French Curriculum Overview

  • At Millbrook we use Language Angels for our MFL (Modern Foreign Language) learning. We use Language Angels as our MFL scheme, as it provides fully incorporated resources, including PowerPoints, worksheets, songs and games to support the introduction and solidification of the French language. The language we have chosen as a school is French. This enables us to use discrete topics to support the development of early language learning.
  • Each unit of work incorporates all the language-based skills: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. We have various topics linked to vocabulary they will already know in English which inspires children to participate and engage.
  • Language Angels enables us to follow the National Curriculum objectives which are incorporated into each unit.
  • By the time they leave Y6 they will have covered how to use discrete vocabulary for various topics, be able to identify items through listening, be able to write simple sentences as well as be able to ask and answer basic questions.
  • French is taught every week in Key Stage 2, once a week and is often discrete although, where possible, units have been chosen to support topic-based learning.
  • In EYFS, the children do not learn French as a distinct language, however they do explore the various languages within their class, as well as the language of various festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
  • In KS1, the children do not learn French as a distinct language, however, they do have French vocabulary on display around the classroom and also share language-based celebrations within RE.
  • Each unit is made up of 6 lessons, with the 6th and final lesson being an assessment based on the unit they have learnt that term.
  • The French units cover topics such as: classroom instructions, fruit, shapes, greetings, the date and even clothing.
  • Across KS2 children produce small amounts of work for each lesson, often it is recording the new vocabulary both in French and English, with a pictorial representation as well. All classrooms from KS1 have a French calendar on display which allows children to be exposed to the language subtly before distinctly learning it from Year 3.
  • Each term, children produce a variety of work using the skills required for language learning. This work can consist of matching French vocabulary to pictorial representations, writing the French terminology underneath the English or a picture or writing simple sentences.
  • Marking of French work is simple and succinct enabling children to identify errors and make a second attempt.
  • On occasion when a lesson is solely oracy work in French, photographic evidence may be taken to identify outcome of the lesson.
  • Many classrooms in KS2, have a French display, this usually consists of the vocabulary for that term, either as flash cards or as a word bank. Also, there is an interactive display for French in the Shared area in Millbrook, which enables children to identify the weather.
  • At Millbrook, many children enjoy learning French as it is an equaliser in ability. They are engaged and participate actively when learning new vocabulary.
  • Children who enjoy French often have curious minds and are eager to delve deeper into cultures of other countries and the
  • Characteristics of learning - Inquisitive, resilient, kindness, empathy, self-confidence and an awareness of others.
  • Children should develop an understanding of culture, an understanding of their place in the world and the place of others.