LAnguages

One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.

Frank Smith

Ashton Vale children in Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6) learn Spanish as their modern foreign language.

At Ashton Vale, our intention is to develop the confidence and competence of each child in learning a foreign language (Spanish). Our goal is for children to be passionate, curious and confident about their own foreign language learning abilities. We aim to ensure that pupils of all abilities develop solid foundations in 4 key language learning skills - properly preparing them for the next stage of their language learning journey.

These skills will develop children’s ability to understand what they hear and read and enable them to express themselves in speech and writing. We will extend their knowledge of how language works and explore the similarities and differences between the foreign language they are learning and English. We will also help strengthen their sense of identity through learning about culture in other countries and comparing it with their own.

Key Concepts

The 4 key language skills that will be taught are:

Listening, speaking, reading, writing and grammar

Curriculum Coverage

Our curriculum is made up of 4 types of teaching units.

• Phonetic lessons (x1 for each year group) are taught at the start of each academic year and pupils will learn a selection of the key phonemes to facilitate accurate and authentic pronunciation that underpin the units taught in the rest of the year.

• Early Language units (E) are entry level units and are most appropriate Year 3 pupils with little or no previous foreign language learning.

• Intermediate units (IN) are appropriate year 4 and 5 pupils which increase the level of challenge by increasing the amount and complexity of foreign language and grammar.

• Progressive units (PR)are the most challenging units and are suitable for Year 6 pupils or pupils with a secure understanding of the basics of the language they are learning.

The intent is that all pupils will develop a genuine interest and positive curiosity about foreign languages, finding them enjoyable and stimulating. Learning a second language will also offer pupils the opportunity to explore relationships between language and identity, 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.

Alongside Spanish, children also have the opportunity to be exposed to different languages and cultures through our Languages Club as well as through a culturally diverse curriculum.