Languages

'Language shapes the way we think, and determines what we can think about.' Benjamin Lee Whorf 

At St James Primary school, we encourage every child to develop a modern foreign language (French). We follow the National Curriculum, taught through the Rising Stars scheme of work.  

Children develop their speaking and listening skills throughout Key stage 2. They start developing accuracy in pronunciation, by listening to and repeating recordings of authentic speakers. By Year 6, pupils engage in short, scripted conversations. They also ask and answer simple questions on familiar topics. 

In reading, children begin by recognising key vocabulary and written phrases. By Year 6, pupils practice reading longer texts aloud, containing taught phrases and vocabulary. They also learn to understand short texts made up of short sentences, with familiar language. To enhance their understanding of French texts, every Key stage 2 class has dual language (English to French) books. 

Languages progression of skills