Modern Foreign Languages Curriculum Statement

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All pupils at Peninsula East Primary Academy have the right to a rich and deep learning experience that includes the learning of the basics of an additional language. We believe strongly that the study of Languages prepares pupils to participate in a rapidly changing world. At PEPA, we have a strong commitment to international mindedness through the PYP and we look at our learning locally, nationally and globally; language learning provides an opening to other cultures.

We want our pupils to be able to use an additional language to communicate information responsibly and creatively; giving them access to ideas and experiences from a wide range of people, communities and cultures across our school and wider demographic.

Research shows that understanding a modern foreign language increases a child’s understanding of their own language, and the building blocks which form this. The process of learning a foreign language reinforces fluency and understanding of grammar, syntax, sentence structure and verbal precision. Increased capability in the use of languages can also promote initiative and independent learning and encourages diversity within society.

Through the teaching of French at PEPA, we aim to:

At PEPA we teach French using a digital platform called ‘Languagenut’ across all KS2 classes. Lessons typically take between 30 minutes and an hour.

All aspects of the MFL curriculum are covered, with a specific focus on developing confident speaking and listening skills, as well as building an extensive vocabulary bank. Using ‘Languagenut’ provides children with interactive activities that build their vocabulary through play. Reading and writing activities are introduced gradually and, although these are often taught digitally using ‘Languagenut’, we also have floor books to record the language learning journey that we are undertaking in each class. We strongly believe that cultural understanding is a crucial strand when learning any language, and we take opportunities throughout the year to explore this, such as national days like ‘Bastille Day’ and ‘La Chandeleur’.

Regular learning activities consist of a range of games such as: word building; vocabulary noughts and crosses; sentence building; as well as using the digital platform to listen to and record your own voice to develop pronunciation skills – effectively turning the classroom into a digital language laboratory. Teachers and pupils use French in daily routines, for example, through answering the register and displaying the French date within the classroom.

Our MFL curriculum is fun and enjoyed by learners, well-resourced and planned to demonstrate progression through Key Stage 2. In addition, we measure the impact of our curriculum through: