Children can be introduced to learning a language in Reception and Key Stage 1.

During Key Stage 1, they may listen and respond to songs, rhymes and even familiar stories in the language being learned. The use of gesture and visual prompts can help them begin to understand the language. These approaches encourage active learning as children explore language together in games, songs and show what they know. These are good opportunities for those who are not confident enough to contribute orally to make contributions and develop confidence by watching others.

Learning a new language can also provide children in Key Stage 1 with a chance to learn about different countries and cultures. They can make simple comparisons between their own country and culture and others.

Registration time is a great opportunity to use greetings and for children to respond to simple questions about how they are. The materials in this section provide resources that could be used to introduce a modern foreign language within the classroom.