Languages

Literacy and English

“Literacy is fundamental to all areas of learning, as it unlocks access to the wider curriculum.  Being literate increases opportunities for the individual in all aspects of life, lays the foundations for lifelong learning and work, contributes strongly to the development of all four capacities of Curriculum for Excellence.”  CfE – Principles and Practice.

There are two main aspects of the languages area of the curriculum. The first aspect covers experiences and outcomes in the language a young person needs to engage fully in their learning and in society – whether that is English, Gaelic or, for young people who need additional support, the means of communication which enables them to communicate most effectively.  The second aspect covers experiences and outcomes in a modern language.  In St Patrick’s, Spanish is taught throughout the school.  Spanish words and phrases are used throughout the curriculum at all stages, and children learn through listening and talking, games and songs.  From P5-P7, our pupils also learn French.

Language is at the core of thinking.  We develop our ideas, communicate and reflect through language.  Language and the development of literacy skills help young people achieve their potential and become active members of society who can contribute through their ideas and work.  In St Patrick’s, we foster a love of reading.  Literature opens up new horizons, and a love of reading can be an important starting point for lifelong learning.  We have a range of books available to children in class and in the school library.  Talking and listening for thinking is developed across all stages in the school and is used in every curricular area.  The teaching of writing takes place within the area of language but also in many other curricular areas.