Introduction
A Modern Foreign Language is offered in Years 5, 6, 7 and 8 at Bacton Middle School with French currently the language. Our aim is to teach pupils to communicate by developing four basic language skills. The initial emphasis is on listening and speaking activities.
There is a gradual introduction of reading and writing skills with importance placed on increasing confidence and pleasure in language learning. Songs, games and authentic materials are used in order to create a lively and stimulating atmosphere.
Pupils in Year 7 and 8 have the opportunity to develop their language skills through specified programmes of study, in line with National Curriculum requirements. We use "Metro" a scheme which has pupil books, audio materials and linked computer programs. Skills are developed further through individual use of computers.
Pupils are assessed as part of their course work through tasks that require the use of the four language skills. There are a lot of opportunities to develop linguistic and cultural links abroad through participation in an educational language visit to a town in France with which we have a penpal link. Extra-curricular activities are available through French Club. More able pupils have the opportunity to experience extension work during Year 8.