At Corrie, we aim to develop children’s experience of language acquisition and encourage curiosity about languages. Our chosen language is French, based on popularity of choice at KS3, staff knowledge and availability of quality resources. Language lies at the heart of ideas about individual identity and community, and learning another language can do a great deal to shape children’s ideas in this critical area as well as giving them a new perspective on their own language. The skills, knowledge and understanding gained make a major contribution to the development of children’s oral and literary development and to their understanding of their own culture(s) and those of others.
Our aims of teaching MFL are for children to:
- Foster an interest in learning another language.
- Become aware that language has a structure, and that this structure differs from one language to another.
- Develop speaking and listening skills.
- Gain enjoyment, pride and a sense of achievement.
- Explore and apply strategies to improve their learning.
- Explore their own cultural identities and those of others.
At Corrie, we use a variety of teaching and learning styles in our MFL lessons. Children have the opportunity to learn and express themselves using resources such as stories, songs, role play and creative writing. We aim for a balance of whole class, group and independent learning. Wherever possible we encourage children to use and apply their learning in other areas of the curriculum. ICT, PE and Music, for example, are particularly appropriate for cross-curricular teaching. Children are able to reflect on their learning and self assess their progress using the ‘Languages Portfolio’.