Modern Foreign Language
Intent
At Walderslade Primary School, we provide a relevant, broad and ambitious foreign languages curriculum through a range of themes. Our pupils in EYFS and Key Stage 1 are first introduced to the French language through songs, rhymes and/or basic phrases. In Key Stage 2 pupils will be taught the four key language learning skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing alongside age-appropriate grammar. Applying their learning in different contexts will enable pupils to develop confidence in both written and oral skills within the language. At Walderslade Primary, we ensure that children not only learn the fundamental key skills of communicating in a different language, but also that children are equipped with the understanding and awareness of different cultures, traditions and identity.
Within their learning of a foreign language, pupils will acquire key transferable skills such as strategies for memorisation and retrieval, recognising patterns in language and manipulating grammar to write creatively.
Our intent is that all our pupils develop a positive curiosity about learning another language through engaging and enjoyable lessons which will provide them with the key foundations for future language learning.
Implementation
Our French curriculum is taught in Key Stage 2 through weekly lessons using the Language Angels scheme of work. These lessons are designed to be progressive, build on pupils’ prior learning and offer challenge in relation to the four key language learning skills. Phonics, vocabulary and grammar are introduced systematically and explicitly in each unit of work. In addition to the teacher speaking in French, pupils will also have the opportunity to listen to native speakers through video and sound files. Throughout Key Stage 2, pupils will be encouraged to demonstrate their learning through shared talking, games, role-play, rhymes and songs.
At the end of each unit, a summative assessment, which focuses on the four key areas (reading, writing, speaking and listening), is carried out so that pupils can reflect on their learning and be aware of their strengths within their language learning.
Impact
The impact of children’s learning in French is monitored by the subject leader through book looks, data analysis, pupil voice, lesson observations and moderation of teacher judgements.
At Walderslade Primary, the impact of the MFL curriculum can be seen through increased pupil confidence in speaking another language, enthusiastic learners who have positive attitudes towards foreign language learning and good progression of linguistic skills and knowledge. Progress is shown in all four areas which is further reflected through summative assessments at the end of each teaching unit. Walderslade Primary ensures that our pupils will leave year six with a strong foundation of language skills and an enthusiasm for learning of a foreign language that they will continue to develop in KS3.
