The Middle School at Sevenoaks | Page 47

MODERN LANGUAGES

Aims The Modern Languages courses focus on developing students ’ ability to understand and communicate effectively in the target language as well as offering insights into the culture and civilisation of the countries where the language is spoken .
Skills Students develop four key skills : listening , reading , writing and speaking . We lay considerable emphasis on promoting our students ’ ability to speak and write accurately in the target language as well as to understand both native speakers and authentic texts . A sound command of grammar is an indispensable element in the four skills and an essential requirement for the study of languages beyond Year 11 .
Students will develop the ability to identify main points as well as details in a variety of types of spoken messages or texts . In speaking students will progress from transactional conversations to initiating and then developing conversations and discussions . In both speaking and writing students will build their capability to narrate events factually and imaginatively as well as express and justify their points of view .
Content The programme of studies explores areas of experience such as everyday activities , the world around us , personal and social life and the world of work . The course offers another dimension : the international world , which allows students to explore cultural aspects of the target language society and to keep up to date with current affairs in the countries where the language is spoken . It is designed to help students build the expected cultural knowledge for the study of IB language courses .
We do not expect students who are already fluent in a language to choose it as part of the curriculum although they might sit the exam in Year 11 .
Enrichment Spending time in the target-language country is of paramount importance . It gives a huge boost to students ’ confidence , particularly in their speaking and listening skills . Staying with a family as part of an exchange or a study trip is the most effective means of enhancing linguistic skills and of experiencing the culture .
Those who study French and Spanish will have the opportunity to participate in a French exchange in Year 10 . In Year 10 we offer study trips and exchanges for those students who study German , Spanish and Mandarin .
In addition to trips and exchanges there are various clubs for students to join , which all help to develop a wide range of skills .
THE MIDDLE SCHOOL | AT SEVENOAKS 45