Subject - MFL

MFL, Modern Foreign Languages - French and Spanish

Teaching Staff

 

Intent Statement


“Learning a different language is not only learning different words for the same things, but learning another way to think about things.” Flora Lewis


It is our intent at Cobham Free School to offer all our students an interesting, fun and exceptional education in Modern Foreign Languages. Through language learning, we are developing our students' minds so they can play an active part in our culturally diverse world. 


We believe that the knowledge, skills and understanding gained through learning a language become an essential part of developing students’ oral expression, critical reading, translation skills, clear writing, and editing not only in a foreign language but also in their own.


It is our intention to ensure that the language teaching that students receive provides them with a life-long skill, which enhances their cultural awareness, employability and gives them the fundamentals to become world citizens.

Key Stage 3 - French and Spanish

Year 7 

In year 7 students join us from different backgrounds in their language learning. We introduce students to the Extensive Processing Instruction (EPI - Conti). To help them broaden their understanding of learning different languages, we offer them a carousel of Spanish and French split as follows; September up to February half-term: Spanish. February until July: French. Students then choose what language they would like to continue with throughout their KS3 years.


Year 8 

In Year 8, students focus on developing their language skills in their chosen language. As in all Language learning curriculum, students' learning is centred in enhancing their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. 


French


Spanish


Year 9 

When students reach year 9, most of them have acquired a good understanding of the language they chose at the end of year 7. This is a crucial year for language learning as they pivot on building the basic knowledge to enable them to start their GCSE language learning experience strong. 


French


Spanish

Key Stage 4 - French and Spanish

At Cobham Free School, students have the opportunity of studying French or Spanish at GCSE level. The language offered at this level depends greatly on the main language chosen by students in previous years.


The exam board we teach is AQA for both French and Spanish.


What is in the course?


Theme 1 - Identity and Culture


Theme 2 - Local, national, international and global areas of interest


Theme 3 - Current and future study and employment


How French and Spanish GCSEs are assessed?


GCSE French and Spanish have a Foundation Tier (grades 1 - 5) and a Higher Tier (grades 4 - 9). Students must take all four question papers at the same tier. All question papers must be taken in the same series. 

Extra-curricular opportunities

Cobham Free School offers students the opportunity to travel to France and/ or Spain regularly. We also organise enriching activities in and outside the classroom. Examples: virtual and in person events organised by the Business Language Champions, GCSE and A level conferences in London as well as theatre trips.