Modern Languages
Intent
The focus of our curriculum is centred on the development of pupil’s communication skills, self-efficacy, strong and durable retention of language, independence and autonomy. Our main focus is on the depth of learning and the long-term retention of the 3 pillars of learning – vocabulary, phonics and grammar – and ensuring that students are committing the language and skills they are taught into their long-term memory. Through this they will learn how to manipulate grammar to allow them to personalise information and retain core phrases that can be reused in a large number of real-life situations. With this knowledge and confidence, they will become resilient and competent linguists.
Our KS3 languages curriculum is knowledge-rich in both skills and language. The KS3 SOW is cyclical in terms of grammar and vocabulary/structures with topics and skills being revisited regularly in order to recall and build upon prior knowledge. Pupils will develop an extensive core of vocabulary and grammatical structures which will be learned and regularly practised and retrieved, so that they are confident communicators.
The aim is to create a well-rounded linguist but also make languages enjoyable by building confident, successful linguists. As there are clear educational, personal, cultural, social, career and business benefits in being able to communicate in a foreign language, at all Key Stages, students are taught to communicate effectively in all four skills – reading, writing, listening and speaking. The invaluable communication skills and creativity developed through learning a foreign language will foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of other cultures on a local, national and international stage.
There is ambition and opportunity for all pupils to study a language up to the age of 16. Every student is studying either French or Spanish up until the end of Year 9, then students are encouraged to choose to study languages at GCSE level as part of a strong EBacc offer.
We want students to have a curiosity and fascination in discovering the world and its people, as well as having an interest and intention to travel in order to deepen their understanding of different cultures and societies. We therefore aim to incorporate as much human interest and culture into lessons as possible and provide students with many extra-curricular opportunities and real-life experiences including plays, restaurant visits, fêtes, Hispanic and Francophone days, EDoL, Day of the Dead and many more. Through this, we hope to provide students with an experience and acceptance of other cultures, and an enjoyment of and inquisitiveness for another language and its culture. In order for our students to be a success in the wider community we feel it is important for them to appreciate other cultures and other parts of the world.
Considering the local context of N E Lincolnshire, it is vital for our students to learn an additional language to promote opportunities for our students to either work for local industries that have an international outlook or work in other regions of the world.
KS4
GCSE in Spanish or French (Examination Board: AQA) - will be assessed in all four skill areas using traditional exams at the end of the course.
The assessment will be weighted:
- Writing examination - 25%
- Speaking examination - 25%
- Reading examination - 25%
- Listening examination - 25%
