Inspired by: Flotsam - Curriculum Objectives

Pupils in Year 4 are encouraged to deepen their understanding of the English language by exploring the rich tapestry of its etymology and morphology. They are taught to apply their growing knowledge of root words, prefixes, and suffixes to enhance their reading fluency and comprehension of new vocabulary. Additionally, they focus on recognising and reading exception words, which often have unusual spelling-to-sound correspondences. These foundational skills are vital for developing a robust vocabulary and an appreciation for the nuances of the English language.

Beyond word-level understanding, pupils are also taught to foster a positive attitude towards reading and to develop a comprehensive understanding of various texts. This is achieved through listening to and discussing an array of literary forms, including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. They are encouraged to use dictionaries to verify meanings, increase their familiarity with a broad spectrum of literature, and identify themes and conventions across different genres. The curriculum objectives also emphasise the importance of performance in reading, encouraging pupils to express understanding through intonation and physical expression when reading aloud. Critical thinking skills are honed through questioning, inferring, predicting, and summarising, while discussions and participation are integral to consolidating their learning and appreciation of literature.