French

Intent:

At Chalfont St Peter Infant School, we believe that learning a modern foreign language provides an opportunity to learn about other cultures. We aim to heighten pupils’ curiosity and deepen their understanding of the world. French has been taught throughout the school since 2009 to all year groups. The language is taught through song, games, conversation and Computing. Pupils are encouraged to gain confidence in speaking and learning new vocabulary. Opportunities are provided for children to communicate, learn new ways of thinking and listen to stories read by native speakers. It is our wish that by learning French and beginning in Reception, it will provide a foundation for learning further languages as our pupils develop skills and grow.

Aims:

• To listen attentively to spoken language and show understanding by joining in and responding
• To explore the patterns and sounds of language through songs and rhymes
• To develop accurate pronunciation and intonation when using familiar words or phrases
• To appreciate stories, songs, poems and rhymes in French
• To broaden vocabulary and develop the ability to understand newly introduced French words.

Implementation:

At Chalfont St Peter Infant School, our French curriculum is carefully planned not only to develop children's language skills, but also a love of learning a language. Through progressively introducing new vocabulary in weekly discrete lessons, children acquire new language. They are encouraged and supported to use their Speaking and Listening skills through conversational work, singing activities and games which sometimes include Computing skills. Key vocabulary is built into each lesson on a theme, E.G. colours. This vocabulary is included in display materials and children are given opportunities to repeat and revise their learning. As their confidence grows throughout KS1, they begin to write using pictures and captions. Previously, we have enjoyed a 'French Day' where the school joined in unison to celebrate French culture, speak and sing in French and dress in traditional colours. We look forward to building further on these opportunities for future theme days. Currently, children are taught by staff who are confident French speakers therefore, teachers feel supported if they are not proficient in speaking the language. Every opportunity is taken to invite native French speakers including parents and the Governor responsible for Modern Foreign Languages.

Impact: 

Through focused, engaging lessons where children enjoy collaborative working and activities that are fun:

• Children will be able to recognise key vocabulary and demonstrate understanding
• Children will become aware that a language has a structure, and that the structure differs from one language to another.
• Children will develop their language through development of skills for Speaking, Listening, Reading and and beginning to write. 
• Children will enrich their language learning by developing an understanding of the French culture.
• Children will learn how language skills can be applied to other areas of the curriculum
• Children will transfer to their next school in KS2 being well prepared to continue and develop their language skills.