1+2 Approach to Modern Languages

Wallacewell Primary uses the Scottish Governments 1+2 approach to modern languages.

  • L1 is mother tongue
  • L2 is the first foreign language – this is the language that is taken through to 3rd level in Broad General Education
  • L3 is the 2nd foreign language and this is done through master classes, themed weeks, conversation corners, planned learning and shorter discreet lessons

The L2 language at Wallacewell Primary is French for P1-P7. The L3 language is Scots.

French

  • When delivering a foreign language at early and first level, purpose, relevance, repetition and simplification are paramount.
  • The foreign language should be embedded in the daily routine.
  • Festivals in the foreign country provide an interesting backdrop for comparison of cultural customs but relevant follow-up practical activities will both reinforce the cultural aspect and recycle exposure to basic L2.
  • Topic led activities focusing on specific teaching points are better delivered by language specialists as they can deliver a richer language experience but the stand-alone nature of their lessons has a lesser impact on the learner.
  • Classroom practitioners are in a better position to deliver purposeful, relevant and consistent FL input. They also have the advantage of established effective relationships with the children that foster a better climate for Teaching and Learning in general.

P1-4 – L2 Acquisition

     Early level

  • T&L and conversational approaches are key priorities
  • Play-based approach in Primary 1 & Primary 2
  • French Planner

     First level (Primary 2-4)

  • Breadth & depth not dilution
  • A little language and often
  • Slowly and surely
  • Don’t sacrifice cultural content
  • It’s not just about words
  • French Planner

Second level

  • Discreet language lessons
  • T&L and conversational approaches are key priorities
  • French Planner

Scots

Scots is the ‘plus one’ language, as this is taught in the feeder secondary school. Children are taught cultural aspects and traditions of Scotland to enable a better understanding of the country in which they live.

EAL

EAL learners have their own language (L1) and English is (L2). Depending on their stage of development with the English Language will guide the teachers approach to learning a third language. EAL resources can be found in Our School-EAL folder.

Languagenut

The Languagenut programme can be used for a variety of languages. We use this platform to consolidate learning in French for Primary 5-7.

Mrs Johnson (Class Teacher) is our Modern Languages Coordinator and helps us to provide quality experiences of modern languages for our young people.