Joydens Wood Junior School

At Joydens Wood Junior School, we have chosen to use the Kapow Scheme of work to aide in the implementation of our Language curriculum. Through this scheme, it allows us to progressively build up knowledge and skills within the French language for children to study and enjoy.

Intent

At Joydens Wood Junior School, we aim for all pupils to develop a genuine interest and positive curiosity about foreign languages, finding them enjoyable and stimulating. Learning French will also offer pupils the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of other cultures and the world around them with a better awareness of self, others and cultural differences. The intention is that they will be working towards becoming life-long language learners.

Implementation

Our MFL curriculum is designed to progressively develop children’s skills in languages through weekly taught lessons. The Kapow programme has been chosen to develop skills in French progressively. The lessons ensure children acquire a bank of vocabulary organised around topics. They ensure development is progressive as they build on previous knowledge from units already studied. Children are encouraged and supported to develop their speaking and listening skills through conversational work, singing activities and games. As their confidence and skills grow, children record their work through a range of tailored activities to ensure that all children can access the MFL curriculum that is outlined in the national curriculum. Units are progressive within themselves, building on the language and knowledge taught in previous lessons. As pupils progress through the lessons in a unit, they will build their knowledge and develop the complexity of the language they use.

Impact

Learning another language has many benefits for both the individual and the wider community. It helps to break down social barriers and encourages cross-cultural understanding, as well as helping the individual to boost their problem-solving, memory, critical thinking and listening skills. Being able to speak a second language can even help improve understanding of areas such as grammar in their native language. By the time children leave Joydens Wood Junior School, they can use and apply their French learning in a variety of contexts and have the foundations for future language learning. Children are equipped with the core skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing necessary to access the KS3 curriculum.