Modern Foreign Languages Curriculum Rationale

The Oaks School recognises the value of teaching a modern foreign language in the curriculum. A modern foreign language is one of the foundation subjects of the National Curriculum. The Oaks School believes that having the opportunity to learn a modern foreign language has a vital role to play in the education of its pupils.

It gives the opportunity to:

• develop communication skills in that language;
• develop personal effectiveness though an enhancement of self-esteem;
• develop important transferable study skills;
• broaden cultural horizons and enhance social skills and self-confidence;
• promote positive attitudes towards people from other countries and other cultures and
• develops pupils’ understanding of themselves and their own culture;
• experience a wide range of teaching and learning styles and participate in a variety of activities;
• make a fresh start, with no preconceptions.

The Oaks School believes its aim in the provision of a modern foreign language is, within the capabilities of the pupils, to:

• develop the pupils’ communicative skills to their fullest potential;
• raise awareness of language in general, and how language works;
• foster positive attitudes towards other cultures, counter prejudice and develop in pupils a
• readiness to see their own culture in the context of the multilingual, multicultural society in
• which they live;
• provide an enjoyable and stimulating learning experience;
• develop collaborative learning skills, through group and pair work, and to help pupils
• develop their skills and attitudes to enhance their personal effectiveness;
• develop the pupils’ ability to work independently.