Preparatory Languages
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Spanish
The boys begin studying Spanish in Year 5. During this foundation year, the aim is to introduce the basic linguistic skills and vocabulary, necessary to cope with travelling in a Spanish speaking country. The syllabus is structured into 6 key topic areas: Personal Information, Finding the Way, Travel, At the Restaurant, Shopping, and Free-Time Activities. The teaching is largely oral- based and delivered in the target language. The four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing are used, and the course is designed to encourage the boys’ confidence and understanding as well as to introduce them to the culture of the Spanish speaking world.
In Year 6, the boys begin the Spanish Common Entrance course. The core of the syllabus is covered in Years 6 and 7, allowing time in Year 6 for reinforcement practice and extension work. The syllabus allows scope for considerable differentiation, and flexibility of teaching styles and tasks. The Department has established a series of end-of-unit tasks which boys complete during each year. In addition, every boy is expected to produce a termly cultural assignment (project) at the end of each term, using his ICT skills. This may take the form of producing a poster, an information Leaflet, an advertisement or a film review.
The 3 year course has been designed in accordance with the requirements of the Common Entrance and Scholarship Examinations and the requirements of the National Curriculum at Key Stage 3 in Modern Foreign Languages. The Schemes of Work is structured into ‘Topic Units’ where the appropriate vocabulary, and necessary verb structures and grammar are covered.
In Year 7 the boys are taught in 2 groups, and either follow the Common Entrance Course leading the Common Entrance Examination in Year 8, or follow an accelerated course leading to the Scholarship Examination.
French
The French Language Department at Chinthurst aims to ensure in every pupil the highest degree of confidence, fluency and enjoyment of foreign languages and cultures.
French is introduced in Year 3 and is taught through to Year 8 with a strong emphasis on the use of the target language where appropriate. Enthusiasm is achieved in the lower years through the use of songs and games and is maintained beyond these years via a wide range of resources, communicative activities and positive learning experiences.
In Year 6, pupils participate in their annual visit to France in order to practise and improve their linguistic skills in addition to achieving a better understanding of French people and their culture. Recent trips have included a sightseeing tour of Paris, a French immersion/activity holiday to Dijon, a stay at Le Château d’Ebblingham and visits to the Opal Coast.