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This sectionMFL Framework
Foreword
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MFL Framework

About the MFL Framework - Introduction

The Framework for teaching modern foreign languages: Years 7, 8 and 9 is the principal component within the Foundation Subjects MFL programme. This is located within the Foundation Subjects strand of the Key Stage 3 National Strategy. The Key Stage 3 Strategy is part of the Government's drive to improve standards in schools. It consists of several subject strands: English, mathematics, science, ICT, and Foundation Subjects (known originally as TLF - Teaching and learning in Foundation Subjects). Strands of work in other areas including behaviour are in hand.

In 2001 the decision was made to provide MFL with its own improvement programme, funded and delivered within the Foundation Subjects strand. The MFL Pilot - as this programme was then called - was launched in summer 2002. MFL consultants, appointed in 16 LEAs, were trained in the principles and content of the MFL Pilot and delivered this training to teachers in some 140 schools in those LEAs. Those teachers then began teaching lessons based on the Pilot to their Key Stage 3 classes in a programme designed to run from September 2002 to April 2003.

This Framework and other materials have been revised in the light of comments and suggestions from teachers and others involved in the Pilot programme, which proved extremely helpful. The help of those colleagues is gratefully acknowledged, as is that provided by key agencies including the Centre for Information on Language Teaching and Research (CILT) and the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA).

The rest of this section is designed to help teachers understand the nature and purpose of the MFL Framework, how it fits within the Key Stage 3 Strategy and how it relates to other key MFL documents, in particular the National Curriculum programme of study. The MFL Framework also forms part of the National Languages Strategy. Use of the Framework is not statutory, but Pilot schools have found it extremely helpful as a guide to strengthening MFL provision in schools and its use is recommended by the DfES.

In this and other documentation, this section will be referred to as the 'MFL Framework' to indicate that the reference is to its contents as a whole. This framework contains a set of teaching objectives set out in tables relating to each of the years of Key Stage 3. That section forms the core of this framework and its contents will be referred to as the 'Framework of objectives'. The abbreviation 'MFL' is used regularly for 'modern foreign languages'. The term 'Foundation Subjects MFL' is used to refer to the whole Key Stage 3 MFL subject package of Framework folder, training programme and training materials.

This framework contains guidance on how to use the Framework of objectives to inform planning and teaching and on issues to do with inclusion. A training programme and materials accompany this Framework and provide further guidance on its use and on teaching and learning in MFL.