The intention of the French curriculum at Ribbon Academy is that children are exposed to different languages and cultures in an engaging, enjoyable and stimulating manner. Throughout our curriculum design, we strive for our pupils to: ·
- express their ideas and thoughts in another language;
- read and decode words both that they have learned and haven’t using phonic knowledge;
- understand basic grammar and punctuation;
- communicate through speaking, listening, reading and writing in French;
- compare cultures and values of Britain and France;
- gain an understanding and appreciation of the world around them taking in to account the differences of religious and cultural beliefs;
- retain key words, phrases and questions.
We recognise that teaching MFL is a vital way to enhance pupil’s perceptions and to promote positive attitudes towards cultural diversity.
At Ribbon, French is taught in whole-class, mixed ability utilizing the expert knowledge available through our Scheme of Work – ‘Salut!’ – where objectives and activities are designed to progressively develop children’s language skills. All lessons are planned and designed to motivate, captivate and interest children from the first moment. This allows children to hear native speakers with accurate pronunciation, regardless of the teacher’s own fluency. Children have the opportunity to develop their speaking and listening skills through conversational work, singing activities and games.
Our MFL (French) Overview outlines the essential details to ensure a progressive coverage of the National Curriculum whilst providing our teachers with the tools required to support the development of well-practised linguists. These details include: –
- progression of teaching topics
- identification and progression of French skills to teach, learn and practise
- prioritised knowledge and language to know, providing clear and focused information.
Our French Overview is one part of our four year vision and plan with the newly introduced ‘Salut!’ ensuring children are exposed to the early knowledge content of the programme whilst experiencing support in developing speaking, listening, reading and writing skills at their age-appropriate level. As each unit of Salut! takes into account prior learning, it is important children receive the accurate coverage. We strive to give children a solid foundation for future foreign language learning.
Our weekly French lesson in KS2 are supported by informal teaching in KS1 to provide children with some basic vocabulary such as; greetings, numbers, instructions and familiar songs. We aim to develop confidence, familiarity and an interest in learning another language. Similarly in KS2, learning is supplemented by French being revisited throughout the week through basic conversation, greetings, commands and songs.
In addition to the demands of the National Curriculum mentioned above, at Ribbon, we also provide children with a range of cultural experiences to support their understanding of life around the world. We host celebration days linked to key dates in the calendar including European Day of Languages and Bastille Day – activities are classroom based, whole school based and even include lunchtime menus.
Possible opportunities for exposure to a foreign language outside of the classroom include links to Secondary schools; visitors from different cultures; an Educational Visit to Paris; Google Expeditions to explore French cities are also identified throughout the year.
