The Kate Languages Podcast - S1 Ep5 - Designing an MFL Curriculum

Here is a summary of Season 1 Episode 5 of the Kate Languages Podcast, which was entitled "designing an MFL Curriculum". Click above to listen to the episode in full.

Introduction

As an MFL teacher, designing a curriculum can be a daunting task. With so many factors to consider, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. In this blog post, we'll explore the key elements of a successful MFL curriculum, drawing inspiration from the insights shared in The Kate Languages Podcast.

Start with the End in Mind

When designing a curriculum, it's essential to have a clear vision of your end goals. What do you want your students to know and be able to do by the end of Key Stage 3? This includes their vocabulary, grammar, cultural understanding, and language skills.

Balance Repetition and Depth

One of the most effective ways to help students learn a language is through repetition. However, it's important to avoid boring them with the same material over and over again. Instead, focus on strategically repeating key concepts throughout the program of study.

Additionally, it's better to go into depth with a few key topics rather than trying to cover a broad range of shallow topics.This allows students to develop a deeper understanding of the language and culture.

Content and Culture Integration

While textbooks can be a helpful resource, they should not be the sole focus of your curriculum. Supplement your textbook with additional materials that are relevant to your students' interests and experiences.

It's also crucial to integrate culture into your curriculum. This can be done through authentic texts, cultural activities, and discussions about the target language's history and traditions.

Making Languages Relevant and Enjoyable

To make language learning more engaging, it's important to make it relevant to students' lives. This can be done by connecting the language to their interests and experiences. For example, you could use authentic materials that are related to their hobbies or current events.

Additional Considerations

• Differentiation: Cater to students' individual needs by providing scaffolding and support for those who need it.
• Group Dynamics: Create a positive and supportive learning environment where students feel safe to take risks and make mistakes.
• Challenge with Low Threat: Design tasks that are challenging but achievable to boost student confidence.

Conclusion

Designing a successful MFL curriculum requires careful planning and consideration. By focusing on the key elements discussed in this blog post, you can create a learning experience that is engaging, effective, and enjoyable for your students.