Spanish

Aims of the course

Teaching of Spanish as a modern foreign language in Year 9 builds on the foundations of language learning laid in Year 7 and 8.

l Focus on developing the breadth and depth of pupils’ competence in listening, speaking, reading and writing, based on a sound foundation of core grammar and vocabulary.

l Enable pupils to understand and communicate personal and factual information that goes beyond their immediate needs and interests, developing and justifying points of view in speech and writing, with increased spontaneity, independence and accuracy.

l Provide suitable preparation for further study.

Details of what the course involves

Grammar and vocabulary

l Identify and use tenses or other structures which convey the present, past, and future as appropriate to the language being studied.

l Use and manipulate a variety of key grammatical structures and patterns.

l Develop and use a wide-ranging and deepening vocabulary that goes beyond their immediate needs and interests, allowing them to give and justify opinions and take part in discussion about wider issues.

l Use accurate grammar, spelling and punctuation.

Linguistic competence

l Listen to a variety of forms of spoken language to obtain information and respond appropriately.

l Transcribe words and short sentences that they hear with increasing accuracy.

l Initiate and develop conversations, coping with unfamiliar language and unexpected responses, making use of important social conventions such as formal modes of address.

l Express and develop ideas clearly and with l Speak coherently and confidently, with increasingly accurate pronunciation and intonation.

l Read and show comprehension of original and adapted materials from a range of different sources, understanding the purpose, important ideas and details, and provide an accurate English translation of short, suitable material.

l Read literary texts in the language, to stimulate ideas, develop creative expression and expand understanding of the language and culture.

l Write prose using an increasingly wide range of grammar and vocabulary, write creatively to express their own ideas and opinions, and translate short written text accurately into the foreign language.

There is a separate course for native or near-native speakers. Details of this are available on request.

How will the course be assessed?

At KS3, pupils will be formally assessed at the end of each module. These assessments will include a mix of reading, listening, speaking and writing skills, the focus being on the content that has been covered during that half term. However, teachers will use ongoing formative assessment throughout all lessons to monitor the progress of the students within their class. At the end of the school year, students will sit an end of year exam.

Reading list and activities

l The Pearson Viva! Programme is supplemented by additional resources. All pupils have access to the online course material, Active Learn (www.pearsonactivelearn.com/) where they can reinforce and /or extend their learning in the language.

l www.wordreference.com/ (dictionary).

l www.quizlet.com (creates flashcards and vocabulary list).