What is French?
“Languages are an essential part of a broad, balanced curriculum. Not only do they provide an opportunity to communicate more effectively with others, they also help children to understand what it is to be a global citizen. This includes the importance of tolerance and understanding, which is crucial knowledge in today’s world.”
Michael Wardle HMI Ofsted’s subject lead for languages
Communication in the World
The curriculum at Dodleston allows children to experiment with French from Reception, wondering at the differences and building confidence making new sounds at an early age. Through the programme of study pupils see a wide range of examples of different traditions and ways of living to broaden their understanding and tolerance of those they meet.
The 4 skills – Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing
All French teaching at Dodleston starts with careful listening and speaking. Lots of opportunities are given to experiment with new sounds in a safe environment to build confidence. Reading is then introduced and the difference in phonics is taught explicitly to ensure correct pronunciation. Writing develops from key words reinforcing literacy letter formation in Class 1, through short phrases to combining sentences incorporating the grammar that has been learnt.
Phonics
By introducting phonemes explicitly and revisiting them frequently the pupils understand the differences between English and French and are able to confidently read a piece of unknown text with relatively high accuracy and understand more of what they read.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary is the main key to communcation and at Dodleston a wide range of vocabulary is taught to pupils which progresses in complexity through the age groups. Our goal is for quick recall of key language blocks that the children can piece together confidently as they progress in their language learning knowing they have the key word to communicate their needs.
Grammar
Grammar allows pupils to adapt the vocabulary that they know to make meaningful sentences. At Dodleston in the early stages grammar is taught implicitly progresses to explicit teaching in class 2. The impact of word gender, the use of the negative and how verbs change according to who you are talking about are key concepts covered through the curriculum.
Long Term Planning
