Why do we teach Languages at The Whitehouse?
At The Whitehouse, we aim to teach a broad and balanced curriculum and MFL is taught alongside the other subjects to ensure coverage and to ensure all our children continue with learning MFL whilst they are at our school. At The Whitehouse, we have opted to teach our children French as this is the language taught in the majority of schools in Hull and we believe it will help to prepare them for the next step in their education. We feel it is important the we teach MFL to allow children to communicate in another language and to have familiarity and understanding of another country and its culture.
What is the Language curriculum offer at The Whitehouse?
We use a structured programme which gives opportunities for children to hear authentic French speakers and learn the vocabulary that will help them in every day situations. We offer a weekly lesson where the focus is on speaking and listening to French and the pupils are given regular opportunities to listen and repeat the vocabulary they hear. As part of the programme, we explore the children’s knowledge of France, its people and culture to home give them context for their learning and to broaden their horizons of places beyond Hull and Britain. As teachers, we try to make the lessons short, engaging and fun and we encourage participation throughout the lesson. Within our classes, we are aware that some children find it difficult to speak in front of their peers so we create a non-threatening environment where children can participate as much as they feel able and teacher’s will accommodate pupil’s needs and anxieties.
How are knowledge and skills acquired in Languages?
The school follows a programme which is matched to National Curriculum key vocabulary is recapped in lessons and lessons advance sequentially covering themes like greetings, colours, animals, animals and fairy tales. The lessons are taught through speaking and listening with links made to prior learning in English such as stories and the use of pictures. All our teachers offer a flexible approach to lessons so plans are adapted to meet the needs of all the children so all children can be successful in every session at a level they feel appropriate.
What enrichment opportunities do pupils receive in Languages?
We aim to include enrichment activities that give the children a sense of the culture of France and give them an opportunity to experience other foods, music and places to visit around the country. These taster sessions help to put the lessons into context and give our children an opportunity to gain knowledge of another country.
