French
Our Intent for French
“Learning another language is not only learning different words for the same things, but learning another way to think about things.” Flora Lewis
At WASPS we believe that learning a language is an essential part of being a member of a multi-cultural society and that it provides an opening into other cultures. Our aim is to provide a high-quality language education, through which children will learn to listen, speak and write in French, whilst also fostering their curiosity to explore and understand societies and cultures from around the world.
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” Nelson Mandela
Learning an additional language from an early age boosts cognitive flexibility, enhances communication and increases confidence, as well as expanding cultural awareness. This is why at WASPS we introduce French in EYFS and KS1 through biweekly lessons focusing on Speaking and Listening. Children in KS2 are taught French weekly using the Language Angels resources. Units have been mapped to ensure that children learn how to communicate for a wide range of practical purposes and about topics that link to other subjects they are studying. Phonetic pronunciation and grammar lessons provide the foundations that can be applied to learning further languages. In Lower KS2, children acquire basic skills and understanding of French with a strong emphasis placed on developing their Speaking and Listening skills. These will be embedded and further developed in Upper KS2, alongside Reading and Writing, gradually progressing onto more complex language concepts and greater learner autonomy.
We intend for children to leave WASPS with a natural curiosity and confidence to explore other countries, cultures and languages, with an understanding that in a multi-lingual society it is a valuable skill to be able to communicate effectively with others in another language. We aim for them all to be engaged and prepared to continue language learning at Secondary School.
