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Guidance on implementation of the KS2 Framework for languages
Links with other subjects
Effective integration into other areas of the curriculum helps to make cohesive links between subjects, which can raise teachers' and children's motivation and make better use of their time.
Language learning should be planned as an integral part of the whole curriculum, adding a new dimension, rather than as a 'bolt-on' extra. The Framework exists to enable schools to build motivating and imaginative teaching plans and units, which deal with content of real interest and relevance to children. Planning for language learning should also fit in with schools' aims for the whole curriculum, building on the principles described in Excellence and enjoyment. To help in this process, examples of cross-curricular links are included in the on-line version of the Framework and will be in part 3 of the Framework documentation, Planning for entitlement.
Time and timetabling
Time allocation across the week should be sufficient to ensure that children have opportunities to interact with the language and for their learning to be properly reinforced. Children benefit from frequent opportunities to practise and assimilate newly presented language, and schools will ideally teach languages regularly throughout the week.
The Framework works on the basis that schools will plan for no less than 60 minutes per week of dedicated 'language time'. This might be divided into relatively short sessions, for example:
15 minutes per day;
3 x 20 minutes;
2 x 30 minutes plus one shorter session of 10 minutes.
1.25 In addition to this dedicated time allocation, teachers should seek opportunities during the week to enable children to use their newly acquired language skills. The curriculum offers opportunities throughout the day, planned or incidental, to reinforce language work, for example carrying out class routines. Teachers might also introduce some elements of the Framework (for example the knowledge about language strand) into general literacy work.
The duration and frequency of the sessions will depend on who is teaching the language. Primary class teachers will have more flexibility than visiting teachers.
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