Key Stage 2 Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar (SPaG)
Are your teachers unsure how to teach aspects of the new Grammar and Punctuation paper?
With ten years' teaching experience, I understand the pressures under which teachers work, as well as the problems involved in engaging pupils in what is often considered a very dry and boring subject.
As an English Language specialist, I am familiar with the idiosyncrasies of grammar and can impart this knowledge appropriately to teachers who may not have studied English at a higher level. Indeed, many English teachers were not taught grammar as a discrete subject and, although able to write and teach well, may not be aware of some of the trickier terminology necessary for the Key Stage 2 tests.
I will organise grammar workshops for key stage 2 staff, tailored to fit exactly with the requirements of your school. These can be discussed at a preliminary meeting with relevant members of staff - free of charge. Whether you need to focus on only a few aspects of grammar, or your staff members feel that they would benefit from a more comprehensive session, The Good Grammar Company has the perfect grammar workshop for you.
These sessions can be conducted at your school during twilight sessions or during staff inset days. I am also available to come to your school during term time and work with classes.
Alternatively, you might like to send relevant members of staff (for example, year 6 teachers or literacy co-ordinators) to one of the training sessions provided at an outside venue.
To find out more, call 07704 804026 and ask for Kathy or email me at [email protected]
Schools' communications with parents and outside agencies
Do you sometimes receive complaints from parents regarding mistakes on your written communication to them?
Sending grammatically incorrect letters or reports to parents is a sure way of undermining your credibility as a school. The public's expectations of all school staff is high and, as those responsible for the education of their children, you need to make sure your communications are above criticism. More often than we'd like to admit, these errors are made by teachers.
Of course, administration staff make errors too and, although these are often down to a lack of time for proofreading, there are aspects of grammar, punctuation and vocabulary that catch out even the most competent school secretaries.
As a teacher with ten years' experience, I understand the pressures under which school staff work; as an English language specialist, I can provide staff training sessions for members of staff at any level.
These writing workshops can be conducted at your school during twilight sessions or staff inset days. Alternatively, you might like to send relevant members of staff (for example, school receptionists or administration assistants) to one of the training sessions provided at an outside venue. Make sure your staff understand those important grammar concepts your pupils are learning!
To find out more, call 07704 804026 and ask for Kathy or email me at [email protected]