, utilising the NSW Foundation Style.

Talking and Listening

• news talks in early years,
• oral presentations to class from K-6,
• participating in class meetings,
• leading and presenting items at assemblies,
• participating in school K-6 Public Speaking Competition,
• participating in national Multicultural Public Speaking Competition - Yrs 3-6,
• participating in school and inter-school debating competitions - Yrs 3-6.