Modern Foreign Languages: 

French

Intent

At Park Mead Primary School, the intention of our MFL curriculum is to develop an interest in and a desire for learning other languages. We aim to introduce the learning of the French language and the understanding of the cultures of French speaking countries in an enjoyable and stimulating way. We aim to develop an excitement and interest for learning other languages from Key Stage 1 onwards. We hope to embed the essential skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. We aim to build the children’s awareness of similarities and differences between cultures and in so doing lay the foundations for future language learning. We want the children to appreciate the huge benefits learning a language provides.

Implementation

Our MFL curriculum is designed to progressively develop language learning skills in French. The lessons ensure children acquire a bank of vocabulary centered on specific topics. They ensure language development is progressive as each lesson builds on previous knowledge from units already studied.

All children in Key Stage 2 are taught French in a weekly discrete lesson planned by a MFL specialist. Lessons are delivered by the MFL Specialist in Years 4, 5 and 6.

Key Stage 1 children are introduced to MFL by the class teacher through exploring other languages informally when studying another country and by informal introductions such as PE warm-ups, greetings during register time, games and classroom displays. Lessons and resources are prepared for Class Teachers to use as and when time allows.

We also focus on French outside the classroom: signs are designed by the Key Stage 2 children and displayed around the school to make language learning more purposeful. We are endeavoring to establish links with a French partner school to enable Year 6 children to engage in conversation and writing with a purpose.

Impact
Through the high quality teaching of French:

• Children will become aware that a language have structures which differ.
• Children will develop their language and communication through the four key skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
• Children will enrich their language learning by developing an understanding of the French speaking cultures.
• Children will transfer to KS3 effectively, being well prepared to continue and develop their language skills.