I attended the key stage 3 English training for consultants last week. It was wide-ranging in its scope, covering teaching and learning; planning; writing non-fiction; writing narrative (an inspiring module written by poet and teacher, Pie Corbett); speaking and listening with some interesting new ideas to develop current practice; and targeted support.
The training also included the spelling module and the supporting material provided by the spelling bank, referred to in your April 27 report. This resource represents just one aspect of teaching spelling (rules and conventions).Nowhere do these materials advocate a reductive use of spelling lists or traditional spelling tests which you imply in your report.
Your reporting of the National Literacy Strategy has been largely negative. Judging by your report on April 27, it looks as though we can expect double negativity with KS3 English and literacy.
Your readers, and the students they teach, deserve balanced reporting of this major initiative which is based on a wide body of research and which builds on and develops current good practice.
Jenny Lloyd
52 Belmont Road
Exeter
