French
One of the most rewarding aspects of the human experience is our ability to connect with others. Being able to communicate with someone in his or her language is an incredible gift. Our world is immensely diverse with a wealth of different languages being spoken. In today’s increasingly interconnected and interdependent world, language is the most direct connection to other cultures. In addition, the many cognitive benefits of learning languages are undeniable. Children who speak more than one language may have improved memory, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, enhanced concentration, an ability to multi-task and better listening skills, as well as displaying signs of greater creativity and flexibility.
At Tunbury, we have chosen to teach French in Key Stage 2 as our Modern Foreign Language. We follow the ‘Cave Languages’ scheme of work to provide the enjoyment and challenge of learning a new language through weekly lessons. We build the foundations of learning French in Year 3, with children familiarising themselves with the sound systems of a new language and developing their interest, curiosity, and confidence alongside language learning strategies. In Year 4, children work on building structures that help them to apply simple patterns to make sentences, and further develop their confidence and their ability to manipulate and memorise language. In Year 5, when the structure is finished, children begin to become more independent, using a dictionary to make their own sentences, focussing on detail. They are able to join in conversation and express their opinions. In Year 6, children become confident users of language and can apply learning language strategies to transfer language from one context to another. They enjoy showing others what they know and what they can do through conversations and presentations.
Our French Curriculum at Tunbury enables children to make substantial progress within the different areas of language communication, reading, writing, speaking and listening, as well as providing children with a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity. We strive to instil the love of learning different languages in our Tunbury children through challenging, motivating and active lessons that encourage them to continue this lifelong learning journey.
Pupil voice - what do Tunbury learners think about French?
Y3 pupil: “I love how many new words there are in French. It’s fun to learn about it.”
Y4 pupil: “I enjoy learning how to pronounce the words and sounds.”
Y5 pupils: “I like to learn French so that I can be fluent one day. The teachers don’t rush you to learn and they take time to teach us new words.”
Tunbury French Curriculum Overview and French Curriculum Progression
Please view our curriculum documentation to see how we have chosen to teach French at Tunbury Primary School.
