Intent

We recognise that learning a modern foreign language is an entitlement for all pupils during their time in Key Stage 2, and we are committed to the principle that learning another language helps foster a curiosity and deeper understanding of other cultures and the world in general. We believe that learning to understand, speak, read and write another language will provide the basis for learning other languages, which in turn will provide important opportunities for future study and work in other countries. We hope to provide a lifelong respect of other cultures and languages and respect the diverse culture we live in.  We recognise that language learning in its broadest sense has three core strands learning to communicate, learning about language and learning about and comparing different cultures (intercultural understanding). One of the main benefits to the children of learning a modern foreign language at primary school level is a social one. Learning a language ties in with ‘Communication and Community’ which are two of the drivers of St Mary’s School.

 The MFL Leader is Julie Dyer

Implementation

Children will listen to spoken language and show understanding through speaking and writing. They will explore the patterns and sounds of languages through song and rhymes, linking this to spelling, sound and meaning of words

As well as engaging in conversations, ask questions and express opinions.

Children will speak in phrases and sentences as well as read and show understanding of words phrases and language structure. 

During KS2 we will develop intonation and pronunciation when speaking and reading aloud. This will enable us to

• present ideas to peers
• appreciate stories, poems, songs and rhymes
• develop their ability to use new words that are introduced into written material including dictionary work
• write sentences from memory and create new sentences
• describe people, places, things and actions orally and in writing
• to understand basic grammar including gender, verb conjugation and patterns in language

Impact

The impact reflects what we have achieved from our intent, and we can see it by the vast array of activities and opportunities below which sees the three drivers ‘Community, Whole Child and Communication’ in full use.

Learning another language presents opportunities for the reinforcement of knowledge, skills and understanding developed in other curriculum areas using aspects of Literacy such as speaking and listening skills, knowledge and understanding of grammatical structures and sentence construction and in numeracy such as counting, calculations, money, the time and the date

It enables us to promote the concept of a global citizen through maps and as well as developing pupils' cultural awareness of Europe and other French speaking countries

Learning a language broadens pupils spiritual, moral, social and cultural understanding of the world around us and helps us to be tolerant of other people’s believes and practices.