English - Spoken Language
Spoken Language
Our School Offer for Spoken Language
Within the Purpose of Study for Spoken Language (National Curriculum 2014), we know that ‘Spoken language underpins the development of reading and writing. The quality and variety of language that pupils hear and speak are vital for developing their vocabulary and grammar and their understanding for reading and writing…’
What do we mean by Spoken Language?
Pupils should be taught to develop their competence in spoken language and listening to enhance the effectiveness with which they are able to communicate across a range of contexts and to a range of audiences. Pupils will use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas. Pupils will develop their competency in the art of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate
How do we teach Spoken Language?
We teach the statutory requirements across all subjects; Spoken Language is not bound to discrete teaching
In Year 3 & 4, we teach pupils to become more familiar with and confident in using language in a greater variety of situations, for a variety of audiences & purposes, including through drama, formal presentations and debate
In Year 5 & 6, pupils’ confidence, enjoyment and mastery of language is extended through public speaking, performance and debate
All pupils have opportunities to work in groups of different sizes eg. pairs, small groups, large groups and as a whole class
We teach pupils to understand how to take turns and how to participate constructively in conversations and debates
Across all subjects, we focus on vocabulary acquisition eg. in Comprehension lessons, new vocabulary is highlighted, discussed and defined in order to increase children’s understanding of words
How do we inspire a love of Spoken Language?
We provide a ‘language – rich’ environment where words are celebrated and explored eg. ‘Wall of Words’ in each classroom. Adults talk with children throughout the day, modelling standard English and celebrating the nuances of the English language.
We take part in National Events eg. World Book Day and National Storytelling Week; whole school themes are agreed and planned to allow class collaboration and to ensure a purpose to share and celebrate with an audience.
Every year, Year 3 & 4 and Year 5 & 6, take part in a school production where children have the opportunity to rehearse, refine and share a high quality performance with an audience.
How do we help children who find Spoken Language difficult?
Within the classroom, staff are aware of individual needs and support skill and knowledge acquisition when required. Staff may work with identified children in smaller groups to help them to prepare their ideas before they write or speak.
Children who need more support are first monitored by the Class Teacher and the school’s Universal Provision Map is used to ensure suitable provision. A referral to the SENDCO may be required at a later date.
How do we assess Spoken Language?
Each child is assessed against the key statutory requirements for Spoken Language; this may be through observation within the classroom or within a larger performance/ school event.
How can Parents/Carers help?
Parents/Carers can help by listening to and talking about stories and non – fiction books as this helps to develop their vocabulary and organise their thinking. Talking about current news and relevant stories will help children to understand that people have different view points and this can be used to build discussions and debates. Through speaking and listening, we hope to prepare children to establish positive relationships with the ability to communicate thoughts, feelings and ideas confidently and successfully.
