French
Intent
The approach taken at Woodlands is very much based on this Chinese proverb.
“To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world.”
Studying a language in primary school provides children with essential life skills. As well as giving them the opportunity to learn a second language, it helps to promote a broader intercultural understanding.
All pupils will be expected to achieve their full potential by encouraging high expectations and excellent standards in their foreign language learning - the ultimate aim being that pupils will feel willing and able to continue studying languages beyond Key Stage 2
Implementation
At Woodlands, most children are taught by a Specialist Language Teacher following the ‘Language Angels’ Scheme. The foreign language learning targets for each year of key stage 2 are first broken down in to the speaking, listening, reading, writing and grammar skills pupils should have developed by the end of the year. For each year there then follows a list of specific classroom topics which teachers can use as deliverable classroom realities to ensure all of the required skills are being developed to the right level and at the right pace.
French is introduced formally across KS2 using a scheme which endeavours to link to topic areas where possible, alongside discretely taught units. The lessons aim to be fun and develop children's confidence.
Children can access language learning outside school by attending weekly Language Club or by using the Language Angels app. They also have the opportunity to become Language Ambassadors for their class to promote the use of French in their day to day life.
We encourage our children to embed their learning of the French language through playing games at home. Key Stage 2 children can access the language angels app. Here is the link. Each class has a log in. Please see the class teacher so your child can have access.
Through the planned approach to French teaching, we expect our Key Stage 2 children to be taught the Year group skills for their age group. Children in Year 3 and 4 are working on building their development skills. These include reading, writing, listening and grammar. The skills are progressive and always build on prior knowledge.
Physical French Phonics
'This year we began delivering 'Physical French Phonics' by Sue Cave to enhance the children's reading , spelling and pronunciation skills. Each class is learning 26 sounds commonly found In French by using gestures and flashcard games. Language Ambassadors have been tasked to recap new sounds outside of their French lessons.
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