The need to introduce pupils to learning languages at an early stage has been widely acknowledged with MFL set to become a core part of the primary curriculum. As schools seek to develop their offerings and make more effective foreign language provision, there is an urgent need for advice and guidance on best practice.

Now fully updated, Modern Foreign Languages 5-11 meets that need. This book brings together key pedagogical issues into one user-friendly guide that aims to help all practitioners to teach MFL as a dynamic, stand-alone subject yet retaining a cross-curricular focus. Practical ideas to help integrate effective language learning, teaching and assessment into the curriculum are combined with examples of best practice, revealing how you can turn pupils into enthusiastic, lifelong learners.

Written to support busy schools and teachers, this book contains advice on:

Using new technologies;

Utilising your lesson plans and schemes of work;

Language awareness and transferable skills;

Cultural learning;

Differentiation;

Motivation and learning across the curriculum;

The transition from primary to secondary.

With MFL at the forefront of all educational discussion, this timely book offers ideas and guidance to all BA, PGCE and MA students training to be MFL teachers and practising primary teachers who are looking to effectively run an MFL programme in their school.

Contents

Introduction – developments in primary MFL learning 1. Starting early – what do younger language learners do better? 2. Leading the way – the importance of a shared leadership approach 3. Planning and use of resources – doing the groundwork 4. Teaching the four skills – practical ideas and activities 5. Teaching approaches – differentiation, motivation and learning across the curriculum 6. Learner strategies and preferences – overcoming the ‘tricky bits’ 7. Assessment and monitoring progress: doing? What have I achieved? How can I progress? 8. ICT and language learning 9. Cultural learning – opening the classroom door and broadening horizons 10. Transition from primary to secondary – continuity, cohesion and progression 11. Training and professional development – establishing a community of learning and practice

Author Bio

Jane Jones is Senior Lecturer in Modern Foreign Languages Education at King’s College London.

Simon Coffey is Lecturer in Modern Languages Education at King’s College London.