French Overview

Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) prepares pupils to participate in a rapidly changing world in which work and other activities are often carried out in languages other than English. Increased capability in the use of MFL promotes initiative, confidence and independent learning and encourages the understanding of cultural diversity within society (article 29: goals of education). Owing to their lack of inhibition, young children are enthusiastic participants in oral exchanges, making early language learning a great developer of receptive and productive oral skills, as well as of enjoyment for language learning and communication.

At Broughton, French is taught to children throughout key stage 1 and 2 by a specialist primary French teacher during weekly time-tabled lessons. There is some introduction to the language in reception class. A variety of techniques are used to enable children to actively engage in the modern foreign language: these include games, role-play, songs (particularly action songs), storytelling and interactive ICT programs.

We also use real objects e.g: food, drinks, puppets and toys, to bring the language to life. Videos and audio tracks expose the children to different voices in the foreign language. New vocabulary in the foreign language is taught using a variety of approaches including mime and actions. The teaching of the specific sounds of French and the related graphemes is a key part in the development of good pronunciation of the target language at Broughton. Lessons aim to be as interactive, lively, entertaining and enjoyable as possible, as we believe that this approach develops a positive attitude to the learning of modern foreign languages, which will progress into a life-long love of language.