Modern Foreign Languages
INFORMED INDEPENDENT INVESTED INDIVIDUAL
Modern Foreign Languages at Ilketshall
INFORMED
It has been proven in scientific studies that learning a language promotes stronger connections in brain activity. According to a Cambridge University article, “Bilingual people have more … neurons and dendrites compared to people who speak only one language. This means that their grey matter is denser,” which is obviously something we want to promote in the growth of our children. Besides this, language learning “coordinates communication between the different brain regions, helping your brain to learn and function”. In fact, children who learn languages from very early on, are found to have better cognitive function, in general. Language learning, according to studies, develops better academic performance, improved concentration, more powerful memory skills and stronger communication skills. Language learning is not just about being a more well-rounded person, it actually has a huge impact on the brain and actual cognitive function. The days of thinking of Modern Foreign Language as just a lovely add-on to the curriculum are over, it is now seen as an important area that children should be informed about during their primary years.
(https://www.cambridge.org/elt/blog/2022/04/29/learning-language-changes-your-brain/)
INDEPENDENT
Learning a new language brings a new challenge and way of thinking to every child. It presents not only a new way to communicate, but also a new approach to using language and a chance to test resilience and perseverance. Our curriculum offers a systematic approach to learning a new language, namely French. The learning in each year group builds on the one before so by Year 6 children are able to converse in French over a range of subject areas. We focus on French, but in doing so we develop the skills and techniques needed to learn any different language.
INVESTED
It is wonderful to see the excitement in every child as they realise they are communicating in a new way. We encourage them to use new vocabulary and phrases with each other and across the curriculum. So for example, the register and dinner decisions will use new vocabulary in key stage 2. We also share texts that are written in French so that children see they are not only able to communicate verbally in this way, but also in written form. In our spelling lessons, we can help children see the connections and use of understanding language by teaching about French derived words in our own language. This is another gateway children have to exploring the world around them and their potential.
INDIVIDUAL
Learning a new language is a new pathway to communicating with others. It requires bravery in experimenting with new words and ways of interacting and this in itself brings confidence and pride in every child as they acquire this new skill. It offers a different challenge to other areas of the curriculum and allows every child to flourish, which is wonderful for self esteem!