English Department

The primary aim of the department’s work is to make English enjoyable as well as challenging. Reading books is much encouraged.

English is taught using both first and second language English techniques. Teachers structure their lessons using topics, class readers and by following a regular scheme of work.

The general skills of criticism, evaluation, self-expression, persuasion and organisation are taught in English lessons and developed throughout the students’ time in the Schools.

The following items are integral parts of the English programme and are taught throughout the schools sections: grammar, literary study, vocabulary extension, presentation skills, basic reading skills, handwriting and "extended writing" skills.

The students are assessed through the use of three methods: regular quizzes, teacher marks on classroom performance, and quarterly examinations.

English in the Elementary Section

 In English, we use a variety of textbooks to support an inquiry-based learning programme. One series we use is called On Target and it has two textbooks and a big book suitable for Grade 3 upwards. One textbook is called Comprehension & Writing Skills and the other is called Sentence & Word Skills. These books complement each other and cover the main grammar and vocabulary points needed in the Elementary School. The books also encourage students to answer questions and to think. We use two main reading schemes called Oxford Reading Tree and Ginn 360 supported by the SRA Reading Laboratories and a selection of fiction big books.

 Grades 1-2: Teaching the alphabet and the sounds these letters make in words are an important part of the curriculum for our younger learners. There is an emphasis on learning the high frequency words that are used in every day situations, especially in the reading scheme. The students are taught how to form letters correctly. They are beginning to write sentences by themselves. Oxford Reading Tree and Ginn 360 Reading Schemes are used in Grades 1 – 2, along with fiction and non-fiction big books.

Grades 7, 8 and 9 (Preparatory)

In Grade 7 the main textbook is Learning Objectives 1. In Grade 8 we use Learning Objectives 2. and in Grade 9 IGCSE English as a Second Language.. These textbooks are supported by the use of graded readers, other grammar books such as Developing Comprehension and by the regular use of audio cassettes and videos. The SRA Reading Laboratories are used throughout these years also. In Grades 8 and 9 we lay the foundation for skills students are likely to need in IGCSE English as a Second Language and other exams. Independent reading is strongly encouraged.

Grades 10, 11 and 12 (Secondary)

In Grade 10 we use IGCSE English as a Second Language. In Grade 11 we use Advanced English as our main textbook while continuing to use graded readers, such as Romeo and Juliet and Pride and Prejudice. This is supplemented by Oxford Secondary English. By Grade 11 we expect students to be of First Certificate level. In Grade 12 students have to sit the Ministry-set school graduation examination, Al Thanawiya Al-Amah. The texts for the literature part of the exam in 2005/2006 are Arms and the Man and Far from the Madding Crowd. Additionally, we use Practise Writing and other appropriate supporting material. The majority of students leave school with extremely high marks in the English component of Al Thanawiya Al-Amah.

P.O. Box 644       Mina Al Fahal         Postal Code 116     Sultanate of Oman         Telephone:       +968 24607620    Fax: +968 24695927