Topic title: Sci-Fi Presentation

Year group: 8
When taught: May to July

What are we learning?

• Creative writing, editing and drafting, group work.
• Reading a range of sci-fi novels (19^th Century and Modern) and exploring the creative writing process.
• Practicing the use of descriptive techniques, as well as exploring the conventions of genre.
• Specific focus on characterisation and exposition.
• Oracy skills embedded along with dedicated group work with specific roles.

Why is this important to know?

• We are developing student’s descriptive abilities and creative skills.
• We are developing student’s ability to think creatively and critically.
• We are building up student’s ability to work as part of a group.
• We are linking skills to careers by exploring how to write as part of a group and how to effectively complete the written process. Specific links to targeted employability skills.

Where does this link into our past and future learning?

• Conflict as a theme links clearly to Henry V, Journey’s End.
• We explore the techniques used in the text which, moving forward will be linked to gothic writing at the start of Year 9.
• We develop writing craft to support the move forward into gothic writing in Year 9.
• This topic deepens skills which are fundamental to success in English throughout secondary school.

How will we be assessed on this topic?

• Students will have to complete a literary periodical and present these at the Cadence Festival in mid-July.
• Throughout the topic assessment for learning will take place in lessons, as well as observational feedback from staff. Peer assessment will take an active role as the groups will proof-read and edit each other’s work in conjunction with the teacher.

What makes a strong piece of work in this topic? What are teachers hoping to see?

• Effective use of vocabulary and descriptive techniques.
• Embedding key skills that have been explored in the extracts we have studied.
• Working effectively as part of a group and discussing with peers.
• At the highest level, pupils will begin to develop their peers work and work collaboratively to create a crafted and effective literary artefact.
• Clear and constructive feedback to peers, which supports them in developing their writing.

What key words are there in this topic?

Periodical, symbolism, exposition, protagonist, careers, employability, communication, feedback, description, index, the uncanny valley, fear of the unknown, allusion, science-fiction, genre, form.

What can I try if I want to stretch and challenge myself on this topic?

• Read a range of sci-fi literature.
• Discuss the plot of the students’ stories at home and support in the development of their piece.
• Come to Cadence Festival to celebrate the students’ hard work.