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Spanish
Departmental approach to the curriculum
In MFL at Key Stage 3 we aim to develop literacy through the ability to use language effectively for purposes of practical communication. Spanish has been part of our curriculum offer since September 2023.
The study of languages provides an insight into the culture and civilisation of countries where the language is spoken. It promotes positive attitudes to speakers of foreign languages as well as a sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations. It supports an awareness of the nature of language and language learning.
The MFL curriculum aims to develop students’ understanding of themselves socially and in the context of an international environment as well as provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation.
All students are encouraged to form a sound base of the skills, language and attitudes required for further study and practical implementation as they move into Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 where the application of tenses and longer sentences as well as more complex grammar is crucial for success.
Year 7
When students arrive at Rickmansworth School they have had a variety of different experiences in relation to their learning of a Modern Foreign Language. Therefore, students are given the opportunity to learn French or Spanish and German in Year 7. Having 3 lessons a fortnight in each language they gain an insight into the basic language and cultures of the target language countries before deciding which language they would like to study, in the majority of cases, until GCSE. There is also the option to continue with both languages with one language being studied in twilight sessions in years 8 & 9.
As well as being introduced to the basic topics and grammatical rules, students have the option to become involved in the Ricky MFL Bake-Off and the European Day of Languages, the aims of which are to raise awareness of:
- Europe’s rich linguistic diversity, which must be preserved and enhanced;
- the need to diversify the range of languages people learn (to include less widely used languages), which results in plurilingualism;
- the need for people to develop some degree of proficiency in two languages or more to be able to play their full part in a globalised world.
Later in the year Year 7 learn about the importance of languages in society through the MFL Factor Enrichment day which culminates in an evening of celebration in March each year.
Year 8
In Year 8 students who have opted to study Spanish as their language build on their basic understanding of the key elements covered in year 7. This involves working on communicating in the past as well as the present tense and using a greater range of language to talk about their daily life.
The highlight of year 8 is the residential trip to the Barcelona. Students have the opportunity to visit the country, see the cultural differences as well as put the language they have learnt into practice.
Long Term Curriculum Overview
'The Big Picture' Curriculum Map
'The Big Picture' Curriculum Map
This document will provide a visual overview of the department's curriculum for Year 7. This is in a student-friendly format to support them in their understanding of the department's curriculum.
Assessment
Department Assessment Matrix
This document provides an overview for assessment for Year 7.
