Grades 1-6 explained
Grade 1
Students build on the basics to become confident communicators, focussing on phonics and word recognition to read, spell, and decode new and common words.
In writing, they start forming simple sentences and creating short narratives or informative pieces. They learn grammar, punctuation, and spelling rules. Speaking and listening are also key, with activities like retelling stories, class discussions, and learning to take turns and listen respectfully.
By the end of Grade 1, students will have a solid foundation in reading, writing, and oral communication, preparing them for more learning in Grade 2.


Grade 2
Students continue building reading, writing, and communication skills. They engage with a variety of texts—stories, informative texts, and poems—to sharpen their comprehension skills, identifying main ideas, sequencing events, and understanding both literal and inferred meanings.
Oral communication is a big focus, with students encouraged to share ideas through class discussions, learning to listen actively and respond thoughtfully.
By the end of the year, they’re becoming confident readers and writers, ready to interpret meaning, reflect on what they read, and create strong written pieces—setting them up for success as they move into Grade 3.
Grade 3
Students build on their reading, writing, and communication skills, exploring more complex ideas. They analyse text structures, language features, and how authors shape meaning, while also practising prediction, inference, and forming opinions.
Writing becomes more sophisticated as they plan, draft, and edit with greater independence, learning to use dialogue punctuation, varied sentence types, and engaging techniques.
In speaking and listening, they grow in confidence, clearly expressing ideas and listening for key points. By the end of Grade 3, they’re independent readers and writers, ready for Grade 4.


Grade 4
Students explore narratives, persuasive texts, and reports, learning how language choices shape meaning. They also identify themes, character development, and key arguments to deepen their analysis.
Writing becomes more structured and expressive, refining their planning, drafting, and editing for clarity and impact.
Through debates, discussions, and presentations, they build confidence in adapting language for different audiences. Finishing grade 4, students can analyse texts, create engaging writing, and communicate effectively—ready for Grade 5!
Grade 5
Students deepen text analysis skills and refine their ability to express complex ideas, exploring how authors use text structures, imagery, and persuasive techniques.
Writing focuses on creating well-structured, detailed texts for various purposes. Students learn to organise ideas using cohesive devices, varied sentence structures, and descriptive language.
Students practise presenting logical arguments, supporting ideas with evidence, and engaging thoughtfully in discussions.
By the end of Grade 5, students can analyse texts, write creatively and precisely, and express their ideas clearly and persuasively, ready for the final year – Grade 6.


Grade 6
Students refine their understanding of language features and conventions, developing skills in comprehension, critical thinking, and analysis.
Students analyse themes, characters, and language devices like imagery, metaphor, and alliteration. Writing focusses on refining skills in persuasive essays, imaginative stories, and reports.
By the end of Grade 6, students confidently present their ideas in both oral and written forms, adapting their style and structure for different audiences and purposes.
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