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Communication

Communication, Language and Literacy.

In small and large groups, children listen attentively and talk about their experiences.

They use a growing vocabulary with increasing fluency to express thoughts and convey meaning to the listener. They listen and respond to stories, songs, nursery rhymes and poems. They make up their own stories and take part in role play with confidence.

Children enjoy books and handle them carefully, understanding how they are organised. They know that words and pictures carry meaning and that, in English, print is read from left to right and from top to bottom.

We can share books

They begin to associate sounds with patterns in rhymes, with syllables, and with words and letters. They recognise their own names and some familiar words. They recognise letters of the alphabet by shape and sound. In their writing they use pictures, symbols, familiar words and letters, to communicate meaning, showing awareness of some of the different purposes of writing. They write their names with appropriate use of upper and lower case letters.

In Upper Foundation children are encouraged to build upon their developing language skills.

They confidently interact with others, negotiate plans and activities and take turns in conversation. Under careful guidance, early reading skills will be developed and each child will be read a range of familiar and common words and simple sentences independently. The child will know that print carries meaning and will show an understanding of the elements of stories. During the year, most children will be reading at their own level and actively developing a love for books.

Children in Upper Foundation are introduced to French as a modern language and receive weekly tuition. The children are taught by a language specialist, and the lesson is fast paced with a strong emphasis on songs and rhymes.

French lessons are continued throughout the Infants and Junior School. Year 5 and 6 children enjoy a school trip to Paris where they are able to test their linguistic skills!