spoken word

Intent

At Millfields we recognise the importance of developing our pupils' spoken language. Spoken Language underpins the development of reading and writing and permeates every aspect of our curriculum. The quality and variety of language that our pupils hear and speak are vital for developing their vocabulary and grammar and their understanding for reading and writing. As staff we ensure that we provide opportunities that continually develop our pupils' confidence and competence in spoken language and listening skills. They will develop their capacity to explain their understanding of books and share their ideas before they write. They will be assisted in clarifying their thinking through probing questions and to address any misconceptions. 

By the end of Year Six, all of our pupils will have been inspired by their participation in group and class discussions and debates. They will gain knowledge, skills and understanding associated with drama practices, such as role play and have had the opportunity to improvise, rehearse, refine, share and respond to drama and theatre performances.

Implementation

At Millfields we have created a range of opportunities that allow our children to develop their spoken language skills. Children are regularly encouraged to share their views in class and develop their listening skills so they can effectively communicate in a range of situations and to a range of audiences. They have the opportunity to work in groups of different sizes - pairs, small groups, larger groups as well as a whole class. 

As our pupils progress and develop their skills, they are able to take turns and participate more effectively and constructively in conversations and debates. At Millfields we focus on developing our pupils’ vocabulary; ranging from describing their immediate world and feelings to developing a broader, deeper and richer vocabulary to discuss abstract concepts and a wider range of topics, and enhancing their knowledge about language as a whole. Pupils regularly receive constructive feedback on their spoken language and listening. This not only improves their knowledge and skills but also establishes secure foundations for effective spoken language in their studies at Millfields, helping them to achieve in secondary education and beyond.

We have developed a progressive range of spoken language opportunities that allow our pupils to focus on developing key skills. These start in EYFS with star of the week and culminate in year 6 with the Rotary Public Speaking Competition.

Impact

When our pupils leave us at the end of year 6 we hope that they have achieved the ability to: 

● Speak confidently, audibly and effectively

● Use Standard English when the context and audience require it

● Work effectively in groups of different sizes and take on different roles, such as leading and managing discussions and reviewing and summarising

● Listen to and build on the contributions of others by asking questions to clarify and inform, and challenging courteously when necessary

● Plan for different purposes and audiences, including selecting and organising information and ideas effectively and persuasively for formal spoken presentations and debates

● Listen and respond in a variety of different contexts, both formal and informal, and evaluating content, viewpoints, evidence and aspects of presentation

● Improvise, rehearse and perform play scripts and poetry to generate language, discuss language use and meaning, use intonation, tone, volume, mood, silence, stillness and action to add impact

Spoken Word Leader - Mrs Rachel Smith

Spoken Word Link Governor - Mrs Katie Moore

Part of the Languages team.