We implement our French language curriculum in Key Stage 2 by adhering to the National Curriculum for Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) and utilising the Primary Languages Network Scheme of Work. Our approach includes:

1. Weekly Lessons: French is taught weekly starting from Year 3, allowing students to engage regularly with the language and develop their skills progressively.

2. Focus on Key Skills: Each lesson encompasses the five essential language learning skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing and phonetics. This comprehensive approach ensures that students become well-rounded language learners.

3. Active Learning Methods: We engage students via a video-led scheme called Primary Languages Network, which encompasses a variety of interactive and creative methods, including:

   • Actions and Rhymes: Utilising kinaesthetic learning to reinforce vocabulary and phrases.

   • Stories and Songs: Incorporating culturally relevant materials to enhance comprehension and enjoyment.

   • Grammar Exercises: Teaching grammatical concepts in a contextual manner to deepen understanding.

   • Video Clips and Dictionary Work: Using multimedia resources to expose students to authentic language use and improve their research skills.

   • Sentence Structure Activities: Encouraging students to construct sentences independently, fostering creativity and confidence.

The above scheme can be video-led, which benefits from the use of a native speaker and encourages accurate teaching of pronunciation. However, teachers, if they prefer, can opt for the click-to-teach version which is led through PowerPoint slides and allows for the lesson to be more teacher-led.

4. Progressive Complexity: Each unit is designed to build on prior knowledge, with increasing complexity and challenge as students advance through Key Stage 2. This scaffolding approach ensures that students feel supported while also being pushed to expand their skills.

5. Recycling and Revising Content: We continuously revisit and consolidate previous learning to reinforce understanding and retention. This cyclical review allows students to deepen their mastery of the language.

6. Appropriate Challenges: We prioritise setting suitable challenges that cater to each student’s level of proficiency. By adapting lessons to meet the diverse needs of learners, we foster a positive learning environment that promotes enthusiasm and engagement in language learning.

The impact of our French language curriculum at Bowdon Church School is assessed through various qualitative and quantitative measures, ensuring that we meet our educational goals and continually enhance our program. The expected outcomes include:

1. Language Proficiency: By the end of Key Stage 2, students will have developed a solid foundation in French, demonstrating the ability to:

   • Pronounce basic French words and phrases correctly.

   • Understand the influence of grammatical gender on nouns and articles.

   • Engage in simple conversations and make requests in French.

2. Enhanced Communication Skills: Students will show improvement in essential communication skills, including:

   • Increased confidence in speaking and listening through regular practice and interactive activities.

   • Improved reading comprehension as they engage with age-appropriate French texts and materials.

   • The ability to write simple sentences and paragraphs in French, utilising correct grammar and vocabulary.

3. Cultural Awareness: Learning French will foster a deeper appreciation of French culture and the cultures of other French-speaking countries, promoting:

   • Greater empathy and understanding of cultural diversity.

   • An expanded world view as students recognise and appreciate different perspectives.

4. Engagement and Motivation: Our interactive and creative approach to language learning is designed to inspire a love for the French language, leading to:

   • High levels of student engagement and participation in lessons.

   • A positive attitude toward language learning, encouraging students to continue studying languages in the future.

5. Assessment and Monitoring: We utilise various assessment methods to monitor student progress, including:

   • Formative Assessments: Regular assessments during lessons to gauge understanding and identify areas for improvement.

   • Summative Assessments: End-of-unit assessments to evaluate overall language proficiency and knowledge retention.

   • Pupil Voice: Gathering feedback from students about their learning experiences to identify strengths and areas for development in the curriculum.

6. Long-term Benefits: By equipping students with foundational language skills, we aim to prepare them for future opportunities, including:

   • Enhanced prospects for secondary school language studies.

   • Increased confidence and competence in engaging with French-speaking communities and cultures.