Pre KS2 - Reception

Many schools already offer the teaching of languages to younger children pre KS2. Entitlement does not require this but the KS2 Framework cites the development of communicative and social skills, active-listening and a growing recognition of how language works as examples of some of the benefits.

This subconscious awareness of how a language operates, the pronunciation, idioms, rhythm and music, intonation and structure of the language can constitute a solid base for later, more conscious language learning (Hidasi,2009). There is evidence, too, of the cognitive benefits of early language learning and that young learners may show academic gains in other curriculum areas (Lee, 1996; Wilburn-Robinson,1998). And, in the context of rapid globalisation, it makes sense for children to make early contact with a language and culture other than their own.

Weather Story

The teacher, working with a reception class, links familiar weather phrases with the days of the week and tells a story in French.