French
At our school, we believe that learning a foreign language is a vital part of a well-rounded education. The study of French provides our pupils with an opening to other cultures, helping them to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around them.
Nationally, the teaching of a Modern Foreign Languages is statutory at Key Stage 2, but at Funtington we believe children should start learning another language as early as possible to encourage their curiosity and understanding of the world from a young age.
Our French curriculum is designed to progressively build pupils' competence in the key skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing over the course of their primary education. We follow the National Curriculum for Languages, which aims to ensure that all pupils:
- Understand and respond to spoken and written French from a variety of authentic sources
- Speak with increasing confidence, fluency and spontaneity, improving the accuracy of their pronunciation and intonation
- Can write for different purposes and audiences, using a variety of grammatical structures
- Develop an appreciation for French literature, poetry and culture
In Key Stage 2, pupils begin their study of French, focusing on practical communication around familiar and routine matters. Lessons incorporate songs, rhymes, stories and conversational activities to engage pupils and make language learning active and enjoyable.
As pupils progress, the curriculum builds in complexity, enabling them to express ideas, facts and feelings with greater sophistication. They learn to manipulate grammatical structures and vocabulary to communicate their own thoughts and opinions. Opportunities are provided for pupils to read adapted French texts and write creatively.
Throughout their French learning journey, pupils develop a sound understanding of phonics, grammar and vocabulary. This linguistic foundation supports their potential to continue language study at the secondary level. Importantly, it also helps them appreciate the diversity of languages and cultures in our interconnected world.
Our French curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure steady progress in the key areas of language learning. Pupils are encouraged to take risks, learn from mistakes, and develop a lifelong love of language learning.