French

MFL teaching at Manshead is interactive, challenging and enables students to become knowledgeable, strategic, resilient, independent and confident communicators, which are invaluable skills that they will need throughout their school careers and beyond. The aim of the KS3 course is to introduce pupils to language learning strategies, knowledge and skills that they can apply to learning other foreign languages in the future by way of Strategies for Learning (S4L). The assessment schedule includes regular knowledge recall of “the basics” of French or Spanish given to them via knowledge organiser such as the ‘Battle Plan’ to ensure students can use the most common vocabulary and constructions spontaneously and with confidence. Through this focus on independent speaking and writing, we are preparing students for the demands of the new GCSE course in addition to creating competent communicators. In addition, we also teach students about the culture of French and Spanish speaking places around the globe, encouraging understanding and acceptance of other beliefs.

Modern Foreign Language students are challenged from the minute that they walk in to their language lessons at Manshead CoE Academy. MFL teachers use target language to immerse students into Foreign Language worlds where they are expected to communicate with their teachers and peers in French or Spanish. In lessons, the use of authentic videos and songs capture students’ imaginations as they piece language together to decipher meaning and become independent and resilient linguists. All Manshead students learn about the culture of French and Spanish speaking countries, studying festivals and celebrations as and when they happen around the world.

Students have access to the department’s key vocabulary and grammar knowledge organisers within their books and interactively via their Show my Homework accounts, giving parents the opportunity to support our children in their MFL journey and explore languages using the school’s ‘home super curriculum’.

The department gives students digital access to key vocabulary and grammar via Show my Homework in the form of links and associated apps to support their learning. For example, we have written and organised the unit’s key vocabulary and grammar onto Quizlet.com for them to practice, learn and recall this vital knowledge, whilst at the same time giving them the opportunity to use it and learn it organically. Other opportunities for knowledge acquisition are given through Kerboodle.com, Spanishdict.com and Linguascope.com to name a few. The MFL department has run many trips over the years to allow students to use their language skills in authentic situations and to experience the culture of French and Spanish speaking places. Over the last few years, we have visited Barcelona, Murcia, Calais and Paris to name a few and are currently planning our next trip.

Furthermore, students have the opportunity to attend International Film Club where we watch a range of films in a variety of different languages. Here, they will enjoy many different films throughout the year, ranging from Justice League in Spanish to The Avengers in French. Finally, in order to support students who may need some extra help with homework, we run lunchtime drop-in sessions for French and Spanish where students from all years can get help on their homework without having to arrange it with a teacher beforehand.