Spoken Language

Wentworth Primary School English Policy – Spoken Language

Intent

At Wentworth Primary School, we strongly believe in the importance of developing children’s spoken language skills across the curriculum.  Through a range of experiences, children will develop competency and confidence in spoken language and listening skills.  Children will be able to articulate their ideas clearly, using the appropriate grammar and vocabulary.  They will share ideas in pairs and groups, taking turns to speak and listen to others speaking.  They will have opportunities to present information in front of different audiences. 

Implementation

From EYFS through to Year 6, high quality modelling of speaking and listening skills will support pupils in developing their own understanding of language.  Teachers and teaching assistants will use skilful questioning to help pupils develop their understanding of different topics and support them to broaden their vocabulary (both understanding word meaning and using new words in the correct context).

In all lessons, regular opportunities are provided for pupils to discuss key concepts and share ideas in pairs, small groups and whole class discussions.  Children are taught to listen to their classmates’ ideas and to respond appropriately by questioning, challenging or elaborating on what has been said. 

In English lessons, teachers create word banks with pupils to help expand their vocabulary choices ahead of writing.  Children are taught to use dictionaries to look up the meaning of new vocabulary and to use thesauruses to develop their use of Tier 2 vocabulary.  In specific subjects, teachers provide word banks of Tier 3 vocabulary, encouraging pupils to use subject-specific vocabulary in their oral and written responses. 

In English lessons, opportunities are made for pupils to discuss books and share thoughts.  Drama and role play is used to help secure their understanding of a core text and to explore new ideas.  Before writing, pupils will have opportunities to practise saying sentences and texts orally.  They will share ideas with others and support each other in the writing process.

Each year, pupils will complete a ‘Mastery Homework’ task – an independent line of enquiry around a theme.  They will research and prepare their chosen topic at home before presenting their work to their class.  Teachers will use an assessment rubric to support pupils in developing their presentation skills over time.

During their time at Wentworth Primary School, pupils will have the opportunity to participate in a school play or presentation to parents.  This allows them to develop their spoken language skills for wider audiences.

Early intervention programmes have been set up to support pupils who are not developing their spoken language skills at an age-appropriate level.

 

Impact

Mastery Homework is assessed using the ‘Spoken Language Rubric’.  Feedback to pupils and parents gives clear feedback about their successes and next steps.

Pupils’ correct use of vocabulary is assessed through informal discussions, reading comprehension tasks and analysis of their independent writing.