At St Andrew’s Primary school, we learn French as a modern foreign language. Children begin French lessons in Year 3 but often get an introduction to basic French words in Early Years and KS1.
Intent
We want our pupils to acquire basic French language skills before they leave primary school in order for them to excel in the subject when they begin secondary school. They will be able to know words for everyday nouns and be able to use them in sentences and conversations. They will also gain an understanding of French culture and geography.
The KS2 children will have a weekly lesson, taught by our HLTAs, using an interactive program which engages and interests the children. The audio, heard through the interactive whiteboard, ensures the children hear correct pronunciation and intonation, ensuring accuracy in their language skills.
Learning is fun, with a combination of games and activities, as well as partner work to develop the art of French conversation.
Implementation
Throughout KS2, children will learn;
Understanding and using the foreign language
- In the early stages of language learning pupils might be taught:
- how to use and respond to the foreign language
- how to listen carefully in order to discriminate sounds, identify meaning and develop auditory awareness
- correct pronunciation and intonation
- how to ask and answer questions
- techniques for memorising words, phrases and short extracts
- how to use context and clues to interpret meaning
- how to make use of their knowledge of English or another language in learning the foreign language.
- Pupils can be taught about other countries and cultures by:
- working with authentic materials including some from ICT-based sources
- considering their own culture and comparing it with others
- considering the experiences of other people.
- In order to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding further, pupils might also be taught:
- the interrelationship of sounds and writing
- simple aspects of grammar and how to apply them
- how to initiate conversations
- how to use dictionaries and other reference materials
- how to communicate with each other in the foreign language in pairs
- and groups and with their teacher
- how to use their knowledge of the language creatively and imaginatively
- how to use the foreign language for real purposes.
Impact
As a result of learning French in this way, our children will be confident French speakers and listeners, who have the skills to have a basic conversation in another language.
Curriculum Enrichment
It is our long-term plan that we will visit France with some of our children so that they can apply their language skills in real life situations.
Please see our Whole School Long Term Plan to see what our pupils will study during each year here.
