We encourage students to use their intellectual curiosity to make linguistic connections. They apply their knowledge and skills in a range of contexts to communicate as a ‘brave, not perfect’ learner.
In your French classes you will gain a sound understanding of French vocabulary and grammar so that you have the confidence to communicate with other French speakers. You will also gain important, transferable skills through competing reading and listening exercises. However, learning French is more than just learning about linguistics. Developing an understanding of French culture, history and society is important too. That is why over your years at Coombe you will also find out more about French towns, artists, films and food!
Students have the opportunity to participate in numerous events during the school year. In September there is Languages Week when students get to explore different cultures and languages in more depth. Year 7 students all compete in the Spelling Bee, and we often have students going onto the national final. There is also the MFL art competition which asks students to create and describe a painting in French.
Parents can help their daughters in a number of ways: they can test them on their vocabulary when preparing for vocabulary tests, they can ensure that they spend sufficient time on their homework and they can encourage them to use dictionaries to help expand their vocabulary. They can also remind their daughters to proof read work carefully and to include a variety of tenses, time expressions and connectives.
There will be a range of resources and interactive websites for your daughter to engage with in order to promote independent study. The one we most commonly use is www.linguascope.com (the username and password can be obtained from a teacher). BBC Learning Zone is also advisable.
Please find below the main textbook that we use in the classroom:
Languages Week activities (the great MFL bake off, treasure hunts, etc)
Onatti plays
BFI study days
Penpal scheme
Year 10 / 12 trips to France
Kings’ College Wimbledon sessions for students aiming for grades 7-9
Year 8 Poetry Live competition
Curious
Creative
Confident