Yorkley Primary School

Languages

Modern Foreign Languages (French)

Learning a foreign language is part of the primary National Curriculum and is a requirement for all children within key stage 2 (KS2). Yorkley School has adopted a whole school approach to the teaching of French to all KS2 pupils. Children begin formal learning in KS2 in line with the National Curriculum expectations but are often introduced to some basic French words in KS1.

Communication – We aim for our children to acquire basic French language skills across KS2 focused on the curriculum areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening.  We will extend their knowledge of how language works and explore the similarities and differences between the foreign language they are learning and English. Our children will be able to use simple sentences including everyday nouns, verbs and adjectives when conversing, reading and writing.

Building Me –We aim to develop in our children a strong sense of resilience and a ‘can do’ attitude.  Learning French will provide them with the tools to excel in MFL learning during their secondary years, as well as improve social skills, involvement and initiative.

Belonging – We aim to develop a respect for other languages, cultures, people and places through our curriculum work.  Children will have opportunities to question, consider and identify similarities and differences between languages, cultures, people and places. This will provide the most memorable learning experiences and help children to make sense of the world around them.

Active Adventure – Our children will develop their knowledge of France and its culture and put their learning into a meaningful context. They will learn through active participation in role-play, games, rhymes, stories, song, and many more active ways to extend, embed and combine language skills.

Creativity – We aim to encourage genuine communication and co-operation in the classroom. Children will use the language to do creative tasks in its original function. This prepares the children for using the language instrumentally outside the classroom.