English – Speaking and Listening
Intent
Our intention is for children to:
- express their opinions, articulate feelings and listen to and respond appropriately in a range of situations;
- participate with different groups of children to present ideas with confidence, valuing the views of others;
- speak audibly and confidently before an audience (for example when leading in group, class and whole school situations, including taking part in the annual concert.)
Implementation
Approaches to teaching and learning encourage pupils to voice their ideas in small group and class discussions, as we recognise that sharing and explaining concepts with peers enhances learning. Staff model the use of higher level vocabulary within their speech and expanding children’s vocabulary is a key focus from EYFS. Subject specific vocabulary is embedded across the curriculum, through teacher modelling, in context. Contextual learning helps children to understand new words and supports them in including them in their work.
Reading sessions encourage pupils to explore unfamiliar vocabulary and expand their knowledge of words. Staff model correct grammar in speech and encourage children to reflect this in their use of spoken and written language. Children are given the chance to orally rehearse ideas for writing.
Drama is used across the curriculum to explore and engage children in their learning. This gives children the chance to embed vocabulary in shared activities.
Children in Reception, Years 1 and 2 also perform a Christmas production; Year 3 perform a production in the autumn term celebrating Festivals of Light; year 4 or 5 rehearse and perform a production at Easter; Year 6 perform at the end of the Summer Term. The whole school celebrates each year in Infant and Junior concerts in a local theatre. There are additional celebrations of events such as World Book Day and festivals such as Divali.
Impact
In a safe and encouraging environment, children develop into confident communicators who listen and speak, treating others with kindness and empathy and explaining with clarity and confidence. Children recognise that speaking and listening can lie at the heart of conveying character, and that through speaking and listening effectively, misunderstandings can be addressed and relationships enhanced.