The Key Stage 2 Framework has been written very much with primary pedagogy and the primary curriculum in mind. It can be used as a basis for planning at all stages, as it indicates clearly how children can make progress in the key aspects of language learning, exemplified by the strands of the Framework.

An online training resource, the Training Zone section of this website available to support the introduction and development of primary languages in Key Stage 2. Time for discrete language work is essential, but linking work in languages to other subjects is motivating and effective, as it provides a real purpose for learning, in a familiar subject. You may be in a position to create your own scheme of work but there are also ready-made schemes available, for example from QCDA.

One of the most positive aspects of the primary languages initiative has been the collaboration between primary teachers and secondary language specialists who work together in the planning process and draw on each other’s strengths as they build a coherent language experience for the children.

Questions

- Is planning for primary languages different from other planning done for other curriculum areas in the primary school? If so, how?

- Are all five strands of the Key Stage 2 Framework integrated into your scheme of work or units of work for languages?

- What opportunities are there for you to link your languages planning with units of work from other curriculum areas?

Activity

Look at the planning section from the Key Stage 2 Framework Part 3, Section 2, pages 7-15 (pdf). In what ways are these plans similar to or different from your own plans?

Now look on page 11 where links are made with other curriculum subjects. Choose a year group and look at what topics will be covered during the following half term. Where are the opportunities for links with work in the new language? Create a mind map to show what skills will be developed across the curriculum.